Blog
Estimating the Cost of College
As seniors are making decisions and younger families are starting to think ahead, one question comes up again and again: what is this actually going to cost us?
Read MoreNo Eeyores
A trip to Disney with a two-year-old is full of moments that could go either way. This one became a simple reminder of a core value we come back to often: no Eeyores.
Read MoreEPI Summit Recap: Where Conversations Turn Into Action
The Exit Planning Institute Summit in Nashville delivered exactly what it’s known for: real conversations, practical insights, and the kind of connection that moves the needle.
Read MoreThe Financial Milestone Birthdays Everyone Should Know
Starting around age 50, some birthdays carry a different kind of significance. They unlock important financial opportunities and responsibilities that can shape how retirement unfolds.
Read MoreWhat to Do with Your Tax Refund
You filed your taxes promptly, and your refund just arrived. Now what? A refund is always a welcome surprise, but what you do with it matters. Whether you choose to make progress on financial goals or simply enjoy it, the key is to be...
Read MoreShow All
An Afternoon on the Course: Building Connections at the Ranch Scramble
I had the chance to play in the 2026 Ranch Scramble recently, hosted by the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, and it ended up being one of those afternoons that reminds you why getting involved locally is worth it.I’m always looking...
Read MoreThe Financial Planning "Final Four"
With March Madness in full swing, it got us thinking: what if financial habits had their own bracket? This post outlines our “Final Four” of financial habits.
Read MoreLearning to Unplug and Enjoy the Moments That Matter
If you’ve planned and saved for a time away from the office, give yourself permission to truly unplug. Adam reflects on the importance of stepping back, recharging, and enjoying the moments your financial plan is meant to make possible.
Read MoreWhat March Madness Can Teach Us About Financial Planning
Every March, millions of people fill out brackets, and every year, brackets start falling apart almost immediately. The unexpected is guaranteed, not unlike financial planning, because life rarely unfolds exactly the way we plan.
Read MoreTax Season Isn’t Just About Filing. It’s About Learning.
Your tax return is actually one of the most useful financial documents you receive all year. Instead of treating it as something to get through, it can be a chance to learn a lot about how your financial life is working behind the scenes.
Read MoreThis Women’s History Month, Women in Finance Matter More Than Ever
Finance has not always been an easy place for women to break into. For a long time, the industry was built by and for men, often leaving women out of key conversations about money, investing, and long-term planning.
Read MoreA Partnership Built on Trust and Accountability: GoldForum 2026
Since 2012, I’ve partnered with AssetMark, a third-party asset management firm, as an extension of how we care for our clients at FourFront.I am a financial planner, financial engineer, exit planning specialist, and retirement & estate...
Read MoreThe Psychology of Spending After the Holidays
January and February have a way of bringing reality into sharp focus. For many people, the arrival of credit card statements comes with a mix of regret, stress, or a quiet sense of “we should have done better.”
Read MoreLove and Money: Financial Conversations Couples Should Be Having
One of the most meaningful ways to strengthen a relationship doesn’t involve reservations or flowers at all. It involves talking openly about money.
Read MoreThe Big Game Indicator: A Fun Market Signal or Just a Coincidence?
Every year around the Super Bowl, a familiar headline makes the rounds in financial news and social media: What does the outcome of the game say about the stock market this year?
Read MoreAre You Ready for Tax Season 2026?
Tax season can sometimes feel a little overwhelming, but a little preparation now can make a big difference and help you feel more in control.
Read MoreStarting the Year With Focus, Alignment, and a Lot of Post it Notes
There’s real value in stepping away from the day to day to look at the bigger picture. To start the new year, our FourFront Leadership Team spent two full days together with our EOS Implementer doing exactly that.
Read MoreFinancial Resolutions for a Wealthier Future
Financial resolutions, when approached thoughtfully, can have a lasting impact for years to come.
Read MoreStep Into 2026 With a Financial Word of the Year
As we enter 2026, consider choosing a Financial Word of the Year to guide your decisions, shape your mindset, and give you focus.
Read MoreA Year of Growth, Thanks to You
As we prepare to close out another remarkable year, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your continued trust and partnership.
Read MoreThe Power of Coming Together: Reflections From Our Sarasota Team Week
Our team spent three days together in Sarasota, building stronger relationships, improving communication, and reconnecting with a shared purpose. The time together helped us work better as a team and bring even more value to our clients.
Read MoreWhat Will You Do With Your Holiday Bonus?
Many of us have come to expect a year-end bonus, but it still brings a welcome sense of relief, and a few new possibilities, as the year winds down. In 2024, the average bonus across all industries was about 2.8% of an employee’s...
Read MorePreparing Wisely: Lessons from the Sarasota Exit Planning Institute
Clarity begins with a single question: “Do you know what your business is worth today?”
Read MorePlanning for Retirement as a Military Family
Retirement is a major life milestone that requires careful planning and budgeting. For military families, it comes with unique considerations, especially when it comes to taking full advantage of the benefits available.
Read MoreCelebrate the Holidays Without Breaking the Bank
The holidays are the biggest shopping season of the year, but they don’t have to leave your wallet feeling empty. With a little planning and creativity, you can savor the joy of the season season while staying on track financially....
Read MoreTribute to John Broderick - Mentor. Brother. Friend.
A tribute to the mentor who changed everything — how one conversation turned struggle into success, and how friendship, guidance, and purpose shaped a life and career that will forever honor his legacy.
Read MoreYear-End Charitable Gifting and You
Are you making charitable donations at year's end? If so, you should know about some of the financial "fine print" involved, as the right moves could potentially bring more of a benefit to both you and your chosen charity.
Read MoreShould You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?
September is College Savings Month, so it’s a good time to think about how to best prepare for future education costs.
Read MoreLife Insurance Awareness Month: The More You Know
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, a reminder to pause and ask: If something happened to me tomorrow, would my family be financially secure?
Read MoreWhy More Families Are Choosing to Gift Wealth Earlier—and How to Do It
Estate management isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone— it’s also about what you can do now to help manage future estate taxes, transfer wealth strategically, and attempt to create a meaningful impact during your lifetime....
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About the 2025 Changes to Inherited IRA Rules
The rules regarding inherited IRAs have changed in the last five years, and failing to comply with the new requirements may result in IRS penalties. These changes affect people inheriting IRAs and those looking to leave retirement...
Read MoreHow Do You Turn Retirement Savings into a Reliable Income Strategy?
You’ve likely spent years building your retirement nest egg—saving diligently, investing wisely, and contributing to retirement accounts along the way. But transitioning from earning a paycheck to relying on your savings can feel...
Read More“The Four Most Dangerous Words In Investing Are: ‘This Time It’s Different.’” – Sir John Templeton
Despite those who say the conventional wisdom that has guided investor actions over the years is no longer valid in 2025, remember the famous quote from legendary investor Sir John Templeton: "The four most dangerous words in investing...
Read MoreWhat’s the Job Market Look Like for 2025 Graduates?
It’s graduation season—a time of celebration and new beginnings. For families with college seniors, this time can bring both excitement and uncertainty. While some graduates have jobs lined up, many others still are navigating job...
Read MoreIs It Smarter to Buy or Rent a Second Home?
As summer approaches, your thoughts may drift toward escaping your daily routine. Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is sitting on a pristine beach, fishing in a mountain lake, or playing the back nine between pickleball matches,...
Read MoreFrom College Acceptances to Affordability: Considerations for Families in the Final Stretch
April is a pivotal time in the college admissions process. After years of preparation, saving, and investing—not to mention the countless hours spent on exam prep, campus visits, and perfecting applications and essays—the finish line...
Read More
Tariffs Beyond the Headlines
President Trump announced sweeping new tariffs, fulfilling a central campaign promise to overhaul U.S. trade policy. Read for key takeaways and our guidance.
Read MoreSpring Into Financial Wellness: Actionable Steps for Financial Literacy Month
April isn’t just about filing taxes—it’s also Financial Literacy Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on your financial habits, expand your knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward improving your financial well-being. Whether...
Read More10 Things You Can Do Now to Help Simplify Your Estate for Your Heirs
One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is a thoughtful estate strategy that outlines your wishes after you are gone. Discussing estate details with your team of professionals is another way to help manage your legacy...
Read MoreThe Evolving Role of Women in Family Finances
March is Women’s History Month, and according to a recent survey, 49% of women consider themselves to be the chief financial officer of their households, up from 41% in 2021.1 Those numbers are even more impressive when you consider...
Read MoreDon’t Leave Money Behind: Finding Your Missing 401(k)s
You've worked hard throughout your life to build assets to support your retirement. As financial professionals, one of the most critical functions we provide is helping clients determine their retirement income needs and structuring a...
Read MoreTax Season Brings a New Wave of Identity Theft Risks
Tax season brings a new wave of identity theft risks, with criminals ready to exploit your personal data to file fraudulent tax returns in your name. Imagine the shock of discovering that a criminal beat you to filing your...
Read More10 Facts You May Not Know About Social Security
Social Security is often misunderstood or underestimated in retirement strategy. However, as financial professionals, we've seen how it can play a crucial role in our clients' overall financial strategy, regardless of their income...
Read MoreInnovative New Year's Resolutions: Financial and Personal Growth Strategies for 2025
Looks like New Year's resolutions are still going strong in 2025! A recent Pew survey found that about a third of Americans kicked off the year with at least one resolution, and many people actually went for multiple goals. It's...
Read MoreKey Financial Insights from 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
As we approach the end of 2024, it's an opportune time to reflect on the year's financial developments and consider what 2025 may bring. We believe in understanding both the past and potential future of our economic landscape, which...
Read MoreNavigating Healthcare Costs in Retirement: Life After Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
As you approach retirement, a critical aspect of your retirement strategy can catch even the most financially savvy individuals off guard: healthcare costs. For decades, you may have enjoyed employer-sponsored health insurance. As...
Read MoreA Different Kind of Year-End Review: 10 Steps to Reflect and Recharge
Financial professionals typically have a year-round focus on monetary goals and wealth management strategies. However, we also believe that true financial well-being is intrinsically linked to your overall life satisfaction and...
Read MoreYear-End Giving Strategies: Maximizing Your Impact
America is a generous country. People with diverse backgrounds can unite for a good cause, whether to benefit their local communities or the broader world. As we enter the holiday season, now is a great time to think about your giving...
Read MoreExploring the Financial Impact of Electric Vehicles
As financial professionals, we’ve noticed a trend among our clients: an increasing interest in electric vehicles (EVs). To help address some of your questions, we’ve compiled this high-level guide to provide insights into the...
Read MoreSafeguarding Your Identity: Essential Tips for Financial Security
Statistics show that nearly 33% of Americans have faced some identity theft attempts in their lives, and experts estimate there is a new case of identity theft every 22 seconds. As financial professionals, one of our primary goals is...
Read MoreThe Impact of Elections on the Markets and Tax Policy
The Impact of Elections on the Markets and Tax Policy With Labor Day behind us, we're in the final stretch of the 2024 presidential election race. As we follow the news and parse the most recent polls, some may ask, "How might what...
Read MoreDon’t Be A Victim Of The Retirement Crisis
Don’t Be A Victim Of The Retirement Crisis If you think the United States has a retirement crisis, you are not alone. A recent survey found that 79% of working-age Americans believe the same thing. That percentage is up from 67% in...
Read MoreArtificial Intelligence’s Influence on the Investing Landscape
In 1999, Bill Gates wrote, “How you gather, manage, and use information will determine whether you win or lose.” Companies looking to be successful in the future should heed these words when making decisions about implementing...
Read MorePreparing to Send a Child Off to College? Don't Forget These Important Topics
Sending a child off to college is a major milestone for any family, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or close friend. It’s an exciting time, filled with anticipation and perhaps a bit of trepidation. There’s so much to do, and...
Read MoreHow Do You Know If You’re Ready for Retirement?
Your financial advisor may be telling you that you have enough money to afford to retire. But are you ready psychologically and emotionally? Here are some questions to ask yourself. What is your vision for your next chapter? The...
Read MoreDo You Know About the New Filing Requirements for Small Business Owners?
If you are a small business owner—or plan to be one—you should be aware of a new reporting requirement. The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), passed in 2021, changed beneficial ownership rules, which is expected to impact 32 million...
Read MoreTen Common Estate Strategy Mistakes You Should Avoid
Legacy preparation can play a key role in any financial strategy. Legacy management lets you consider what happens to everything you’ve accumulated—and may continue to accumulate—throughout your lifetime. But far too often, we’ve seen...
Read MoreFinancial Wedding Tips for a Memorable “I Do”
As we enter the traditional wedding month of June, we wanted to explore the range of expenses that can be related to this special event. The average US wedding costs $35,0001 According to The Knot Real Weddings Study of nearly 10,000...
Read MoreThe Evolving Relationship Between Stocks and Bonds
Sir John Templeton once said, “The four most expensive words in investing are: ‘This time it’s different.'” And normally, we would agree. But the phrase “This time it’s different” may apply to what's happened in financial markets in...
Read MoreThe #P.R.E.M.I.S.E Series: Navigating FourFront's Financial Planning with Purpose
In the dynamic landscape of financial planning, where the Navigation for Wealth TM process guides our interactions with clients, the acronym #P.R.E.M.I.S.E takes center stage. #P.R.E.M.I.S.E encapsulates the essential pillars of...
Read MoreHow Much Do You Need To Retire?
A few years ago, there were ads from financial services companies asking, “What’s your number?” The number was the money you needed to retire comfortably. This was an effective way for financial services companies to get people...
Read MoreIdentity Protection Strategies – Are You Doing Enough To Keep Your Information Safe?
There isn’t a week that goes by when you don’t read about some data breach. Safeguarding your personal information starts with understanding cybersecurity risks, knowing what to look for, and doing everything you can to help protect...
Read MoreCelebrating Service and Support: A Stellar Day at the Inaugural Armed Forces Day Charity Golf Tourna
Celebrating Service and Support: A Stellar Day at the Inaugural Armed Forces Day Charity Golf Tournament Yesterday was a remarkable day of camaraderie, courage, and charity at the Tara Golf and Country Club, as FourFront Wealth...
Read MoreCreate a Strategy to Protect Your Wealth with Potential Estate Tax Changes Looming
At the end of 2025, portions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire. Many changes will come with the sunsetting of many rules, including the possibility that federal estate and gift tax exemption levels will revert to...
Read MoreGive Your Children the Gift of Financial Literacy
Give your children the gift of financial literacy. They’ll thank you later! As a parent, you are well aware of your responsibility in helping your children grow up happy and healthy. Once they enter their teen years, the pressure can...
Read MoreInvesting in a Presidential Election Year
As the presidential election race heats up, a common question on investors’ minds is, “How might the looming White House vote impact the markets?” Some may wonder if they should tweak their portfolios or sit tight...
Read MoreSECURE Act 2.0 Includes New Provision On Special Needs Trusts
Experts estimate there are more than 44 million people with disabilities in the U.S., representing 13.4% of the population.1 Many parents of children with disabilities choose to establish a special needs trust. This can help provide...
Read More
Navigating Educator Retirement: The Role of Financial Advisors
Educators face unique challenges in retirement planning, and seeking the guidance of financial advisors can make the journey smoother.
Read MoreThe Big Game Indicator and Other Unusual Economic Theories
It’s a fun time of year for football fans. The NFL playoffs are starting, and the Big Game is just around the corner. While football fans will tune in for the matchups, commercials, and Usher’s Big Game halftime show, you...
Read MoreMajor Tax Changes Looming: Are You Ready?
With the start of the new year, we wanted to discuss a topic that will likely garner attention throughout 2024: the potential sunsetting of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2025. Although some of the provisions within the TCJA are...
Read MoreWhat to Know When Your Child Turns 18
Your Child is Turning 18: Handling Healthcare, Academics, and Finances Together As your child blows out the candles on their 18th birthday, you may still see your baby girl or boy. But in the eyes of the law your child is considered a...
Read More2023 Recap and 2024 Outlook: Key Events and What May Be in Store
As we get ready to turn the page on 2023 and welcome the new year with all its possibilities, we’d like to take some time to reflect on the year that was—the notable events, trends, and developments that defined our...
Read MoreTechnology Guide for Dementia Patients and Their Caregivers
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or any other form of dementia, this can be an extremely challenging time. While promising new treatments are developing and research continues, a cure remains elusive....
Read MoreIsrael/Hamas War
Human tragedies and markets One of the most challenging things about investing (and writing about investing) is that markets are shockingly unemotional when it comes to human tragedy. Markets simply do not care about human suffering...
Read More10 Financial Missteps to Avoid During a Divorce
Divorce is one of the most stressful life events. Even the most amicable splits can be complicated and emotionally draining. We likely all know couples who have gone through divorce, and it can be a trying time for everyone involved....
Read MorePreparing for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Sunset at the End of 2025
While we haven’t yet said goodbye to 2023, it’s not too early to begin thinking about any tax changes that may be on the horizon. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 was designed to overhaul the federal tax code by...
Read MoreOn The Mark: Shutdown the Drama
Key Takeaways The latest government shutdown will add to the wall of worry but does not equate to another government default potential. Government shutdowns are sadly not uncommon. Since 1976, there have been 20 shutdowns of varied...
Read MoreA Year-End Financial Checklist
Time to Think About Year-End Financial Strategies As we roll into fall and the fourth quarter, now is a good time to pause and reflect on proactive ways to set up your finances for 2024. Economically speaking, we are now in a much...
Read MoreOn The Mark: Back to the Future 60/40
Key Takeaways Inflation regimes impact the returns of a 60/40 portfolio 60/40 portfolios are effective in a range bound inflation environment Along with stable inflation, there are other tailwinds to support the efficacy of the 60/40...
Read MoreAttention Parents and Grandparents of College-Bound Students: FAFSA Gets an Overhaul
Changes are coming to the complicated form that students must submit to qualify for college financial aid, known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Department of Education is calling it the “most...
Read MoreHow the SECURE 2.0 Act Changed 529 Plans
Changes to 529 plans in the SECURE 2.0 ActThe SECURE Act was initially passed by Congress at the end of 2019 and was intended to improve retirement savings opportunities. It was a big deal at the time and the most significant piece of...
Read MoreHealth Savings Accounts: Pros, Cons, and Retirement Considerations
What if your child needs braces? The cost may be as much as $6,000 for metal braces—more modern versions can run as much as $13,000. Your health insurance may cover only a portion of the cost. If you're well past the braces stage...
Read More
5 Tips for International Travelers
As the summer travel season approaches, we wanted to share tips for those preparing for a vacation outside the U.S. Whether you're heading to Europe, Asia, or another part of the world, being prepared may help you avoid unexpected...
Read MoreNavigating the Costs of Senior Care: Tips for Preparing for Long-Term Care
Senior care costs can be overwhelming, particularly when long-term care is required due to illness or medical conditions. With the number of seniors in the U.S. expected to rise exponentially by 2030, it's crucial to be prepared for...
Read More
I just spent 24-Hours in the “Mile High City” – and I never left the airport.
We just attended an intensive boot camp/workshop at the Westin Denver Airport with 55 of our national partner advisors and leadership team from The AmeriFlex GroupTM. It was an opportunity to enhance our offerings and resources for our...
Read MoreThe Retractable (Debt) Ceiling
Key Takeaways o The government’s borrowing limit is estimated to run out by early June. o Investors should prepare for potential volatility as increased partisanship in Congress will potentially only be resolved at the...
Read MoreDemise of the US Dollar: Greatly Exaggerated or Destiny?
Key TakeawaysUS dollar has gotten a lot of press recently.Some “de-dollarization” is likely to occur over time.The long-term impact is both positive and negativeDollar fears After a decade of relative strength, the US...
Read More
"Mastering the Art of Progress: How to Take Two Steps Backwards and Still Move Three Steps Forward"
Mastering the art of progress doesn't necessarily mean moving forward all the time. Sometimes, taking two steps backwards can actually help you move three steps forward in the long run
Read More
Goals, Mile-markers and Horizons… Opening Day 2023
Goals, Mile-markers and Horizons… Opening Day 2023Walking through the tunnel at Shea Stadium back in the 80’s and early 90’s was always such a thrill. It was the meeting of the expansive infield against the emerald...
Read More
A Conference, a CEO, and My Grandfather...
Day One: 2023 AssetMark Gold Forum The theme of the conference was LIMITLESS and “Ode to Joy” played at 9:00 a.m. Monday morning as CEO Natalie Wolfson took the stage. And I immediately thought of my...
Read MoreDooming Debt or Déjà Vu?
What is The Debt Ceiling?On January 19, the US government reached its legal $31.4 trillion (T) debt limit1. The debt ceiling is about paying the bill on purchases already made, just like paying your credit card bill. The...
Read MoreWhat Happens in Vegas?
Question: What happens in Vegas?Answer: Improving our business systems, partnerships and money management for our clients.This week I spent time in Las Vegas working with the leadership team of our RIA, The AmeriFlex Group, on...
Read MoreThree Takeaways from 2022
Last year was an exceptional year, and not in a good way. There was no shortage of worries during the year from COVID-19, the Ukraine war, and the most central story of all: inflation and interest rates. In this edition of On the Mark,...
Read MoreWhat's The Alternative?
This year has been a head-scratcher for most investors, given it has seen the worst period of returns for bonds while also seeing an equity bear market. Alternative investments have been used by institutional investors for many years...
Read More