What Matters Most in Retirement Isn’t Money

Older couple walking along the beach at sunset, reflecting on what matters most in retirement.

In the past, I’ve written about the emotional challenges many people face as they approach retirement – especially around spending. Even when the numbers say they’re more than okay. That conversation often leads to a deeper realization. At a certain point, money stops being the scarce resource – something many people only recognize when they […]

When Spending is the Hard Part in Retirement

Retired couple reviewing something together on a laptop at home

After a lifetime of working, saving, and planning for someday, many retirees run into an unexpected challenge: spending. Not overspending. Just allowing themselves to enjoy the wealth they’ve built. It’s something I’ve seen again and again in my work with clients: business owners, professionals, and parents who have spent decades providing, sacrificing, and putting others […]

Meet Kayla Matthews – Client Service Associate

Close-up of warm stage lights, representing the Parkwoods employee spotlight on tax planning specialist Josh Schlagel.

Kayla Matthews works closely with both clients and advisors to help ensure the mechanics of a financial plan are handled carefully and correctly. Her role focuses on opening new accounts, managing updates to existing accounts, and processing financial transactions – details that matter most when timing, accuracy, and follow-through are critical. At Parkwoods, Kayla helps […]

As We Begin 2026: A Note of Thanks and Our Commitment to You

Older couple walking together outdoors, reflecting the long-term relationships and stewardship focus of Parkwoods Wealth Partners.

As we begin 2026, I want to take a moment to thank you for the trust you place in Parkwoods Wealth Partners. It is a privilege to work alongside you and to support the financial decisions that matter most to you and your family. We never take that responsibility lightly. Like many of you, I’ve […]

You May Already Have More Private Market Exposure Than You Think

Couple walking together with their dog on a tree-lined path in autumn

Lately, I’ve been hearing the same question more often. Clients and prospective clients have a lot of questions about private equity, private credit, and other private investments. Sometimes they ask directly. Sometimes indirectly. Usually the question boils down to some variation of: If I don’t own private investments, am I missing something important? For most […]

Meet April Mueller – Director of Client Service at Parkwoods Wealth Partners

Close-up of warm stage lights, representing the Parkwoods employee spotlight on tax planning specialist Josh Schlagel.

April Mueller is Director of Client Service at Parkwoods Wealth Partners. She was one of Parkwoods’ first employees and has been a core part of building the structures that help advisors serve clients consistently and thoughtfully. April focuses on making sure clients feel supported – not just when big decisions come up, but throughout their […]

The Most Overlooked Holiday Asset: Your Attention

Grandfather and grandson sitting together on a sled in winter, sharing a quiet holiday moment that reflects financial clarity during the holidays and being present with family.

The house is buzzing, the inbox is overflowing, and your to-do list has its own to-do list. This time of year, we talk a lot about assets—gifts, tax planning,  RMD deadlines, portfolio moves before year-end. And those are important. But for many people who put family at the center of their decisions, the most valuable […]

The Most Tax-Efficient Ways to Give in Retirement

Retired couple enjoying time at home, reflecting purposeful retirement planning and tax-efficient charitable giving.

Most families give because something matters to them – their church, their community, a cause tied to their values. The tax benefits aren’t the reason that you give, but they do help your generosity go further. As you enter retirement, the tax system can start to influence your giving in new ways. RMDs begin. Social […]

How to Talk With Your Adult Children About Your Charitable Priorities

Multi-generation family walking together outdoors, representing values-based conversations about charitable giving and family legacy

Most families want the same things. They want their children to understand their intentions. They want to avoid conflict. And they want to pass on their values without turning the conversation into a discussion about money. Talking with your adult children about charitable priorities is one of the simplest ways to create clarity. It helps […]

Charitable Giving and Your Estate Plan: Keeping Things Clear for Your Family

Older couple sitting at the back of their car on a hiking trail, reflecting on retirement and estate planning decisions

Charitable giving is a meaningful part of many families’ lives. It reflects what mattered to you and the impact you hope to leave behind. But when charitable wishes aren’t written down clearly, they can leave children unsure of what you intended – and worried about making the wrong decisionat a moment when they’re already grieving. […]