Profile
“Clients tell me all the time that they feel more connected, more informed, and more confident because of those little touchpoints. It’s a way to educate, stay visible, and reinforce that I’m here for them – not just at review meetings, but all year round”
Megan Dorn, Dorn Wealth Management
After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa, Linda Cook set out for a career in wealth management. Less than five years later, she realized that the true focus should be on people, not products.
Cook founded the private wealth management firm Gilbert & Cook in 1993. She set out to build a team of experienced professionals who truly understand clients, listen to what they want to achieve, and find the right solutions to meet their needs.
She is passionate about helping others Live a Life of Abundance®, a philosophy that extends beyond her time at the office to her commitment to giving back. She believes that abundance is not just about financial success, but also about being in service to others and using one’s resources to make a meaningful impact.
Cook has long been an advocate for many local and national non-profits. In addition to her charitable work, she previously served as Chair of The University of Northern Iowa Foundation Board of Trustees, during which she a pivotal role in advancing the institution’s mission.
She and her husband embrace their philosophy of living a life of abundance by traveling. They enjoy exploring destinations abroad, as well as making regular trips to spend quality time with their two daughters.
5058 Grand Ridge Drive, West Des Moines, IA 50265
515 270 6444
info@gilbertcook.com
linkedin.com/in/linda-cook-321708a
gilbertcook.com
Linda Cook
Managing Partner and Founder
Gilbert & Cook
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Milestones
“My clients are more like family, and I want to make sure I can provide real value to them”
Megan Dorn, Dorn Wealth Management
1990
1993
2023–Present
2019–Present
2025
Began her career in the financial planning industry
1990
Founded Gilbert & Cook, an independent wealth management firm dedicated to comprehensive financial planning
1993
2023–Present: More than 30 years after its founding, the firm now has five partners and employs an in-house investment team and planning team, creating sophisticated strategies to manage over $1 billion in assets
2025: Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking
2023–Present
2019–Present: Vice President at Pickler Wealth Advisors
2023: Memphis Business Journal's 40 Under 40
2024: PRSA Memphis’ VOX Award for Tactics - Podcasts
2019–Present
CEO of Meridian Financial Partners, where she manages a team of eight that delivers investment management and financial planning to over 450 households in 24 states
2025
Assistant Vice President and Senior Broker at MJ Hall & Company since 2018
Present
Milestones
As a founding member of WOW! (Women. Opportunity. Winning.), an employee resource group created for all women of Ryan Specialty, Phillips Topping has long championed for women in the industry.
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females,” she adds.
In addition to her sharp marketing eye, the key to Phillips Topping’s success lies in her high-energy approach and positive attitude.
“As the leader of a team, it’s important to motivate and encourage your team members. People work very hard and do their best and it’s important to recognize these efforts. For my career overall, my attitude has been one of curiosity. The more you can learn, the better you’ll understand the business, and then the deeper your knowledge will become, making you a better team member.”
Chief underwriting officer of executive risk at Chubb
President of financial insurance solutions at Kemper
Chief underwriting officer at Axis Capital
CEO of global Insurance at Endurance
CEO of global Insurance at Sompo International
Despite facing industry biases, such as being mistaken for an assistant at events, she refused to let female stereotypes define her. Instead, she’s built a thriving network of women advisors and found a strong ally in Harbour Investments, which supports her growth as a leader, business owner, and mother.
Client satisfaction isn’t measured in Dorn’s office by closing ratios or one-time feedback – it’s reflected in loyalty, longevity, and referrals. Her communications strategy features handwritten and even hand-drawn birthday cards because in her words, “the little things matter”.
Another offering is short videos delivered a few times per month, providing quick updates on market changes, financial tips, or just simple reassurance during uncertain times.
She explains, “Clients tell me all the time that they feel more connected, more informed, and more confident because of those little touchpoints. It’s a way to educate, stay visible, and reinforce that I’m here for them – not just at review meetings, but all year round.”
Empowerment is an ambition of Dorn’s, believing that financial education leads to strong communities. However, she only works with individuals who match her values.
“I also don’t take on every prospective client who walks through the door. I’m intentional about making sure it’s a good fit on both sides,” she adds. “My clients are more like family, and I want to make sure I can provide real value to them. That means listening closely, being transparent, and never overpromising.”