At our New Castle, IN office, Josh Schlagel helps clients make sense of a tax system that can feel confusing and ever-changing. With seven years of experience in public accounting – and a clear focus on tying tax decisions to long-term planning – Josh brings a calm, thoughtful approach that helps clients feel comfortable with where they stand and confident about where they’re headed.

Below, Josh shares how he supports clients, how he thinks, and where he’s headed next.

How do you think through tax and planning decisions for clients?

I start by looking at the whole picture: cash flow, business needs, timing, and what the client is trying to accomplish in the next few years. Good tax planning is never just about saving money this year – it’s about balancing today’s opportunities with the impact of future decisions. My goal is to make the trade-offs clear so clients can choose a path that protects their long-term plans without feeling overwhelmed.

What’s something you do behind the scenes that improves the client experience?

Before I ever sit down with a client, I run through a full mental checklist of planning opportunities – things like Roth conversions, HSA contributions, IRA eligibility, and 401(k) decisions. Most of what I review won’t end up in the conversation, but it helps me spot the handful of items that actually matter for that client this year. It’s similar to a doctor reviewing a full blood panel: you only hear about the part that needs attention, but the whole review is what keeps everything on track.

What’s a common misconception you help clients clear up?

A lot of people think tax work is mostly data entry. In reality, the real value comes from the analysis – connecting the numbers to what’s happening in your life and spotting opportunities you may not have realized were available. Filing the return is the end of the process, not the beginning.

How do you see your role fitting into the broader advisor team at Parkwoods?

Taxes touch almost every important financial decision, so my role is to make sure the tax side reinforces the planning work clients do with our advisors. I help connect the dots – making sure investment decisions, savings strategies, and major life changes all line up with the tax implications. When everything works together, clients can move forward with much more confidence.

What skills or capabilities are you building to better support clients?

I’m working toward both the Series 65 and the CPA, because clients benefit when tax planning and financial planning stay connected instead of siloed. Strengthening both sides of that expertise helps me collaborate more closely with our advisors and give clients clearer guidance throughout the year. The goal is simple: make sure clients aren’t leaving opportunities on the table.

What will you be doing after tax season?

Heading to the beach – probably Hilton Head. After a long stretch of deadlines and spreadsheets, a few quiet days by the water with my family is exactly what I look forward to.

Have a tax or planning question on your mind?
Schedule a 20-minute Clarity Call with a Parkwoods advisor. We’ll talk through your situation and help you understand your next steps.