Hello Reader, This time of year, one of the main things I’m doing with clients is reviewing last year’s numbers — and then making a rough estimate of income for the year ahead. And it’s a good reminder of something simple but important. When people think about financial planning, they often imagine sophisticated strategies, advanced investing knowledge, or financial “magic.” Some of that can help. But real progress starts with the basics. It starts with understanding your income. If you’re a...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, If you’re getting this email and thinking, “Wait… who is this person and why are they in my inbox?” — totally fair. You did actually sign up for my newsletter. It’s just been a really long time since I last sent one. (April of last year, to be exact.) Life got busy. Work got busy. I got distracted. And even though I genuinely like writing these emails, the longer I put it off, the bigger it became in my head. More expectations, more pressure… and more reasons not to hit send. At...
2 months ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader! I’m not particularly troubled by recent developments in the stock market. And chances are, you shouldn’t be either. To be clear, I AM troubled by much of what the Trump Administration has done, including its unhinged trade “policy.” My personal views notwithstanding, market performance over the past few days isn’t all that unusual. I don’t think it’s accurate (or helpful) to call the stock market reaction a “plunge.” I’m not sure current events are particularly unprecedented....
11 months ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, I’ve been hearing the same questions from almost everyone I talk to lately: “Is everything going to be ok?” “What should I be doing given the current state of the country?” The start of the Trump Administration has been unprecedented in many ways, creating considerable uncertainty about what lies ahead. Many people are wondering how to adjust their plans in response. During uncertain times like these, I find it helpful to focus on what we can actually control. And while none of...
12 months ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Well, it’s been an interesting start to the year here in Los Angeles – to say the least. The wildfires that have decimated several neighborhoods here have impacted pretty much every Angeleno (yes, that’s what we’re called) in some way. We ended up evacuating last week – and while our neighborhood ended up being relatively unscathed, save the lingering air quality issues – it was nonetheless jarring. Of course the events are tragic and my heart goes out to those who have lost so...
about 1 year ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, I hope you’re enjoying your holiday season! I realize it’s painfully cliche – but how is it possible that this year is almost over?! For me, the year has really flown by. Time flying isn’t necessarily a bad thing… but it has prompted me to reflect on how I’m using that time. What’s truly important to me? What activities do I want to spend more time doing? What things do I want to spend less of my limited time and energy on? I’m not huge on new year’s resolutions, but I do want...
about 1 year ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, It’s a time of year many of us will be getting together with loved ones we don’t see that often. Which makes it a great time to consider whether your beneficiary designations are up-to-date! What is a beneficiary designation? 🤔 A beneficiary designation designates who should get your account assets if you pass away. That person is the beneficiary of your account. Usually you can just fill out a form online through your financial institution. By doing so, you are creating a...
over 1 year ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Hope you had a great Thanksgiving. I feel like I’m still recovering, although that’s mostly from the cold I picked up along the way. 😷 As we quickly approach the new year, I’ve been thinking about what I’ll cover in this email newsletter in 2025. AND I’ve been considering how I can make what I cover most impactful for you – wherever you find yourself in your professional journey. Just below, you’ll find links to let me know your current professional focus. That’ll allow me to...
over 1 year ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Happy early Thanksgiving! This is one of my favorite times of year! 🦃 🎄 Yes, I know that’s cliché – but, as I like to say, cliches exist for a reason! One thing I’m grateful for this year is knowing other people who have very different opinions and perspectives than I do. Yes, that includes different political beliefs! 🇺🇸 How boring would life be if everyone thought just like I did?! 😴 But having constructive conversations with those who don’t share my beliefs can be, well,...
over 1 year ago • 1 min read