meet Kahlenbeck CPA Group

Chaise has worked in the tax space for over nine years, both in public accounting and industry at two publicly traded companies. After leaving public accounting in 2020, he missed the client interaction - this led to the founding of Cap Consulting. Through Cap, he was able to get back into the tax space, working with individuals and businesses all over the US. In 2024, he acquired Apple Tree Financial Group and rebranded Cap Consulting as Kahlenbeck CPA Group. He is excited to continue to connect with great people while helping them with their tax and accounting needs.

Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Chaise is the father of four human kids, two goat kids, two cows, five chickens, three dogs, and assorted barn cats.  An avid Cubs fan and amateur gardener, he spends his free time playing baseball with the kids in the backyard, feeling old on the softball field (less often, recently), and completing the forever to-do list that comes with trying to maintain a small farm!

Coffee order: PSL

Favorite music to listen to while cranking out tax returns: Audioslave

Josie has over three years of experience in public accounting and specializes in providing comprehensive tax services to both individuals and businesses. She loves all things tax and is dedicated to delivering accurate and personalized solutions.

After completing her exams and receiving her CPA license, Josie has spent time revisiting old and finding new hobbies. Outside of work you can find Josie browsing the Barr Street Farmers market, enjoying all things Fort Wayne from Ribfest at Headwaters to Komets games at the Coliseum, and cheering on her favorite team, the Cincinnati Reds, at Great American Ball Park.

Coffee order: Iced Caramel Macchiato

Favorite music: The most mainstream pop, rap/hip-hop, country with a dash of Red Hot Chili Peppers

Before joining KCPA, Bay spent nearly a year working as a tax associate in the Fort Wayne office of a national CPA firm. She also spent time on the audit side as an audit intern, gaining exposure on both sides of public accounting. After seeing both audit and tax, she knew that tax was her preferred area of focus. 

At KCPA, Bay works on everything from weekly payroll to bookkeeping. She assists with getting new businesses set up, aiding in registration for tax accounts and initial setup of QBO accounts.

Outside of work, Bay loves checking out cute shops, doing fun activities with friends, and spending time with her family, especially her nieces and little nephew. She has a big family, so there really isn’t time for her to be bored between her aunt duties and family gatherings.

Favorite drinks: Milkis and fruit smoothies

Favorite music: Anything with meaningful lyrics

 Kim is the administrative assistant here at Kahlenbeck CPA Group. She plays a crucial role in streamlining office operations and supporting the accounting team. With a diverse background that spans several fields, she brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to the firm. A passion for helping others and her commitment to providing exceptional support are evident in every aspect of her work. She looks forward to supporting both the team and clients in meaningful ways. 

After spending much of her life in the Chicagoland area, Kim moved to Fort Wayne in 2019. While it took a bit of time to adjust, Fort Wayne is now starting to feel like home. She is a dedicated mom to four wonderful children and has recently embraced the role of grandmother. Outside of her professional life, she finds joy in gardening, cooking, and taking on house renovation projects. These pursuits not only enrich her personal life but also reflect her creativity and commitment to growth, both in and out of the workplace.

Favorite baseball team: Chicago White Sox

Favorite album to listen to while getting stuff done: Flyleaf