Financially Speaking: The Blog
Retirement-focused education to help you thrive in your next chapter.
The Science of a Happy Retirement
Most retirees think happiness comes from financial security, but the science tells a bigger story. Research shows that lasting fulfillment in retirement comes from three things: a solid financial foundation, strong relationships, and a sense of purpose.
Three Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Fiduciary Advisor
Not all advisors who call themselves fiduciaries truly operate like one.
Learn the three key questions to ask before hiring a fiduciary advisor plus how to verify them using BrokerCheck and the SEC’s public database.
The 10-Year Window That Can Make or Break Your Retirement
The decade surrounding retirement, five years before and five after, can make or break your long-term success.
In this article, Charles Petitjean, CFP®, explains why this 10-year window is the most critical for retirees, and how smart tax moves, spending strategies, and investment positioning can secure a lifetime of financial confidence.
You Can’t Predict the Next Recession: But You Can Prepare!
The next recession isn’t a question of if, but when
. Here’s how to make sure your retirement plan stays solid, no matter what the economy does next.
What’s the Biggest Risk to Your Retirement Today?
Retirement isn’t just about saving enough. The biggest risks, like inflation, market volatility, taxes, and health costs, can derail your plans if you’re not prepared.
Learn how to build a flexible retirement plan with guardrails that protect your lifestyle and give you confidence to spend wisely.
How Much Can You Safely Spend Each Year in Retirement?
Wondering how much you can safely spend in retirement? Learn why the 4% rule falls short, how the Retirement Spending Curve works, and strategies to enjoy your money without running out.
Why You Need a One-Page Financial Summary for Your Family
Most people focus on the big estate planning documents, and for good reason, they’re essential. But what your family will really need right away is a simple, one-page guide to your financial life.
Why Southwest Washington Is the Best Place to Retire
Those of us in the Pacific Northwest know we’ve got something special. Here’s why Southwest Washington stands out as the top retirement spot on the West Coast.
Do You Have the Right Investment Strategy?
Too safe? Too risky? The right investment strategy strikes a balance.. is yours working for you?
The Great Retirement Debate: Pre-Tax or Roth?
One of the biggest financial questions people wrestle with is:
Should I put my money into a traditional (pre-tax) account, or a Roth account?
Let’s settle the debate.
Your Mid-Year Financial Planning Checklist for 2025
Take a few moments to check in now, so you can head into December confident you’re still on track.
Let’s review the eight key areas to assess.
How Much Should You Save for Retirement This Year?
Most people think about retirement savings as one big number or the total they’ll need by the time they stop working.
As a result, they often choose arbitrary contribution amounts for their 401(k)s and IRAs.
6 Overlooked Tax Planning Strategies for Retirees
When most people think about retirement, they focus on saving and investing, but not on how they’ll manage taxes in retirement.
That’s a problem. Because how you withdraw and distribute your wealth matters just as much as how you built it.
Do You Have the Right Financial Team in Place?
Retirement isn’t a solo mission. At least, it shouldn’t be.
Those best-positioned to succeed typically have developed a team around them to coordinate their financial pieces.
The Best Accounts to Fund if You Want to Retire Before 60
If early retirement is a goal of yours, whether that’s in your 50s or even sooner, traditional retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs likely won’t be enough.
How Far Does $1 Million Go in Retirement?
We've been told for a long time that one million dollars is the mark to hit… but will it carry you all the way through retirement?
US Tax Laws Just Changed: Here’s How You’re Impacted!
The finalized One Big Beautiful Tax Bill is here.
Discover what’s changed, what’s staying the same, and how you should adjust your financial strategy.
Can the Right Financial Decision Feel Wrong?
Here’s a financial planner telling you it’s not all about what the numbers say is “best”.
Sometimes, the math points in one direction, but you’re compelled to go in another so that you can have peace of mind.
Do I Really Need a Financial Planner?
If you have the time, knowledge, and discipline, then maybe not.
However, there are some limitations to this approach that you should be aware of.
How to Talk to Your Aging Parents About Finances
Worried about your aging parents’ and their financial affairs, but not sure how to bring it up?
Here’s how to start the conversation, without making it awkward!