Built on Purpose, Grown through Generations
In 1980, Stephen (Steve) Waechter entered the financial planning world with a mission rooted in personal experience. After witnessing his mother struggle through financial hardship and mistreatment from an insurance company following the sudden loss of his father, Steve committed himself to learning everything he could about insurance and finance. His goal was simple but powerful: to protect and educate everyday people so they could make informed, empowered decisions.
While Steve built his practice, his daughter, Sophia Lanting, grew up immersed in the values of service, education, and integrity. In 2007, she formally joined him in business, bringing her own passion for helping people align their financial lives with their personal values. Together, they formed a powerful team—blending experience with fresh perspective.
In 2018, they gave their shared vision a name: Intrinsic Financial Design Group. That same year, Sophia stepped into the lead role as Steve began his transition into retirement. Their firm was founded on a belief in lifelong relationships, collaboration, and a deep respect for each client’s intrinsic motivations.
Today, Intrinsic Financial Design Group is a predominantly woman-led, mom-run firm—a rarity in the financial industry. We are a team of caring professionals who walk alongside our clients through life’s changes, helping them stay grounded in what matters most. By collaborating with the other professionals in our clients’ lives and staying active in our community, we ensure that every plan we build is as personal as it is practical.
You’ll often find us volunteering with clients at the Weld Food Bank, supporting local nonprofits, or staying sharp through professional organizations like the Colorado Financial Planning Association, Women of Commonwealth, and the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® community.
Today. Tomorrow. Together.
