16 Oct Employee Story Spotlight: Austin Kaufmann
We love the opportunity to celebrate the lives and the stories of our employees. This month, we’re learning more about Austin Kaufmann, Associate Client Services Representative.
A Heart for Service and a Mind for Stewardship
From a young age, Austin learned that service is the most meaningful way to connect with others. Growing up in Concordia, Kansas, his local church and mission trips to Mexico taught him the power of relationship-centered work, the kind that meets both material and spiritual needs. Those experiences left a lasting impression, giving him perspective on true poverty and inspiring him to live with gratitude and purpose.
“My time in Mexico opened my eyes to how rich life can be when people live with faith and community. It made me want to serve others in a way that points back to something greater.” —Austin
From the Teller Window to Trusted Relationships
Austin’s professional journey began in high school when he worked as a part-time teller at his hometown bank. Handling real money and real customers as a teenager taught him responsibility, but more importantly, the relational side of finance. He discovered how a warm conversation could calm nerves and build trust, even across the counter.
Those lessons followed him to Kansas State University, where he studied Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and held several customer service roles. Whether helping parents understand complex federal aid regulations or guiding students through financial processes, he learned that the client does not always need to be right. They need to understand.
That mindset, leading with clarity, care, and communication, continues to shape his approach today.
A Season of Learning and Growth
Austin joined StoryOne in March 2025, eager to serve families and learn from a team that models stewardship and integrity. In his role as Associate Client Services Representative, no two days look the same. He might be opening accounts, moving money, processing paperwork, or ensuring every client interaction reflects the StoryOne standard of excellence.
Looking ahead, Austin plans to pursue his CFP® certification, seeing it as an important step toward becoming an advisor and deepening his ability to help families steward their wealth with wisdom and purpose.
“I’m grateful to be part of the team in this season of growth. My goal is to keep learning as much as I can.” —Austin
Faith, Mentorship and Community
Outside the office, Austin’s life is full of connection and adventure. He’s active in Shawnee RPC, where his young adult group recently studied the Sermon on the Mount and took a reflective hiking trip through Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo mountains.
“Spending time in God’s creation while reflecting on His Word gave us space to grow spiritually together. It was a reminder that faith isn’t just studied, it’s lived.”
Austin also finds community through swing dancing, a college hobby that continues to bring joy and friendships to this day. Whether dancing in a Tennessee barn or playing sand volleyball with friends in Kansas City, he thrives in moments of laughter and shared experience.
Mentorship is another anchor in his life. He regularly meets with older men in his church to seek wisdom and perspective, a rhythm that keeps him grounded as he navigates career and calling.
“The advice to seek out a mentor has been the most meaningful to me. Never be afraid to ask someone to coffee. People rarely say no, and you’ll always walk away with something to learn.” —Austin
Building a Life of Purpose
For Austin, every step, from teller windows to mountain summits, is part of a larger story of stewardship, service, and faith. His calm presence, curiosity, and commitment to growth make him a valued part of the StoryOne team and a reflection of the heart behind the firm’s mission.
We’re grateful for the energy and humility he brings to his work each day and look forward to seeing the many ways his story continues to unfold.