Skip to main content Skip to search

About Us

Accounting. Business Planning. Management Consulting.

Operating with the Founder’s philosophy close at heart, we believe that a successful CPA and business consulting firm is more than just the numbers and the taxes. LB Carlson is a leading CPA and business consulting firm serving businesses throughout the Midwest from our Minneapolis and St. Cloud offices. After 40+ years, our professionals have helped clients across various industries like Manufacturing, Graphic Arts, Professional Services, and Contractors achieve their greatest goals. Beyond just the numbers and taxes, we provide forward-thinking solutions that are a reflection of your objectives developed in partnership with our experts who know your ambitions and care about your success.

We understand how important a strong CPA and business advisor is to your organization. Our full suite of services provides solutions for the complexities business owners face. From in-depth analysis and expert operational guidance, our professionals offer clients deep insights and experience through services that help them prosper.

A Personalized Approach

We take pride in the relationships that we build with our clients. We work hard to provide a personalized approach to become trusted advisors and your advocate for success. With industry expertise, proactive thinking, open lines of communication, and results-driven mindsets, there is no question why so many businesses choose LB Carlson!

We are always in tune with your business and available to be your sounding board. We’ll help answer any questions you have at a moment’s notice so that everything is taken care of for you when it matters most. Our year-round contact ensures long-term success!

The LB Carlson Difference

At LB Carlson, our commitment to superior client service in a fun work environment make us unique from other accounting firms. We work hard, but we also have fun while doing it, which allows us to attract and employ the best talent! We are proud of our firm culture and reputation with the community. Recently, LB Carlson was recognized among Twin Cities Business Journal’s Top 25 Accounting Firms in Minnesota.

Our low turnover and enjoyable work environment extend to our employees and clients alike. From firm leadership to support staff, the LB Carlson team is passionate about what we do. We share the same commitment to service and entrepreneurial spirit as our clients! We can’t wait to get to know you!

Who are we? Meet our team.

Leadership: Principals

Principal, Managing Partner Phone: 763-971-4823 Email: dkray@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities During Darren’s 30-year tenure at LB Carlson, he has developed a broad range of expertise assisting privately held companies in the graphic arts, manufacturing, nonprofit, and various other industries. Business Experience
  • Strong emphasis in management advisory services
  • Significant experience in the areas mergers and acquisitions, corporate and individual tax planning, employee benefit plan compliance, and business structuring issues
  • Successfully conducts multifaceted audits, reviews and compilations of companies with revenues ranging from $1 million to over $100 million
Interests & hobbies When Darren is not in the office, he enjoys hunting and fishing with his brothers and friends and spending time with his wife and children.  
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Industries: Graphic Arts & Printing, Manufacturing, Energy, Construction, Nonprofits

Darren Kray

Principal
LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, University of Minnesota Duluth
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Active member of the Printing Industry of Minnesota Financial Executive Forum
Responsibilities Mel is the president of LB Carlson. Mel's public accounting experience spans more than 30 years. During that time, Mel has become a specialist in assisting clients in the manufacturing, graphic arts and professional services industries. Business Experience
  • Provides management advisory services in business organization and long-term business planning
  • Has assisted numerous clients with mergers and acquisitions
  • Involved in traditional and nontraditional accounting, including entity planning and financing assistance
  • Assists business owners with a variety of tax and management consulting issues
  • Provides litigation support and expert testimony
  • Has conducted numerous seminars on forecasting, business planning and operations reviews
Interests & hobbies When Mel is not watching his sons play baseball, he’s most likely at a Minnesota professional sporting event. Whether the Vikings, Twins or the Wild, Mel will be watching. Mel is not only devoted to Minnesota sports; he is devoted to his clients, always going above and beyond.

Melvin Enger

Principal/President
Phone: 952-224-1635 Email: pradosevich@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BS in Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
Responsibilities Paul Radosevich is a co-founding partner of Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A. Since 1980, he has dedicated his services to meeting the unique accounting, tax, and consulting needs of a wide variety of closely held commercial businesses and individuals with an emphasis in the construction and real estate industries. For this clientele, Paul has advised on the various accounting issues and on the multiple levels of financial reporting required for their bonding and financing requirements. He also helps these organizations and individuals evaluate potential transactions involving sales, purchases, exchanges, and development initiatives by providing cost studies, tax implication analyses, and cash flow analyses. In addition, Paul has also served as an expert witness on accounting matters in legal cases and has provided clients with financial services such as auditing, accounting, and tax preparation. Business Experience
  • Audit, accounting, and tax work for a wide range of commercial and individual clients with an emphasis in the construction, catalog/retail, and manufacturing industries.
  • Audits of various nonprofit organizations, including churches, nursing homes, and homes and schools for the mentally impaired.
  • Audits of several Minnesota school districts, along with applicable federal financial assistance programs
  • Management consulting services, including:
    • Advocacy in communicating credit capacity to lending institutions, bonding agents, and sureties,
    • Internal control and accounting systems review and design,
    • Cash flow analyses and management,
    • Evaluation of profitability of work-in-process on a monthly/quarterly basis,
    • Evaluation of costing systems for estimating and reporting purposes,
    • Tax and estate planning, and
    • Business valuation.
Professional History
  • Previous: Principal – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota (1991-2024)
  • Previous: Partner – Pannell Kerr Forster, Minneapolis, Minnesota (1990–1991)
  • Previous: Senior Manager – Pannell Kerr Forster, Minneapolis, Minnesota (1987–1990)
  • Previous: Staff Manager – Johnson, Nelson & Co., Ltd. (1980–1987)
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Industries: Closely Held Businesses, Construction Companies, Nonprofits Organizations

Paul Radosevich

Principal
Phone: 952-224-1636 Email: tkarnowski@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BS in Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) (Inactive)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of Public Accountants (MAPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Taxpayers Association (MTA)
Responsibilities Thomas Karnowski is a co-founding partner of Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A. Since 1978, Tom experienced the intricacies of tax and accounting and has developed a keen expertise in overall tax minimization, business development and operations, and reporting-related issues of the nonprofit industry. Tom approaches each of his clients knowing that various avenues exist to meet their objectives, at which time, he consults with clients on each option's implications, considering both the organization's current needs and long-term goals. With his wealth of experience as an accountant and as the partner in charge of a national accounting firm's Minneapolis tax department, Tom was instrumental in the development of the tax, closely held business, and nonprofit departments of Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A. Business Experience
  • Extensive tax and accounting experience for a wide range of commercial and individual clients, with an emphasis on retail, manufacturing industries, and construction companies.
  • Tax planning, consulting, auditing, and accounting for various nonprofit organizations, including churches, nursing homes, homes and schools for the mentally impaired.
  • Tax, audit, and accounting for pension and profit-sharing plans.
  • Management Consulting services, including analysis of computer software, internal control and accounting systems review and design, cash flow analyses and management, tax and estate planning, and business valuation.
  • Responsible for quality control of all tax matters arising in the firm.
Professional History
  • Previous: Principal-in-charge of the Tax Department – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota (1991-2024)
  • Previous: Partner-in-charge of the Tax Department – Pannell Kerr Forster, Minneapolis, Minnesota (1990–1991)
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Industries: Closely Held Businesses, Construction Companies, Nonprofits Organizations

Thomas Karnowski

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4803 Email: rriesgraf@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Retired
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA), Retired
  • Active in Printing Industries of Midwest
Business Experience Rick is a former principal/shareholder of LB Carlson and has more than 40 years of public accounting experience serving clients in various industries but specializing in the graphic arts, manufacturing and transportation industries. Interests & hobbies Rick enjoys getting to know clients and staff and values those relationships beyond just business and work relationships. He strives to see the big picture and think about value-added opportunities in helping clients or teaching staff to go beyond expectations. His most important focus is his family and he treasures time with his wife and children. Rick enjoys his pets and is an avid hunter and fisherman.
Locations: Minneapolis & St. Cloud Industries: Graphic Arts & Printing, Manufacturing, Real Estate, Distribution, Construction, High Tech

Rick Riesgraf

Retired
Phone: 952-224-1626 Email: blauer@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BA in Accounting and Finance, University of St. Thomas. Magna Cum Laude
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Certificate of Educational Achievement Program in Governmental Accounting and Auditing
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)
  • Member of the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO)
  • Member of the Minnesota Government Finance Officers Association (MnGFOA)
  • Member of the Government Finance Officers Association of the U.S. and Canada (GFOA)
Responsibilities Since 1986, Bill Lauer has specialized in providing accounting, auditing, and consulting services for governmental organizations. His client base includes municipalities, school districts and governmental agencies, among others. Bill's focus in this sector enables him to provide clients with solutions that are thorough, tailored to their unique needs, and adhere to the latest governmental intricacies. Business Experience
  • Annual audits of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Audits of federal financial assistance programs of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Management consulting services, including internal control studies, budget development, operational and procedural reviews, debt service analysis, financial forecasts and projections, and implementation of new accounting and financial reporting standards.
  • Assists city clients to obtain and retain Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assists school district clients to obtain and retain Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
Professional History
  • Previous: Principal – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Previous: Senior Accountant – Pannell Kerr Forster, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, he enjoys travel, sports, and spending time with family and friends.
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Consulting Industries: Governmental

William Lauer

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4838 Email: ryounkers@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Business Experience
  • Partners with clients in mergers and acquisitions with an emphasis in tax aspects of these transactions
  • Supports and guides clients through audit process of various taxing authorities
  • Provides leadership and insight in corporate tax planning and compliance
  • Collaborates and strategizes with forecasting and operations reviews
  • Facilitates advisory services including but not limited to corporate and individual tax matters
  • Rob's extensive experience includes coordinating the audit and tax services for a $250 million corporation as an interim position in private industry.
Responsibilities Rob has over 25 years of accounting experience with medium to large privately held companies, offering services in management advisory and various attest and tax compliance. Interests & hobbies When Rob is not in the office, he’s spending time with his family and friends. He enjoys golfing, watersports, cycling and watching sports of almost any kind. Around the office Rob is known for his dedication to his clients, ability to provide positive and uplifting support to his colleagues and his eagerness to incorporate a bit of fun and laughter to even the most mundane tasks.
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Accounting Services, Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services Industries: Graphic Arts & Printing, Manufacturing, Medtech, Real Estate, Construction, Distribution

W. Robert Younkers

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4819 Email: djohnson@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, Minnesota State University, Moorhead
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP)
  • Certified Client Accounting Advisory Services Professional (CAAS)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Certified Information Technology Professional section of the AICPA
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities Dea has over 30 years of experience related to closely held, for-profit businesses, focusing on consulting with management teams, income tax planning and preparation, merger and acquisition consulting, special projects, and implementation of accounting systems. Business Experience
  • Experienced in financial management and forward planning including budgeting and cash flow modeling, tax calculations and modeling, strategic planning, and board support
  • Resource for start-up through mature closely held companies regarding organization and process consulting, accounting training and support, and tax compliance and representation
  • Provide forecasting, planning, and consulting on mergers and acquisitions including structure and tax options
  • Support the industries of manufacturing, construction, and distribution with costing and inventory management
  • Participate on a variety of management teams
  • Mentor, train, and resource to controllers
  • Contract CFO experience
Interests & hobbies Dea has been involved with many volunteer and community service groups including Andover Husky Youth Hockey Association, New Brighton Stockyard Days, and the School Advisory Commission and the Pastoral Leadership Council of St John the Baptist Church and School. Dea and her family also frequently participate in Feed My Starving Children and support HOPE 4 Youth. When Dea is not in the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two adult children.  Her hobbies include following the Minnesota Wild, working in her garden, fishing, photography, travel, and enjoying a nice glass of wine with friends.  
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Accounting Services, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services, Merger/Acquisition Consulting, Workflow/ERP Systems Industries: Manufacturing, Medtech, Distribution, Construction and Real Estate

Dea Johnson

Principal
Phone: 952-224-1628 Email: jeichten@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • BA in Accounting, University of St. Thomas
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)
  • Member of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO)
  • Member of the Minnesota Chapter of Government Finance Officers Association (MnGFOA)
Responsibilities Since the start of his career in 1989, Jim Eichten has specialized in providing accounting, auditing, and consulting services for clients in governmental and nonprofit organizations. During this time, Jim has provided service to a variety of institutions, helped organizations earn and retain industry certifications, and consulted on financial management issues. In each of these situations, and for every client project, his focus is to provide solutions that are thorough, tailored to clients' unique needs, and that adhere to the most stringent standards. Business Experience
  • Annual audits of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Audits of federal financial assistance programs of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Management consulting services, including internal control studies, operational and procedural reviews, cash flow projections, and revenue projections.
  • Assists city clients to obtain and retain Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assists school district clients to obtain and retain Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assistance in the development of audit manuals for cities, school districts, fire reliefs, and federal financial assistance programs.
  • Audits of nonprofit organizations mainly charter schools.
Professional History
  • Previous: Managing Partner – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Previous: Senior Accountant – Pannell Kerr Forster, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Interests & Hobbies – Travel, spectator sports, and bird watching. When not in the office, he enjoys golf, skiing, hiking, family, and being a grandpa.
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Consulting Industries: Governmental

Jim Eichten

Principal
Phone: 763-535-8150 Email: dpolfliet@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities Dawn has 30 years of experience in tax planning, attest and consulting services for privately held businesses. She has specialty training and emphasis on business valuations for gift and estate planning, shareholder transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and litigation support including expert witness testimony. Business Experience
  • Extensive business valuation experience
  • Has conducted audits, reviews and compilations of companies with revenues from $2 million to $150 million including multi-entity consolidations
  • Provides assistance with forecasting and operation reviews
  • Conducts overhead rate studies for job costing purposes
  • Works with clients on many corporate and individual tax matters
  • Provides CFO services for clients on an interim basis
Interests & hobbies When Dawn is not in the office, she enjoys spending time with family and dreaming of their next travel adventure. She also enjoys the outdoors and gardening.  
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting Industries: Graphic Arts & Printing, Manufacturing

Dawn Polfliet

Principal
Phone: 952-224-1627 Email: anielsen@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BS in Accounting, Southwest State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)
  • Member of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO)
  • Member of the Minnesota Chapter of Government Finance Officers Association (MnGFOA)
Responsibilities Aaron Nielsen specializes in meeting the unique accounting needs of school districts, municipalities, and other governmental entities. His previous professional experience as an Assistant Director of Business Services for a school district brings him deep insight into this clientele's specific needs and operations. Parlaying this understanding to professional accounting, Aaron has conducted audits of these groups, including those required for their associated federal financial assistance programs. He has also helped this clientele in budget development, operational reviews, cash flow projection, process evaluation, and audit manual development. In addition, Aaron has also conducted commercial audits, compiled tax returns, and performed monthly compilations. Business Experience
  • Annual audits of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Audits of federal financial assistance programs of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Management consulting services, including revenue projection review, budget development, operational reviews, cash flow projections, management negotiations costing, and management processes.
  • Assists city clients to obtain and retain Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assists school district clients to obtain and retain Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assistance in the development of audit manuals for cities, school districts, fire reliefs, and federal financial assistance programs.
  • Audits of various nonprofit organizations, including charter schools, nursing homes, churches, and educational foundations.
  • Annual audits of commercial entities, including preparation of tax returns and monthly compilations.
Professional History
  • Previous: Principal – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Previous: Assistant Director of Business Services – ISD No. 197, West Paul
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, he enjoys gatherings with family and friends. Aaron also appreciates spending time at the lake, fishing, golfing, enjoying nice meals, and going to live events (comedy shows, the theater, Minnesota sporting events, concerts).
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Consulting Industries: Governmental

Aaron Nielsen

Principal
Phone: 952-224-1632 Email: vholinka@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BS in Accounting, University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
  • Member of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
Responsibilities Vicki Holinka works extensively with closely held businesses meeting the unique accounting needs of construction, manufacturing and distribution, commercial, and nonprofit organizations. She specializes in strategic planning, management consulting, financial reporting systems, and tax and accounting services, as well as implementation and development of job costing tools. Vicki works closely with business owners to provide assistance in all aspects of daily operations and computer conversion issues, and to provide a bridge between financial planning and individual tax planning. Vicki also specializes in ERISA limited scope audits of employee benefit plans of privately held businesses. Business Experience
  • Audit, accounting, and tax work for a wide range of commercial and individual clients with an emphasis in the construction, distribution, and service industries.
  • Audit, accounting, and tax work for various nonprofit organizations including churches and business leagues.
  • Limited scope audit, accounting, and tax work for employee benefit plans including defined contribution 401(k) and employee stock ownership plans.
  • Management consulting services including internal control and accounting systems review and design; cash flow projections and analysis; cash management; and costing systems for estimating and reporting purposes.
  • Audits of Minnesota school districts, along with applicable federal financial assistance programs.
Professional History
  • Previous: Partner – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A, Minneapolis, Minnesota (1997-2024)
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events.  
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Industries: Closely Held Businesses, Construction Companies, Nonprofits Organizations, Employee Benefit Plans

Victoria Holinka

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4831 Email: dloch@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Provides year-end, tax and consulting services with an emphasis on managing year-end engagements for medium to large privately held companies in a variety of industries.
  • Coordinates all attest services work throughout the year.
  • Committed to managing staff and providing great service to his clients.
Business Experience
  • Dan started with the firm as an intern in 2005 and became a principal in 2019.
  • During his years in public accounting, Dan has developed a wide range of skill sets including assisting clients with forecasting, overhead rate studies, valuations, compensation design, tax planning, and other management advisory and tax services.
Interests & Hobbies Dan enjoys spending time at his cabin in Longville and likes to stay active participating in a variety of sports including fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, golfing, bowling, and biking to name a few. He also enjoys do-it-yourself home improvement projects and spending time with his wife, Steph, and Great Dane, Dice.
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Accounting Services, Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, and Tax Industries: Healthcare, Manufacturing, Distribution, and Graphic Arts

Daniel Loch

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4814 Email: jhenley@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, University of South Dakota
  • M.B.T., University of Minnesota – Carlson School of Management
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the Tax Practice Section and S Corporation Subcommittee of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities Joel has over 30 years of experience assisting businesses in complex areas of tax law. He worked at two international accounting firms for 13 years prior to joining LB Carlson. Joel spends most of his time consulting with clients, partners and staff regarding complex tax situations. He resolves tax controversies, structures acquisitions and sales, and assists in business successions. Joel also has many years of involvement with the compliance aspects of the tax practice. Business Experience
  • Extensive experience in entity structuring (LLCs, LLPs, S versus C corporations)
  • Heavy history with leasing industry
  • Involved in specialized tax issues involving PEOs
  • Partnership specialization, involving equity, allocations, bifurcations, liquidations
  • Experience in negotiating terms and tax consequences in acquisitions and sales of businesses
  • Assists families in transferring businesses and assets to next generations, in turbulent times of economics and law
  • Resolves tax controversies with state and federal agencies
  • Represents taxpayers in tax collection matters
  • Coordinates ownership and compensation controversies involving partners or shareholders
  • Deep experience with real estate tax matters involving owners, investors and developers, foreclosures and short sales, passive activity and at risk rules
  • Heavily involved in tax consequences involving companies contemplating bankruptcy or emerging from bankruptcy
  • Much interest in estate planning, taxation matters, acquisition and ownership succession planning
  • Significant international tax planning experience, FATCA specifically involving Ireland
  • Structured energy investments, including oil and gas, wind, and biofuels
  • Experienced in compensation planning for executives
  • Oversees tax accrual calculations under ASC 740, as evolved from SFAS 109 and FIN 48 for several companies
  • Assists in developing sales tax positions and settling sales and use tax controversies
  • Assisted the printing industry in successfully changing Minnesota sales tax laws for the benefit of the industry
  • Has spoken on numerous occasions to various industry groups on tax issues
  • Has published articles on tax issues and participated in authoring a book on real estate transactions
Interests & hobbies When Joel is not in the office, he's often trying to keep fit and attempting to keep up with his daughter and wife in their involvement with Special Olympics of Minnesota. One of his favorite pastimes is sailing. He has several ASA certifications, competitively skippers an I-20 Scow and is a member of the Minnetonka Yacht Club and Wayzata Yacht Club.  
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Accounting Services, Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services Industries: Graphic Arts & Printing, Manufacturing, Real Estate

Joel Henley

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4826 Email:  mniznik@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.A., Accounting, St. John’s University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Active Board Member for the Foundation for Essential Needs (FFEN), serving as Treasurer
  • Chaired the Public Relations Committee of the MNCPA, where, under his leadership, the committee received an outstanding committee award
Responsibilities Mike is a partner with LB Carlson and is part of the Impact Division. Prior to joining our firm, Mike worked with national and regional accounting firms. Business Experience
  • Major experience consists of federal and state tax compliance for individuals, partnerships, S corporations, estates, trusts, and nonprofit entities
  • Assists in resolving federal and state tax controversies
  • Assists closely-held businesses and individuals with complex areas of tax law including entity structuring
  • Specializes in matters involving unrelated business income pertaining to nonprofit organizations
  • Works with clients on deferred compensation arrangements
  • Helped develop the firm's Estate Practice
  • Income & Estate planning for high net worth individuals
Interests & hobbies Many of Mike's clients have been with him for close to 30 years. He places high value on quality client service and building client relationships. When Mike is not focusing on his clients, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children and the family dog. Don't be surprised if you hear him humming the latest country song, although his vast knowledge of popular music can be credited to his children. This, however, goes both ways, as his children have been known to hum a song from the 1970s or 1980s. Mike also enjoys a night at Target field watching a Twins game.
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Accounting Services, Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services Industries: Real Estate

Michael Niznik

Principal
Phone: 952-224-1638 Email: jhuegel@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BA in Accounting and Management, St. Mary’s University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)
  • Member of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO)
  • Member of the Minnesota Chapter of Government Finance Officers Association (MnGFOA)
  • Member of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)
Responsibilities Jackie Huegel specializes in meeting the unique accounting, auditing, and consulting needs of school districts, municipalities, and other governmental entities. Jackie has conducted audits of these groups, including those required for their associated federal financial assistance programs. Jackie has also conducted commercial audits, compiled tax returns, and performed monthly compilations. Business Experience
  • Annual audits of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Audits of federal financial assistance programs of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Management consulting services, including budget development, operational reviews, cash flow projections, management negotiations costing, and management processes.
  • Assists city clients to obtain and retain Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assists school district clients to obtain and retain Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assistance in the development of audit manuals for cities, school districts, fire reliefs, and federal financial assistance programs.
  • Audits of various nonprofit organizations, including charter schools, nursing homes, churches, and educational foundations.
  • Annual audits of commercial entities, including preparation of tax returns and monthly compilations.
Professional History
  • Previous: Principal – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. She also enjoys traveling and spending time at the cabin.
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Consulting Industries: Governmental

Jaclyn Huegel

Principal
Phone: 952-224-1637 Email: kkarnowski@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BS in Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities Kalen Karnowski specializes in providing audit, tax and accounting services to clients in a variety of industries, including the hospitality industry, construction contractors, professional service firms, manufacturers, and nonprofit organizations, with a focus surrounding mergers and acquisition. Kalen works extensively with both complex equity structured businesses and closely held businesses with strategic planning, management consulting, financial reporting systems, and tax and accounting services, as well as performing evaluation and due diligence services and reporting needs for potential target acquisitions. Kalen also works closely with businesses that are implementing, or have implemented, employee stock ownership plans (ESOP) at both a corporate level and a plan level. Kalen also specializes in ERISA full scope ESOP and ERISA Sec. 103(a)(3)(C) audits for 401(k) plans for privately held businesses. In addition to providing client services, Kalen is actively involved in the hiring, development, and training of firm personnel. Business Experience
  • Extensive tax, accounting, and audit experience for a wide range of commercial and individual clients, with an emphasis on hospitality industries, construction companies, and manufacturers.
  • Management consulting services including internal control and accounting systems review and design, cash flow projections and analysis, cash management, and analysis of computer software.
  • Audit, accounting, and tax work for employee benefit plans including defined contribution 401(k) and employee stock ownership plans
Professional History
  • Previous: Principal – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A, Minneapolis, Minnesota (2015-2024)
  • Previous: Manager – Boulay Group, PLLP, Eden Prairie, Minnesota (2006-2015)
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, he enjoys adventures with his family, exercising, and golfing.  
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Industries: Closely Held Businesses, Developers, Construction Companies, Nonprofits Organizations, Employee Benefit Plans

Kalen Karnowski

Principal
Phone: 763-971-4850 Email: sbohn@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities Over 20 years of experience in business and individual income tax consulting, large multi-state corporation tax returns, mergers and acquisitions, and estate planning. Steve also leads the charge within the firm on its process improvement initiatives and staff development. Business Experience:
  • Industry focuses include professional services firms, manufacturing, real estate, and health services.
  • Experience assisting companies in entity organization, reorganization, mergers and acquisitions, and liquidation matters
  • Experience assisting clients with preparation or review of ASC 740 (FAS 109) calculations for publicly traded and privately held corporations
  • Manages tax compliance for publicly traded and privately held corporations, partnerships and subchapter S corporations
  • Tax compliance and complex tax planning for individuals and trusts
  • Represents taxpayers in IRS and state controversies
  • Steve was recently featured in a book entitled Summit to Retirement: Finding Success on Your Financial Trek.
Interests & hobbies When Steve is not hard at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, dog and extended family as well as hunting, fishing, golfing and many other outdoor activities.  
Locations: Minneapolis Services: Business Planning, Tax Services Industries: Graphic Arts & Printing, Manufacturing, Real Estate, Energy

Steven Bohn

Principal
Phone: 320-203-0254 Email: mbranson@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Education
  • B.S., Accounting, Metropolitan State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Provides business and tax consulting to small business clients across the real estate, manufacturing, construction, professional services industries.
Business Experience
  • 10 plus years in public accounting
  • Construction management
  • Small business consulting and tax planning
  • Individual tax planning
  • QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Interests & Hobbies Mark enjoys his time away from the office with his family, coaching and playing sports, volunteering for Boy Scouts of America and church, and doing projects around the house.
Locations: St. Cloud Services: Accounting Services, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services Industries: Manufacturing, Real Estate, Construction, Restaurant

Mark Branson

Principal
BIO COMING SOON......      
 

David Bartlett

Principal
Education
  • B.S., Accounting, Minnesota State University – Mankato, Magna Cum Laude
  • B.S., Finance-Corporate, Minnesota State University – Mankato, Magna Cum Laude
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Matt has 13 years of public accounting experience serving medium to large privately held companies, many of which are in the graphic arts, manufacturing, oil & gas, transportation, and professional service industries.
Business Experience
  • Manages numerous multifaceted audits, reviews and compilations of companies with revenues from $1 million to $150 million
  • Assists clients with forecasting and operation reviews
  • Provides CFO and Controller services for clients on an interim and annual basis
  • Oversees and leads SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC 3 engagements
  • Assists clients with complex areas of tax compliance including pass-through entities, mergers and acquisitions, and multi-state taxation.
  • Supports and guides clients through examinations from various taxing authorities.
Interests & Hobbies When Matt is not working in the office, you can usually find him enjoying a variety of sports or working out. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, Katie and Blake.

Matt Wills

 Principal
Phone: 763-531-5323 Email: jpierce@lbcarlson.com Education
  • B.S., Accounting, St. Cloud State University
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Account (CPA)
  • Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Joleen has over 20 years of tax experience assisting privately held companies with tax compliance and various consulting services.
Business Experience
  • Provides federal and tax compliance for C corporations, S corporations, partnerships, individuals and trusts
  • Offers perspective, knowledge and analysis with entity structuring and mergers and acquisitions
  • Performs business and individual tax planning and consulting to facilitate an effective decision-making process for clients
  • Represents clients before the IRS and state taxing authorities
Interests & hobbies Joleen enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids when she’s away from the office. She loves to watch her kids play hockey, gymnastics and golf. She also volunteers at church, loves fishing for walleye and attending music concerts.
Services: Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services

Joleen Pierce

Principal

Leadership: Managers

Education
  • B.S., Accounting, MSU Mankato
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Bridgette has been with the firm for over 11 years and is a tax and audit manager at LB Carlson. Bridgette has a broad range of expertise assisting privately held companies in the graphic arts, manufacturing, real estate, transportation, and various other industries.
Business Experience
  • Focuses in tax compliance, and assurance and attest services
  • Manages numerous audits, reviews, and compilations of companies with revenues from $1 million to $50 million.
  • Consults with clients on complex corporate and individual tax planning and compliance
  • Assists clients with forecasting and operation reviews
  • Has experience with multi-state corporate tax filings
Interests & Hobbies When Bridgette is not working in the office, she is spending time with family and friends. She enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors hiking, biking, or on the lake during summer days.

Bridgette Janni

Manager
Education
  • B.S., Accounting, MSU Mankato
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Logan has been with the firm for over 8 years and is an attest manager at LB Carlson. He has a broad range of expertise providing attest, tax, and consulting services to privately held companies in construction, graphic arts, manufacturing, and various other industries.
Business Experience
  • Focuses in attest services and business consulting.
  • Manages numerous audits, reviews, and compilations of companies with revenues from $1 million to $150 million.
  • Manages SOC 1, SOC 2 examinations for companies in graphic arts, debt collection, information processing, and various other industries.
  • Consults in M&A deals with LB Transitions, representing buy and sell-side transactions.
  • Consults with clients on complex financial matters, including contract controller/CFO duties.
  • Assists clients with forecasting and operation reviews.
Interests & Hobbies When Logan is not working, he is making memories with his wife and two young kids. He spends his precious free time on his boat fishing for muskies, in the woods hunting in the fall, or camping with the family.

Logan Baumann

Manager
Phone: 952-224-1663 Email: jdickman@lbcarlson.com Education
  • Bachelor of Accounting, University of North Dakota
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)
  • Member of the Minnesota Chapter of Government Finance Officers Association (MnGFOA)
Responsibilities Jennifer Dickman specializes in meeting the unique accounting needs of school districts, municipalities, and other governmental entities. Jennifer has conducted audits of these groups, including those required for their associated federal financial assistance programs. Jennifer has also conducted commercial and non-profit audits, compiled tax returns, and performed monthly compilations. Business Experience
  • Annual audits of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Audits of federal financial assistance programs of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Assists city clients to obtain and retain Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assists school district clients to obtain and retain Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assistance in the development of audit manuals for cities, school districts, fire reliefs, and federal financial assistance programs.
  • Audits of various nonprofit organizations, including charter schools, nursing homes, churches, and educational foundations.
  • Annual audits of commercial entities, including preparation of tax returns and monthly compilations.
Professional History
  • Previous: Senior Manager – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota
Interests and Hobbies When not in the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, travel, cabin trips, and supporting her children in their adventures.  
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Consulting Industries: Governmental

Jennifer Dickman

Manager
Education
  • B.S., Accounting, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities
  • Megan has been with the firm for over 6 years and is a tax manager at LB Carlson. Megan has a broad range of expertise working with closely held, for-profit businesses many of which are in the graphic arts, manufacturing, transportation, and various other industries.
Business Experience
  • Assists closely-held businesses through complex areas of tax compliance including pass-through entities and multi-state taxation.
  • Manages numerous tax engagements of companies with revenues from $1 million to $100 million.
  • Supports and guides clients through audit process of various taxing authorities
  • Experienced with estate, trust, and gift tax filings.
  • Consults with clients on complex corporate and individual tax planning and compliance
  • Experienced in filing multi-state corporate tax returns
Interests & Hobbies When Megan is not working in the office, she is spending time with family and friends. She enjoys yoga, knitting, and many outdoor activities including hiking and bonfires.

Megan Blomberg

Manager
Bio coming soon.

Tara Gaibor

Manager
Phone: 952-224-1630 Email: slanger@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BA in Accounting and Finance, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
Responsibilities Spencer Langer works extensively with closely held businesses meeting the unique accounting needs of construction, manufacturing and distribution, hospitality, commercial, and nonprofit organizations. He specializes in financial reporting systems, and accounting and attest services. Spencer works closely with business owners and accounting personnel in all aspects of daily operations, providing clients with financial services such as auditing, accounting, and tax preparation. Spencer has also conducted audits of governmental entities, including school districts and municipalities. Business Experience
  • Audit, accounting, and tax work for a wide range of commercial and individual clients with an emphasis in the construction, hospitality, and service industries.
  • Audit, accounting, and tax work for various nonprofit organizations including churches and business leagues.
  • Limited scope audit, accounting, and tax work for employee benefit plans including defined contribution 401(k) and employee stock ownership plans.
  • Management consulting services including accounting assistance and internal control and accounting systems review and design.
Professional History
  • Previous: Senior Manager – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A, Minneapolis, Minnesota (2014-2024)
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, he enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, golfing, and fishing.  
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Industries: Closely Held Businesses, Construction Companies, Nonprofits Organizations, Employee Benefit Plans

Spencer Langer

Manager
Phone: 763-971-4846 Email: dwahl@lbcarlson.com LinkedIn Professional Credentials
  • QuickBooks Pro Advisor
Responsibilities
  • Fractional Controller for small businesses
  • Staff and client trainer on various accounting software including QuickBooks, Sage, and MAS90.
  • Provide Tax and consulting services
  • Quarterly and year-end tax filings for corporations, partnerships, individual and non-profit entities.
  • Client Management
Business Experience
  • Dee has over 25 years of accounting experience with a variety of roles, 401k Administration, Accounting Software Implementation, and Accounting Services prior to her client management and controller role. Her client base includes a variety of industries and entity types from startup to entity end of life and succession. Her background also included Operations Officer at a local bank.
Interests & Hobbies Away from the office, Dee enjoys spending time with kids, grandkids and extended family and friends, travel, boating, and gardening. She has always been known in the office for her commitment to her clients and being a resource for her co-workers as well as to her clients.
Location: Minneapolis Services: Accounting Services, Business Planning, Management Consulting, Tax Services, Contract Controller

Dee Wahl

Manager
Phone: 952-224-1672 Email: zjohnson@lbcarlson.com Education
  • BA in Accounting and Minor in Finance, University of Minnesota – Duluth
Professional Credentials
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA)
  • Member of the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)
Responsibilities Zeke has specialized in providing accounting and auditing services for governmental and nonprofit organizations. He specializes in meeting the unique needs of school districts, municipalities, and other governmental entities. Zeke has conducted many audits of these groups, including those required for their associated federal financial assistance programs. Business Experience
  • Annual audits of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Audits of federal financial assistance programs of Minnesota school districts, municipalities, and various other governmental entities.
  • Assists city clients to obtain and retain Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assists school district clients to obtain and retain Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
  • Assistance in the development of audit manuals for cities, school districts, fire reliefs, and federal financial assistance programs.
Professional History
  • Previous: Manager – Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota
Interests & Hobbies When not in the office, he enjoys spending time with friends and family, golfing around the State, attending car shows, and working on home renovation projects.  
Location: Minneapolis Services: Assurance & Attest, Consulting Industries: Governmental

Zekeill Johnson

Manager
Bio coming soon.

Phil Kuehne

Manager

Community Involvement

Feed My Starving Children is a nonprofit Christian organization committed to feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit. The approach is simple: children and adults pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children and we ship the meals to nearly 70 countries.

View our photos from our Community Involvement