Our Story: Deep Roots, Clear Vision

Woodside Financial Services has been helping individuals and families make confident insurance decisions for over 30 years. Founded in the heart of Wisconsin’s countryside, our agency began with a simple idea: insurance is a financial decision, and people deserve thoughtful, honest guidance as they navigate their choices.

Our name, Woodside, was inspired by the tall trees just outside our office—steady, grounded, and enduring. Much like those woods, our commitment to our clients has stood the test of time.

A Family Business with Generations of Care

Woodside was established by Douglas Arndt, a lifelong Wisconsinite who knew that insurance isn't just about policies and premiums — it's about people. He understood that many folks feel uneasy when they hear the word “insurance,” and he set out to change that. Doug built this agency on trust, clarity, and personal connection, not pressure or sales tactics.

Over the years, the agency has grown in both experience and family. Doug’s daughter, Emily Chagnon, is now part of the business — bringing energy, creativity, and a deep respect for the values Woodside was built on.

As an independent agency, we’re proud to represent a wide range of companies and coverage options. That means our focus stays where it belongs: on you. Whether you're looking at health, dental, vision, or life insurance, we walk alongside you to make sure your plan fits your real-life needs — not just a spreadsheet.

Why We’re Different

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all policies. We believe in listening. In asking the right questions. In explaining things in plain English. And in being here for you, not just at enrollment, but all year long.

Our clients are our neighbors. We’ve helped generations within the same families. And when someone calls our office, they talk to a real person who actually knows their name. That’s just how we do business.

At Woodside Financial Services, our history is still being written — one relationship, one conversation, one solution at a time.

And while times and technology change, Emily keeps us current — all while the original values that Doug built into the business back in 1979 remain the foundation of everything we do.