Where We’re Headed: Three Leaders on the Next Ten Years

October 20, 2025

Ten years in, the story of Freidel & Associates is really the story of its people. We asked three of the leaders who helped

build it to share how they got here, what they’re proud of, and where they see the firm going.

Ben Paulding, Partner

How I Got Here

I joined Paul as his partner on January 1, 2024. Our families kept crossing paths through collaborative referrals and homeschool events with an uncanny level of regularity to the extent that could only have been providential. I remember fishing Spring Creek with my daughter in a remote part of the Black Hills National Forest when, one after another, Paul’s children traipsed across the bridge nearby, followed by Paul. A series of small-town moments like that led to great conversations where we discovered a shared vision: the advisory work we were each doing was an opportunity to do very purposeful work for good.

What I’m Proud Of

It’s been humbling to see the unifying voice we share as a team in how we care for people, from the care we show our clients to the way we show up for each other. What has surprised me most is the level of sustained growth. As we live out doing the next right thing, clients have taken notice, we’ve developed a strong reputation, and deep dedication to client relationships that go both ways.

Where We’re Headed

I see us pressing into the human element of our work. Advances in technology and AI are platforming us to show up more intentionally and more comprehensively for our clients, elevating the conversation to the heart of what they want to accomplish with their lives and resources.

Carol Treska, Tax Director

How I Got Here

I’m a CPA with more than two decades of experience. I started at a large regional firm in the Great Lakes region, managed family office services at a wealth management firm, and then spent over 12 years as a partner at a mid-sized firm serving closely held companies, family-owned businesses, and trusts. What brought me to Freidel was the vision Paul established: a firm that emphasizes expertise while genuinely investing in its people and clients.

What I’m Proud Of

I’m especially proud of the strong, lasting relationships I’ve built with clients on issues that truly matter to them. Tax law, technology, and the industry all evolve quickly, and I value that Freidel stays focused on what remains constant: sound judgment, trust, and always putting the client first.

Where We’re Headed

I want us to be the trusted partner for entrepreneurs and families with intricate needs, known for strategic thinking and true specialization in areas like estate planning, partnership structures, and family office services. Developing future leaders will be critical. The team members we’re mentoring now will define what Freidel looks like in ten years.

Elijah Houchens, Accounting & Advisory Senior Manager

How I Got Here

I’m a CPA with about eight years of public accounting experience, most of it in auditing. I earned my accounting degree from the University of South Dakota and served six years in the Army National Guard, which shaped my commitment to precision, accountability, and service. What drew me to Freidel was the firm’s dedication to investing in people, clients and staff alike.

What I’m Proud Of

I’m most proud of my commitment to my roles as a husband and father, and of keeping my focus on my faith and family while building a career I deeply value. I’ve also been grateful for the chance to learn from a wide range of business leaders and to be trusted to offer insights that make a real difference.

Where We’re Headed

I see us continuing to be known for investing in people, developing young professionals, and serving clients with kindness and generosity. I hope we’ll be set apart by our character and by guidance that elevates others above ourselves.