for consideration…
items curated weekly to inform and inspire professional stewards of wealth
08/07
for consideration…
……………
“Success is stumbling from failure to failure
with no loss of enthusiasm.”
— Winston Churchill
……………
Slow Philanthropy | SSIR
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/slow-philanthropy
** Bridgespan’s co-founder Jeffrey Bradach discusses the gap between what the wealthy give and what they say they’ll give
The Advisor–Client Disconnect | IWI
** Some wide gaps between what clients want and what advisors think clients want
AI can help build wealth. But it can also be disastrously wrong. | Prof G Media
https://www.profgmedia.com/p/ai-can-help-build-wealth-but-it-can
** Good insights into how consumers are using AI for financial advice
Podcast: He Helped Clean Up the Last Crash | Freakonomics
** Gary Gensler, M.I.T. professor and past SEC Chair, discusses crashes, markets, AI, and global economics
Book: Leonardo da Vinci — Walter Isaacson
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/3232391
** An extensive look into one of the greatest minds in human history
____________________________________________
07/31
for consideration…
……………
“History shapes men,
but it is a necessary faith of leadership
that men can help shape history.”
— Lyndon B. Johnson
** stated as he signed the measure creating Medicare and Medicaid… both went into effect 60 years ago yesterday (July 30, 1966)
……………
Podcast: John D. Rockefeller | The Knowledge Project
** A well-done biography of one of the world’s greatest entrepreneurs and philanthropists
Uncle Sam’s Cut | SSRN
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=6847621
** Paper examines Federal tax drag on US equity investors 1926-2025. TLDR; annualized tax drag averages 347 bps
S&P 500 | S&P Dow Jones Indices
https://investorsheritage.com/app/uploads/2020/09/sp-500-brochure.pdf
** Good insight into the most famous of indexes… take special note to: “The S&P 500 is float-adjusted market-cap-weighted (stock price X shares outstanding X investable weight factor)” – answering the question of exposure to SpaceX if added as most of its shares aren’t ‘investable’ to the public
Podcast: The Oil Market’s Billion-Barrel Problem | Thoughts on the Market
** A good overview of the worldwide oil market now and risks for the rest of the year – not just Iran, but Russia, etc.
80,000 Hours | Benjamin Todd
https://open.spotify.com/show/44QpTmjJHQdKmPpX9G8nBA?si=1a2aa4be6d3d449c
** A super-in-depth look into how to shape your career to do good
____________________________________________
07/24
for consideration…
……………
“In every walk with nature
one receives far more than they seek.”
— John Muir
……………
Quarterly Markets Perspective | Fidelity
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/QMP.pdf
** New QMP is live… great new slides – mag 7 diversification (4) / shifting bonds –> cash in spaghetti chart (8) / returns per midterm outcome (12)
Podcast: Austan Goolsbee on The Weekly Show w/ Jon Stewart
** Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee talks the economy / Fed / etc… great language to use w/ clients about the Fed
Podcast: US Midyear Outlook | GS Exchanges
** David Mericle, chief US economist in Goldman Sachs Research, talks rates, labor market, and geopolitical risks
Hope In Hard Questions | Claude AI
https://claude.com/hard-questions
** A beautiful web experience to help us think about the hard questions about AI in our work and our society
Rap Theory & Practice: an Introduction | Lupe Fiasco / MIT
https://youtu.be/zBHRsYhYb-o?si=6M1llDa5y-4yKFpW
** Lupe Fiasco introduces the course he teaches at MIT… a masterclass in teaching subject matter excellence
____________________________________________
07/09
for consideration…
……………
“A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction,
and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the injury.”
― John Stuart Mill, On Liberty
……………
Charitable Gift Planning | IWI
** Hits most all the main strategies of charitable planning – a great read/reference for the additional things besides a DAF
Melinda French Gates Is Rethinking Women’s Health Care | Elle
** An excellent read about some of the simple yet profound deficiencies in our society and around the world
Composer by Sofi
https://www.sofi.com/invest/composer/
** AI powered automated investment strategies – the new competitor to active management ?
Wealth Trends 2026 | MSCI
https://www.msci.com/research-and-insights/research-reports/2026-wealth-trends
** Global risks, AI, private markets, etc. Lots going on in this ever-changing world of investment
Croatia | I Hear It’s Beautiful ft. John Malkovich
https://youtu.be/S2Uqg1va_pI?si=xsWQLtuEtXb9PoUT
** One of the greatest actors of all time in a travel commercial – pure genius
____________________________________________
07/02
for consideration…
……………
“My ventures are not in one bottom trusted,
Nor to one place; nor is my whole estate
Upon the fortune of this present year:
Therefore my merchandise makes me not sad.”
— Antionio, The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare
……………
The Hidden Cost of Stock Market Concentration | Lubos Pastor, et al.
** Hot Take – Mag 7 may be undersold (!!) due to concentration limits in mutual funds and ETFs.
*** Lubos is wicked smart – he ran the CPWA portfolio management class in Chicago
How America Saves | Vanguard
** In its 25th year, this report ‘reveals a quiet retirement revolution – increased savings / etc.
Social Security’s 2026 Financial Outlook | Boston College
https://crr.bc.edu/social-securitys-financial-outlook-the-2026-update-in-perspective
** The outlook got worse (less immigration / OBBBA / etc.) but can be solved with some political smarts and cooperation
Wealth and Well-being… Foundations of Retirement | David Blanchett
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=6843201
** The paper explores how wealth (savings and lifetime income) and well-being (health and connectivity) are related to retirement satisfaction
See Chicago, it’s beautiful
** Willis Tower Skydeck – Awe + Terror :: https://theskydeck.com
** The Bazaar by Jose Andres – Beautiful + Delicious :: https://www.thebazaar.com/location/bazaar-meat-chicago/
** Second City Mainstage Show – Hilarious + Classic :: https://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/the-second-city-mainstage-114th-revue-chi
** Obama Presidential Center – Awe-Inducing Inspiration, full stop :: https://www.obama.org/visit/
** Hyatt Centric Magnificent Mile – some of the best hotel staff I’ve experienced :: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-centric/en-US/chimm-hyatt-centric-chicago-mag-mile
____________________________________________
06/18
for consideration…
……………
“If there is no struggle, there is no progress.
Those who profess to favor freedom, and yet deprecate agitation,
are men who want crops without plowing up the ground.
They want rain without thunder and lightning.
They want the ocean without the awful roar of its many waters.
This struggle may be a moral one; or it may be a physical one;
or it may be both moral and physical; but it must be a struggle.
Power concedes nothing without a demand.
It never did and it never will.”
― Frederick Douglass
……………
Book: The 1619 Project | Nikole Hannah-Jones, et al.
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/6104047
** A journey through America’s vile history of slavery and racism told through multiple voices and forms (history, poetry, essay, etc.)
*** Details and specific essays: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html
2026 Mid-Year Market Outlook | YCharts
https://1645474.hs-sites.com/hubfs/2026_Mid_Year_Market_Outlook.pdf
** Good charts on tech outperformance, yields, and inflation
2026 Study of Wealthy Americans | Bank of America
https://ustrustaem.fs.ml.com/content/dam/ust/articles/pdf/2026-Study-of-Wealthy-Americans_ada.pdf
** Wealth trends – lots of longevity concerns and next-gen wealth transfer… GenZ/Millennials are very different investors than Baby Boomers
Fidelity Education Assistance Program
https://www.fmrbenefits.com/topic/life/benefit/educational-assistance-program
** Broken record here – but if you’re not using it, you’re missing out. $5,250 reimbursed for job-related education and a list of designations fully covered by Fid… my CPWA course was ~$7K – fully covered
AI Text-To-Speech | ElevenLabs
https://elevenlabs.io/text-to-speech
** A great study help for your next designation (looking at you future CFPs) – have your favorite AI LLM create a script of your notes, then upload to ElevenLabs to get it read out loud and save it as an MP3
____________________________________________
06/12
for consideration…
……………
“Plan for what is difficult while it is easy,
do what is great while it is small.”
— Sun Tzu, The Art of War
……………
A Lifecycle Approach to Financial Literacy for Wealthy Families | IWI
** A look at how to help clients teach the next gen about wealth… “true wealth management is, ultimately, stewardship management”
U.S. Wealth Is Booming, But Advisors Are Losing Ground | FA Mag
https://www.fa-mag.com/news/u-s–wealth-is-booming–but-advisors-are-losing-ground-anyway-87269.html
** Studies show wealthy clients are less consolidated now than in 2019… they want tax efficiency among other strategies
Fareed Zakaria Talks Geopolitics | Freakonomics Radio
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000771225038
** The war in Iran, energy markets, geopolitical factions, nationalism… lots covered in this excellent take on the world with an economic bend
*** Ian Bremmer on the Ezra Klein Show is also quite good :: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ian-bremmer-on-the-risks-america-poses-to-the-world/id1548604447?i=1000770741164
7 Cues That Make You Instantly More Likable | Big Think
https://youtu.be/d_YZWaSeHws?si=fJRMeb3tbYraF2oO
** Warmth, competence, open palms, and a lot of other best practices from this masterclass in charisma
What No One Tells You About Your 40s | Front Row Seat Clips
https://youtu.be/rxuuD311kfs?si=dDCSj4khCo8m4jQ4
** Arthur Brooks discusses life’s ~middle phase and how to be happy as your physical body/brain transitions
____________________________________________
06/05
for consideration…
……………
“The reasonable man adapts himself to the world;
the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself.
Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man.”
— George Bernard Shaw
……………
Top 10 Visuals | YCharts
** Great visuals here – market returns, dollar cost averaging, withdrawal rates, and more
Why Do People Donate? | Investment News
** An oft overlooked idea in charitable planning: giving is an identity statement, not a financial decision
Advisor Expertise Comes From Years of Education, Not Years of Experience | American College
** Clients need more advanced experts in retirement income planning per The American College’s Advisor Experience Study 2026. Their Wealth Management Certified Professional (WMCP®) program helped me immensely with this skill – take it completely free courtesy of Fidelity through Guild
*** https://catalog.guildeducation.com/programs/1880/?queryID=bae3a4e3a34b71fa0b99c780901660c8
How Rich Are You? | Giving What We Can
https://www.givingwhatwecan.org/how-rich-am-i
** A simple calculator showing how fortunate we are to be where we are… and how much our wealth can benefit others
North America’s 50 Best Restaurants | The Worlds 50 Best
https://www.theworlds50best.com/northamerica/en/list/1-50
** Travel ideas and visual inspiration… enjoy
____________________________________________
05/29
for consideration…
……………
“You are not a drop in the ocean.
You are the entire ocean in a drop.”
― after Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi
……………
Podcast: Vanguard | Acquired
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/acquired/id1050462261?i=1000768328125
** An in-depth look at the story of Jack Bogle, indexing, and the mutual company… Fidelity also is in the mix a few times
Book: Evicted ― Matthew Desmond
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/2276016
** A heart-wrenching yet absolutely stellar look into poverty in America – the book follows a handful of real people in their daily (sometimes hourly) struggle to find safe housing in the impoverished neighborhoods of Milwaukee. One of the few books that has completely changed the way I see the world and how I see myself in it
The Active Side of Indexing | CFA
https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/research/foundation/2026/active-side-indexing
Indexing isn’t purely passive… The authors dig into the idea of embedded momentum bias in cap-weighted indexes
Agentic AI Trading | Robinhood
https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/agentic-trading-overview/
** Automatic trading and portfolio management via your own AI agent
Liz Wiseman’s Research on Burnout | Big Think+
https://youtu.be/SX9_YBMISD8?si=3j4fsw6HgtT-zj27
** Liz Wiseman delivers the idea that burnout doesn’t happen because of too much work but too little impact
____________________________________________
05/22
for consideration…
……………
“The greatest gift you ever give is your honest self.”
― Fred Rogers
……………
** Monday is Memorial Day – make sure to take some time to remember those who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice for their nation **
Book: These Truths: A History of the United States | Jill Lepore
https://open.spotify.com/show/3YMNa9GIdrDzhGFkXnebug
** An incredible history of the US exploring the dichotomy of ‘these truths’ through our noble and vile past
Strategies for Managing Sequence of Return Risk | Kitces / IWI
** A deck from a video (which I can’t find the link to) but the deck has some good info/charts re: sequence of return risk
Why Don’t Philanthropists Build Anymore? | SSIR
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/philanthropy-new-gilded-age
** A massive and inspiring read about how the early titans of industry created institutions for public good and how our generation of billionaires is failing to meet the moment to give back
Summer Reading List | JP Morgan
https://privatebank.jpmorgan.com/nam/en/about-us/the-client-experience/summer-reading-list
** A good diverse group of reading reccos for your summertime reading
*** Don’t forget – the Fidelity SB Book Club is currently reading ‘Same as Ever’ by Morgan Housel
Love on the Spectrum, Season 4 | Netflix
https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/love-on-the-spectrum-season-4-cast-instagrams
** The new season is arguably more diverse, watchable, and emotional than the others – get the tissues and stretch those joy and empathy muscles
____________________________________________
05/15
for consideration…
……………
“Don’t make something unless it is both made necessary and useful;
but if it is both necessary and useful, don’t hesitate to make it beautiful.”
— Shaker Dictum
……………
The New Fed Chair | Y Charts
https://1645474.hs-sites.com/hubfs/Federal_Reserve_Chairman_Deck.pdf
** Y Charts delivers info about the new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh and revisits the past Fed Chairs in charts
The Six Megatrends That Define 2026 | Derek Thompson
https://www.derekthompson.org/p/the-6-megatrends-of-2026
** Lots of good charts of the megatrends shaping 2026 and beyond
Will the ‘Great Wealth Transfer’ transform the markets? | ML
https://www.ml.com/articles/great-wealth-transfer-impact.html
** Our frenemies over at Merrill have some good data in here about the Great Wealth Transfer and how to prepare
Ian Bremmer: Who Is Actually Running the World? | Trevor Noah
https://youtu.be/CqtvQ9uDBho?si=y7TGYYV1b_FHzXDp
** A candid, serious, and hilarious conversation w/ Ian Bremmer about the state of the world, and the value of ballpoint pens in Russia
Health Sector Strategy 2026–2028: Priorities for High-Impact Giving | The Life You Can Save
https://www.thelifeyoucansave.org/research/sector-reports/health-sector-report/
** A deep dive into data and ideas around what causes the most human deaths worldwide and how we can make progress
____________________________________________
05/08
for consideration…
……………
“It seems to me that the natural world is
the greatest source of excitement;
the greatest source of visual beauty;
the greatest source of intellectual interest.
It is the greatest source of so much in life
that makes life worth living.”
― David Attenborough
[happy 100th birthday]
……………
Schwab Launches AI-Powered Info
** Schwab and other competitors leading w/ AI solutions for questions, portfolio summaries, and market info
*** Also, Robinhood: https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/cortex-digests/
*** Also, Interactive Brokers: https://www.interactivebrokers.com/en/trading/ask-ibkr.php
Moral Ambition Community | The School for Moral Ambition
https://community.moralambition.org/
** A newly launched community uniting people from all over the world to make a difference with their talent
The Evolution of Advice :: Transactional –> Generational | IWI
https://publications.investmentsandwealth.org/iwpublications/library/item/march_april_2025/4269646/
** A good thought starter about our roles not just as planners and strategists, but as the stewards / coaches of multi-generational “wealth [that] may influence society over decades or centuries.”
Client’s Trust w/ Financial Tools Using AI | American College
https://www.theamericancollege.edu/sites/default/files/AI-Trust-Index.pdf
** A study that deep dives into what clients see as important when using AI financial tools
*** Go meta, have AI summarize this for you
Leisure’s Not a Luxury. It’s a Requirement for Top Leaders | HBR
https://youtu.be/a1Sk2LgtJno?si=RkdGs9BBfLtB21Bn
** Tips to get better at leisure – the oft-forgot needed piece to a striver’s life to refresh
____________________________________________
05/01
for consideration…
……………
“I will not follow where the path may lead,
but I will go where there is no path,
and I will leave a trail.”
— Muriel Strode, “Wind-Wafted Wild Flowers” 1903
……………
Book: Everything Is Tuberculosis — John Green
** A very well-written book telling the history of TB through the story of a boy who has it and the world that has changed around it
Schwab Making AI Push | WealthManagement.com
** A handful of different AI solutions being rolled out at Schwab to help customers as well as more new local branches
*** Also: Astor: https://www.wealthmanagement.com/ria-news/schwab-makes-ai-push-with-client-facing-agents-to-roll-out-in-june
*** Also: Public: https://www.financialadvisoriq.com/c/5130224/72607
Podcast: How Environment Affects Your Happiness | The Happiness Lab
** Yale’s Dr. Laurie Santos talks w/ U of Virginia Prof Leidy Klotz about how our surroundings affect our (and out client’s) happiness and productivity
Netflix Culture Deck
https://www.eosworldwide.com/blog/103242-eos-netflix-culture-deck
** The original Netflix Culture Deck from Reed Hastings and Patty McCord
The Magna Carta
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Magna-Carta
** History you should know … the doc that forms many of the underlying ideas of the of the constitution and the bill of rights
____________________________________________
04/24
for consideration…
……………
“A person’s mind,
once stretched by a new idea,
never regains its original dimensions.”
— Oliver Wendell Holmes
……………
CFP® Exam March 2026 Stats | CFP Board
https://www.cfp.net/news/2026/04/record-breaking-number-of-candidates-sit-for-the-cfp-exam
** Record number of takers, racially and ethnically diverse candidates, and women candidates
OpenAI Acquires Hiro | RIABiz
** Open AI purchasing AI Financial Planning company… scary / awesome ?!
High School Financial Education | Empower
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/money/high-school-finance-news
** 39 states require at least some financial education in high school… view this two ways: 1) we have so far to go to get the general public up to speed. 2) an educated next-gen will need advisors with more sophisticated tool and skills
42% Spend Inheritance Within a Year | ThinkAdvisor
https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2026/04/07/heirs-beware-42-spend-inheritance-within-a-year-study-finds/
** Some new studies backing up data from old studies… some of the spending is for student loans / new homes / etc. but a lot is wasted. Emphasizing the importance of next gen planning
Book: The Storyteller – Dave Grohl (drummer of Nirvana, etc.)
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/6177754
** A great read/listen (audiobook narrated by the author). Important music history… per the FC offsite
____________________________________________
04/17
for consideration…
……………
“Out of every crisis, every tribulation, every disaster,
mankind rises with some share of greater knowledge,
of higher decency, of purer purpose…”
― Franklin Delano Roosevelt
……………
The Petrodollar & Geopolitics | Lock Stock Finance
https://youtu.be/1kFV1Td2BQs?si=uycxgndXZo0_Jgxt
** A good simple explainer of the Petrodollar and how US Currency provides the foundation of global energy markets
The Great Wealth Transfer | CFFP
https://www.kaplanfinancial.com/resources/for-businesses/great-wealth-transfer
** The Great Wealth Transfer, advisor shortage, and ideas to retain next-gen clients. This + AI = the next great challenge for our industry
What to Expect From AI in the Future | American College
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shares/id1735576722?i=1000761813037
** Michael Finke and David Blanchett (PGIM) talk likely changes to financial planning from AI
How Great Advisors Build Trust with Herman Brodie | IWI
https://content.investmentsandwealth.org/podcast/how-great-advisors-build-trust-with-herman-brodie
** Mindfulness, vulnerability, and competence… building trust is the ultimate bedrock of our craft
Competition / Future | Boldin
** Client told me about this today… it’s pretty slick
____________________________________________
04/10
for consideration…
……………
“Perception is strong and sight weak.
In strategy it is important to see distant things as if they were close
and to take a distanced view of close things.”
― Miyamoto Musashi
……………
Annual Letter | Jamie Dimon
https://www.jpmorganchase.com/ir/annual-report/2025/ar-ceo-letters
** JPMC’s CEO Jamie Dimon just published his 2026 shareholders letter – as aways, it’s a balanced look towards the opportunities and risks of the future
Vanguard’s AI Portfolio Tool | Wealth Management
https://www.wealthmanagement.com/artificial-intelligence/vanguard_launches_ai_tool_portfolio
** New AI portfolio analysis tool launching for advisors
*** More: https://corporate.vanguard.com/content/corporatesite/us/en/corp/who-we-are/pressroom/press-release-vanguard-launches-expert-insights-equipping-advisors-with-ai-powered-portfolio-analysis-expertise-04092026.html
Note on this from Claude to me:
For your HNW practice specifically, the Morgan Stanley / BlackRock Aladdin combination and the Vanguard Expert Insights tool are probably most worth watching — they’re the ones trying to bring portfolio analysis intelligence directly into advisor-client conversations rather than just automating admin tasks.
Book: What We Owe the Future | William MacAskill
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/5688844
** Wordy and a bit complex, listen to the intro, Ch1, Ch 2, and Ch 10… a founder of Effective Altruism looks at how we should think of the long future
Take Care of Your Mental Health
https://www.fmrbenefits.com/topic/health/benefit/emotional-well-being-support-program
** We take on a lot of mental stress talking all day w/ clients – make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Fid benefit of 12 free sessions w/ a therapist (single or couple) or coach
Modern LA Home Tour | Local Project
https://youtu.be/-jItj2rAlvk?si=jxFW86UOsZHl4Ds3
** Massive inspiration from Ron Radziner of Marmol Radziner giving a tour of his personal residence in
LA
____________________________________________
04/03
for consideration…
……………
“There are but two powers in the world,
the sword and the mind.
In the long run the sword is always beaten by the mind.”
― Napoleon Bonaparte
……………
Podcast: What to Do if AI Comes For Your Job | Prof G
** Office Hours episode… Scott Galloway talks w/ LinkedIn’s Aneesh Raman about the future of work and AI
Five Client-Focused Imperatives for 2026 | IWI
** Some wicked good ideas on how to step up your role as an advisor for your current clients and future generations
Podcast: Jonah Hill | Tetragrammaton
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tetragrammaton-with-rick-rubin/id1671669052?i=1000758602289
** Getting better, and working with the best… some excellent takes from Jonah Hill on work, life, and creativity
The most innovative nonprofits of 2026 | FastCompany
https://www.fastcompany.com/91497282/not-for-profit-most-innovative-companies-2026
** An inspiring list of nonprofits, foundations, and DAFs
Ivy Lee Method | Todoist
https://www.todoist.com/productivity-methods/ivy-lee-method
** A proven productivity strategy to simplify and execute tasks
____________________________________________
03/27
for consideration…
……………
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times.
But that is not for them to decide.
All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
[03/25 = Tolkien Reading Day]
……………
Podcast: Lloyd Blankfein | Goldman Sachs’ Exchanges
** Hear from Goldman’s former CEO as he reflects about his history at the firm and managing risk during the financial crisis
Book: Moral Ambition — Rutger Bregman
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/moral-ambition/id1766132753
** An excellent and inspiring read about how to use our talent and drive to make the world a better place
Offended by the Algorithm: The Hidden Interpersonal Costs of Clients Seeking AI Second Opinion | Science Direct
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563226000312
** This research suggests that advisors develop biased against clients who seek financial info from AI. Clients should, and you should too. Remember to check your bias and serve clients the best we can
Next-Gen Investors: A Guide | CFA Institute
https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/research/reports/2026/next-gen-investors
** Key insights into the next gen building/inheriting wealth over the coming years
Chairmans Letter, 2026 | Larry Fink, Blackrock
https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/investor-relations/larry-fink-annual-chairmans-letter
** Larry is back; this year he’s making the case for expanding the opportunity of asset ownership
____________________________________________
03/20
for consideration…
……………
“In preparing for battle,
I have always found that plans are useless
but planning is indispensable.”
— Dwight D. Eisenhower
……………
2026 Giving Report | Fidelity Charitable
https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/insights/2026-giving-report.html
** A recap of all the good done in 2025
Podcast: Interview w/ Robinhood’s Vlad Tenev | The Knowledge Project
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-knowledge-project/id990149481?i=1000752864912
** Spend some time in the mind of one of the key leaders of the new age personal finance renaissance
Book: How to Live a Meaningful Life
https://designingyour.life/how-to-live-a-meaningful-life/
** Our Designing Your Life Friends Bill and Dave are back with a new book about living a meaningful life. One of my main takeaways: focus on getting more out of life instead of trying to get more in.
The 4-Percent Rule Was Never Failproof | IWI
** A deep dive into Bill Bengen’s 4% Rule – then and now
Compound Interest | Claude
https://claude.ai/share/08368440-1346-44e2-8a3b-800b8edebc23
** A compound interest / growth calculator inside of an ai chat… the future is fast approaching
*** Will not load on a Fidelity device
____________________________________________
03/13
for consideration…
……………
“The supreme art of war
is to subdue the enemy
without fighting”
— Sun Tzu
……………
Book: Unreasonable Hospitality ― Will Guidara
https://open.spotify.com/show/1dWbTgR5CioWUNYEgsCUKu
** A must-read about providing clients with thoughtful service
AI Fluency: Framework & Foundations | Anthropic
https://anthropic.skilljar.com/ai-fluency-framework-foundations
** Free AI Course – Fundamentals and Uses – best course I’ve taken thus far on AI
Investment Traps w/ Barry Ritholtz | Big Think
** Some easy to understand ideas and guides to talking investing w/ clients
Investment Behavior Is a Design Problem | CFA Institute
** We talk often about investor behavior, but should talk more about how we design tools (for us and for them) that anticipate and solve for this behavior
Podcast: Alex Honnold Interview | Rich Roll
https://www.richroll.com/podcast/alex-honnold-966/
** One of the greatest athletes of our times talks about his new adventure and how think of and manage risk
____________________________________________
03/06
for consideration…
……………
“The object isn’t to make art,
it’s to be in that wonderful state
which makes art inevitable.”
― Robert Henri
……………
Global Career Month | CFA Institute
https://global.cfainstituteevents.org/event/968e9a4f-b0af-4e5c-8c6b-e6d06839ff96/summary
** CFA institute is running lots of financial services career webinars all month long – intros / level ups / etc.
CFFP Alumni
** The College of Financial Planning is working on enhancing relationships with (and benefits for) alumni – they’re doing good stuff
‘Trump Accounts’ | Empower
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/money/trump-account-for-kids
** Info on the new accounts for kids – contributions / limits / etc.
Social Security / Medicare Signup | ChatGPT
https://chatgpt.com/share/69a9b5ce-20d4-8008-b44d-f3cf254568ad
** I recently helped my mom sign up for Medicare and Social Security… Chat GPT helped simplify and explain the actual sign up process
*** Visit on Home Computer / Blocked at Fid
Track Time | Clockify
** With Paul, I’ve been working on ways to better quantify (and be accountable to) ATC / Outbound / etc… mindset switch: focus on the behavior — commit to (and track) an amount of time spent vs. number of leads called / tasks done / etc.
____________________________________________
02/27
for consideration…
……………
“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable.
Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay.
The journey changes you; it should change you.
It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness,
on your heart, and on your body.
You take something with you.
Hopefully, you leave something good behind.”
― Anthony Bourdain
……………
Financial Advisors and the Risk of AI
** One of the best reads I’ve seen about how the AI revolution may affect us as Financial Advisors — read this twice, then make a plan on how to future-proof yourself. I’m always down to talk ideas
AI Hurtles Ahead | The Memo by Howard Marks
https://www.oaktreecapital.com/insights/memo/ai-hurtles-ahead
** A great read (or podcast listen)… one of the great investment writers of our time writes about (and uses AI to write about)… AI
An In-Depth Look At Managing Distributions in ETFs
** A very-in-depth look at how to better manage portfolio distributions in ETFs (to avoid tax drag) – long-story-short = Taxable PAS does this for you 🙂
Fundamentals of Alternative Investments | CAIA
https://caia.org/programs/fundamentals-2024
** An important subject… learn something new, get CFP CE credit, bill it to the Fidelity Education program
Go To The Bay Area And Eat…
Sorrel | SF
https://www.sorrelrestaurant.com/
The Winter Tasting Menu is magical… mag-i-cal
The Parthenon | SF
** Great Greek food – best tzatziki I’ve ever had
The Girl & The Fig | Sonoma
https://www.thegirlandthefig.com/
** Very French with good portion sizes
____________________________________________
02/20
for consideration…
……………
“Books… are very helpful, but
it would be a bad mistake to suppose
that one has made progress simply by
having internalized their contents.”
― Epictetus
……………
What Is AMT? Alternative Minimum Tax Explained for 2025
https://youtu.be/uogXUWL7wFo?si=NXPV-u49pDcaXgA8
** A good video re: AMT, especially with ISOs
Retirement Plan (2026 Oscar Nominee) | The New Yorker
https://youtu.be/2Mqa4zfJdx4?si=XFJ7EJQ43s-Eq-9w
** An artful look at a life in retirement
The Science Behind Dramatically Better Conversations | Charles Duhigg
https://youtu.be/K_RSZC0s8a4?si=OIJwe8jxa8U5AqT3
** The author of Supercommunicators talks about the right questions to ask to connect deeply
Book: The Light Eaters | Zoe Schlanger
https://www.zoeschlanger.com/the-light-eaters
** An incredible look at the complicated beings that are plants – you’ll never look at nature, an office plant, or a salad the same way again
Podcast: Nicolai Tangen | The Knowledge Project
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-knowledge-project/id990149481?i=1000750139675
** A great interview w/ Nicolai Tangen, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management (Norwegian Sovereign Wealth Fund) managing $2.1 trillion
____________________________________________
02/13
for consideration…
……………
“Win as if you were used to it,
lose as if you enjoyed it for a change.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
……………
Retirement Income Equilibrium | Kitces
** Some outdated figures for taxes / RMDs in here, but some good visuals to think through retirement spending
Podcast: Social Security Myths | American College
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shares/id1735576722?i=1000749438189
** Michael Finke hosts Martha Shedden of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts (NARSSA) to talk Social Security
The Thirteen Intentions of Philanthropy | SSIR
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/thirteen-intentions-of-philanthropy
** An in-depth look at motivations of giving… that can be some thought starters for better client discovery
Planning Separately | Empower
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/life/saying-i-do-to-separate-finances-news
** Info on the emerging trend of couples managing / planning finances separately
Flukes vs. Fate w/ Brian Klaas | Big Think
** “When you start to accept that you have profound influence on the world, but very limited control, you start to see the world differently.”
____________________________________________
02/06
for consideration…
……………
“The difficulty lies not in the new ideas,
but escaping from the old.”
— John Maynard Keynes
……………
Podcast: Retirement Realities | BlackRock, The Bid
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bid/id1441032838?i=1000748475600
** Jaime Magyera, Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory and Retirement Businesses, shares some great language and ideas around retirement planning
Book: The Soul of America | Jon Meacham
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/the-soul-of-america-the-battle-for-our/id1417131680
** The amazing historian Jon Meacham takes down the path of American History in times of home and fear to help us understand the present moment
Fid Charitable Giving Match
https://www.fmrbenefits.com/topic/wealth/benefit/fidelity-charitable-employee-match
** Fidelity matches employee gifts to Fid Charitable – 100% for $100 – start small if you need to, any giving makes the world better
AI for Personal Finances | Empower
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/money/ai-advantage-research
** Lots of consumers (any many of them are already clients) are using AI for personal finance questions / information – what makes the relationship with you stand against the tech?
Encouraging Clients to Give More While Alive
https://kindnessfp.com/not-giving-enough-money-to-kids-and-grandkids/
** Is giving to family added to your clients’ expenses in PGC? If not, could make an excellent line item to
prove out being both generous and having enough for retirement
____________________________________________
01/30
for consideration…
……………
“For we defeat death,
not by living forever but
by living by values that live forever.”
— Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
……………
New QMP | Fidelity
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/QMP.pdf
** Out this week is the new Quarterly Markets Perspective – new colors biz cycle chart, more green in key economic indicators, and spaghetti chart going strong
Use Philanthropy to Maximize Client Experiences | TPI
https://tpi.org/4-ways-professional-advisors-can-use-philanthropy-to-maximize-client-experiences/
** Some ideas on how to build client experience and satisfaction with philanthropy
Podcast: The Plumbing of the Financial System | Animal Spirits
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/animal-spirits-podcast/id1310192007?i=1000746668533
An easily digestible explanation of how blockchain can help financial services and excellent analogies for clients
Less Busy, More Strategy | Advisorpedia
** Busy ≠ productive… this article shares some good ideas to reduce busy-ness and increase effectiveness
Blank Calendar
** A simple & clean way to print calendar templates
*** Note: Visit at home / doesn’t pass Fid firewall
____________________________________________
01/23
for consideration…
……………
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has”
— Margaret Mead
……………
Prof.AI
** Simple tool to learn how to use AI better
Book: Greenlights — Matthew McConaughey
** An excellent part memoir, part philosophy book. Def get the audio book version – ready by the man himself. Alright, alright, alright
The 6 Disciplines of Strategic Thinking | Michael Watkins
** A framework to become more strategic
Behavioral Finance Bias | WEF
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2015/10/7-common-behavioural-biases-that-drive-investor-decisions/
** A refresh on some of the most common biases we see in clients
Have / Get a Hobby
https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/3-proven-health-benefits-having-hobby
** I’ve been working on a new hobby – this weekend’s challenge: try something new or get back to something old
____________________________________________
01/16
for consideration…
……………
“If you know the enemy and know yourself,
you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.
If you know yourself but not the enemy,
for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.
If you know neither the enemy nor yourself,
you will succumb in every battle.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
……………
Good Risk Questions | Kitces
** On the theme of client discovery, here are some alternative questions to consider for risk
Podcast: Brian Armstrong | Tetragrammaton
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tetragrammaton-with-rick-rubin/id1671669052?i=1000742567720
** Brian Armstrong, co-founder and CEO of Coinbase, talks w/ Rick Rubin – he’s very tech-CEO, but offers some insight into the future of Finance / Wealth Mgmt
Book: From Strength to Strength | Arthur C. Brooks
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/6070377
** An excellent book examining the natural decline and second (or third) act of our lives. A must read for clients nearing or in early retirement
Money Personalities
Using money personalities to better try to know and understand our clients
Vacation: Cambria
https://www.robinsrestaurant.com/
https://www.oceanpointranch.com/
** Close enough / far enough
____________________________________________
01/09
for consideration…
……………
“There are no solutions.
There are only trade-offs.”
— Thomas Sowell [Economist]
……………
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
https://www.truity.com/test/type-finder-personality-test-new
** A good new year habit is to self-reflect… I’ve always found personality tests to be helpful w/ that
Women’s Health | Pivotal Ventures
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/womens-health-should-top-worlds-agenda-pivotalventures-my4oc/
** A look at the impact of closing the women’s health gap
2026 Outlook | JP Morgan
** JPM’s 2026 outlook is an in-depth look at some of the trends and forces shaping modern markets and economies
Podcast: James Clear & Habits | The Knowledge Project
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-knowledge-project/id990149481?i=1000743409767
** Atomic Habits author James Clear talks about creating habits and developing processes
The School for Moral Ambition | 2025 Report
https://files.moralambition.org/SMA_2025_Impact_Report.pdf
** A look into the last year for an organization furthering humanity
____________________________________________
12/19
** Enjoy a list of the most commented on content from the year – taking a break for the holidays, back in your inbox in the New Year. Have a great holiday!!
for consideration…
……………
“Read, every day, something no one else is reading.
Think, every day, something no one else is thinking.
Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do.
It is bad for the mind to continually be part of unanimity.”
– Christopher Morley
……………
Fidelity Charitable Demo Site
https://www.demo-charitablegift.com/cgfweb/fc-donor/#/Dashboard/summary/
** An excellent way to give clients the tour of how to use Fid Charitable
Fed Rates | YCharts
https://1645474.hs-sites.com/hubfs/Fed_Rate_Cut_Deck.pdf
** A nice deck full of the recent history of rising and lowering rates
Designing The Life You Want — Bill Burnett | TEDxStanford
** This is an excellent look at how to be happier with your life. Currently reading their book Designing Your Life
How The Economic Machine Works by Ray Dalio
** A classic explainer about the inter-workings of the system – a great refresher for us finance people and a great reference for clients
Book: “Slow Productivity” ― Cal Newport
https://books.apple.com/us/book/slow-productivity/id6449955348
** In light of our conversation Wednesday Morning, Cal Newport is an excellent thought leader for modern work. This book gives some excellent ideas about how to view work, time, and long-term productivity
Culture: Led Zepplin
— Robert Plant:
— — Slow: https://youtu.be/nhVfuacsLDw?si=abKQVy00Zu9Z6jkv
— — Fast: https://youtu.be/RlNhD0oS5pk?si=p84r-YHLD5VL1uaz
— Jimmy Page can wail
— — https://youtu.be/xbhCPt6PZIU?si=vERWuTvdFaXzWBcr
— John Bonham, greatest drummer of all time
— — https://youtu.be/UvOm2oZRQIk?si=v2s_krpD4sbbzmKN
— Greta Van Fleet – New age, kid has the pipes
— — https://youtu.be/aJg4OJxp-co?si=7ha01UMCLyIB0UCX
____________________________________________
12/12
for consideration…
……………
“It’s a tragedy to live a smaller life than you have to.”
— Ramit Sethi
……………
An AI Bubble? | Howard Marks
https://www.oaktreecapital.com/insights/memo/is-it-a-bubble
** The latest memo explores the current market – is it a bubble? Great language in here to help clients understand the landscape
The First Decade Retirement Plan | Tony Isola
https://tonyisola.com/2025/12/the-first-decade-retirement-plan/
** Planning to live in retirement, especially years 1-10
2025 In Charts | Y Charts
https://1645474.hs-sites.com/hubfs/Charts_That_Defined_2025.pdf
** Downtown Josh Brown ‘hosts’ Ycharts Year in Charts – good stuff here
Book: Source Code: My Beginnings | Bill Gates
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/source-code-my-beginnings-unabridged/id1748956863
** From the early family days to the early days of MSFT – iconic nerd-fest history in the best way
Frank Gehry | LA Times
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-12-05/frank-gehry-iconic-buildings
** One of the best modern architects… Frank Gehry RIP
____________________________________________
12/05
for consideration…
……………
“Beware the barrenness of a busy life.”
— Socrates
……………
Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power | Jon Meacham
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/785866
** This excellent biography, detailing one of the great founders, gives a look into the founding of the nation, the complicated politics (and lifestyles) of the time, and how the early days have shaped where we find ourselves now
Leadership, Storytelling, & Investing | Sebastien Page
https://players.brightcove.net/1183701590001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6382098373112
** An interview w/ Sebastien Page, the CIO of TRowe talking about investing, psychology, and other great things
2026 Housing Predictions | Redfin
https://www.redfin.com/news/housing-market-predictions-2026/
** Some interesting things to think about for housing next year
2025 Goalkeepers Report | Gates Foundation
https://www.gatesfoundation.org/goalkeepers/report/2025-report/
** This year’s report is a bit more grim than years past… due to governments changing policy, more children will die this year than 2024. This delivers more details on what’s happening, who’s making a difference, and how we can help
Photos of the Year | AP News
https://apnews.com/article/associated-press-100-photos-of-2025-ap-photos-that-defined-the-year
A difficult to look at, but extremely important, view into events of the year… remember, part of our job is to help our clients understand our world and how their plans (to save/spend/give/etc.) fit into the present moment
____________________________________________
11/21
for consideration…
……………
“The most difficult thing is the decision to act,
the rest is merely tenacity.”
― Amelia Earhart
……………
Dollar Cost Averaging vs. Lump Sum | Nick Maggiulli
https://ofdollarsanddata.com/dollar-cost-averaging-vs-lump-sum/
** A great backed-by-date-argument for investing in a lump sum (vs. DCA)
Charitable Giving Strategies | American College
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/top-stories-november-the-american-college-cp-kpksc/
** Some excellent strategies to consider when planning giving
2026 Limits | Empower
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/work/can-contribute-401k-ira
** Limits for 2026 Retirement Accounts
Jill Lepore – History of the Constitution
https://jlepore.scholars.harvard.edu/
** Prof Jill Lapore has a new book out about the constitution… these are some good interviews:
Hasan Minhaj :: https://youtu.be/YH04fTL7ZXI
Author Events :: https://youtu.be/eiru6yOvxJk
Commonwealth Club :: https://youtu.be/6ioZJ15_KRQ
Pictures of The Year | Nat Geo
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/photography/graphics/pictures-of-the-year-2025
** Very very good
____________________________________________
11/14
for consideration…
……………
“But I know, somehow,
that only when it is dark enough
can you see the stars.”
― Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
……………
Behavioral Economics, Then and Now: A Conversation with Alex Imas
https://behavioralscientist.org/behavioral-economics-then-and-now-a-conversation-with-alex-imas/
** A good convo with an oft-forgot OG of the behavioral economics space
Six-Chart Sunday – Tailwinds
https://brucemehlman.substack.com/p/six-chart-sunday-tailwinds
** Some things are good – here are a few charts to enjoy the goodness
Reading, Writing, and Roth for Retirement | Investments & Wealth Inst.
** A nice visual and info re: 529 —> Roth IRAs
Work In Progress Report | Patagonia
https://www.patagonia.com/progress-report/
** A master class in presenting the crossroads of business and purpose
Global Inequality
https://g20.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2-G20-Global-Inequality-Report-Full-and-Summary.pdf
** Led by Joseph Stiglitz, the G20 Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Inequality report on global inequality is a massive, but important read
____________________________________________
11/07
for consideration…
……………
“The best way to find yourself
is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
……………
Celeste Headlee: 10 ways to have a better conversation | TED
https://youtu.be/R1vskiVDwl4?si=p2GOeRoIVB1x4-Yg
** Some simple yet very effective ideas for communicating better
Beginner’s Guide to the Eat the Frog Method | Todoist
https://youtu.be/ntSraUH4Rlo?si=hTtYxhGAt61HfQr9
** A productivity framework explained
Book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry — John Mark Comer
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/5019891
** I picked this book based on the title alone. Them quickly discovered it’s a very religious themed book written by a pastor. However, you can read this with that in mind or being completely secular and get some very good perspectives either way
How to Be Happy without Earning More | U Chi Booth
https://www.chicagobooth.edu/review/how-be-happy-without-earning-more
** As wealth managers, a part of our gig is helping clients extract the happiness from their money. Lots of good research in this to help with that
The Best Places to Go in 2026 | Conde Nast
https://www.cntraveler.com/story/the-best-places-to-go-in-2026
** Bliss
for consideration… items curated weekly to inform and inspire professional stewards of wealth
**An updated purpose of ‘for consideration…’ influenced by recent ‘Inspire’ conversations
*** key themes :: psychology, ethics/philosophy, profession/career, fairness/human flourishing
____________________________________________
10/31
for consideration…
……………
“The sea is dangerous and its storms terrible,
but these obstacles have never been sufficient reason
to remain ashore”
― Ferdinand Magellan
……………
A little ahead (vs. a little behind) | Seth Godin
** A short read re: the benefits of being ahead vs. being behind
Money and Happiness | Arthur Brooks
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/10/money-happiness-life-improvement-values/684650/
** An excellent look at the idea that money can make you happier, but only if you don’t care about it
Book: The Creative Act | Rick Rubin
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-creative-act/id1621808272
** A modern classic – how to think, feel, and experience creativity
The Science of Gratitude | Huberman Lab
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huberman-lab/id1545953110?i=1000733107120
** Some science-backed ideas to increase mental wellness w/ gratitude
The Wisdom of Reid Hoffman
https://casnocha.com/reid-hoffman-lessons
** Paypal Mafia, LinkedIn Founder, Venture… Reid Hoffman’s Chief of Staff Ben Casnocha delivers some lessons
____________________________________________
10/24
for consideration…
……………
“No house should ever be on a hill…
It should be of the hill. Belonging to it.
Hill and house should live together,
each the happier for the other.”
— Frank Lloyd Wright
……………
Tax Calculators
https://www.fidelity.com/calculators-tools/tax
** The Retirement Strategies Tax Estimator is joined by a few other super useful tools
Ian Bremmer: State of the World 2025 | GZERO Live
https://youtu.be/Ag5reHYF5-o?si=q0O3RnMfsRxNExrR
** Excellent info about the current state of geopolitics and the potential new world order
A Plan Is Not a Strategy | Harvard Business Review
https://youtu.be/iuYlGRnC7J8?si=ilhNRzmoZdeRWvcx
** Prof Roger martin outlines Plan vs. Strategy – helpful for defining goals for next year / practice plans
SSA & Shutdowns
https://www.ssa.gov/agency/shutdown/
** Good info on what the SSA does/doesn’t do during the shutdown
20 Years of Freaks | Freakonomics Radio
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000732282588
** Stephen Dubner interviewed by Debbie Millman – a super cool look at the life and story of one of the people to make econ pop culture
____________________________________________
10/17
for consideration…
……………
“Happy is the man who can make others better,
not merely when he is in their company,
but even when he is in their thoughts!”
— Seneca
……………
QMP – October Update | Fidelity
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/QMP.pdf
** New QMP… page 6 shows some green economic/market indicators (June was all orange), page 12 gives a good answer to the ‘highly valued market’ / ‘in a bubble’
Employment Agility – US vs. EU | Prof G Markets
https://www.profgmarkets.com/p/everyone-thinks-ai-is-a-bubble-now-what
** 3rd Item – An interesting look into the potential reason for US dominance over EU – the ease of firing
State Taxes in Retirement | Empower
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/money/states-that-dont-tax-retirement-income
** Quick simple guide to thinking of the state income tax arbitrage for retiring Californians
Ichigo Ichie :: One Moment, One Opportunity
The Japanese concept of “Ichigo ichie” is a great thought practice on how to approach client meetings
Pictured: Winning entries for Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025 | BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx253vrd931o
** Enjoy some stellar works of nature as art
*** Pro Tip: Right click and “open image in new tab” to see it larger in better def
____________________________________________
10/10
for consideration…
……………
“To pay attention,
this is our endless and proper work.”
― Mary Oliver
……………
2025 Geography of Giving | Fid Charitable
https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/insights/2025-geography-of-giving.html
** An interesting look at how people give across the country
Driving Growth, Delivering Excellence | Investments & Wealth Institute
https://publications.investmentsandwealth.org/iwpublications/library/item/issue_3_2025/4294095/
** White paper dives into 6 strategies to attract, serve, and retain today’s wealthy investors
Why “Following Up” Is Hurting Your Business | Ari Galper
https://www.advisorperspectives.com/articles/2025/10/07/why-following-up-hurting-business
** I’m guilty on this one… article offers reasons to kill ‘just following up’ language and ideas of how to better shape the conversation
2026 Tax Brackets | WSJ
https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/taxes/income-tax-brackets-2026-bbd1863d
** New tax brackets for next year
Gold and Bitcoin as Portfolio Diversifiers: Why Interest Is Rising Now | The Bid
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bid/id1441032838?i=1000731081021
** A good overview of the basics of Gold and Crypto as alternative investment diversifiers
____________________________________________
10/03
for consideration…
……………
“To attain knowledge, add things every day.
To attain wisdom, subtract things every day.”
— Lao Tsu
……………
The Power Playbook w/ Prof Jeffrey Pfeffer | Masterclass
https://www.masterclass.com/classes/the-power-playbook
** Stanford prof Jeffrey Pfeffer talks proven methods for gaining workplace power – building your brand / becoming irreplaceable / etc.
How ‘Proportion Dominance’ Gets in the Way of Effective Giving | Behavioral Scientist
https://behavioralscientist.org/how-proportion-dominance-gets-in-the-way-of-effective-giving/
** Giving-focused, but applies to everything in human decision-making – think investing, sequence of return risk, etc.
*** “Proportion dominance shows that when making decisions, we can be motivated by our perceived impact on solving a problem and less sensitive to the absolute effects of our actions.”
The 25 Most Influential Magazine Covers of All Time | NYT
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/01/t-magazine/magazine-covers-esquire-rolling-stone.html
** Super interesting look at pop culture and history over the years
50 Best – North America
https://www.theworlds50best.com/northamerica/en/list/1-50
** California very represented
How to AI-Proof Your Career, Spot Market Hype, and Raise Critical Thinkers | Prof G
** Great all-around advice about using AI in work and life
____________________________________________
09/26
for consideration…
……………
“The things you think about determine the quality of your mind.
Your soul takes on the color of your thoughts.”
― Marcus Aurelius (Meditations: 05/16)
……………
Are We In A Recession? | Fidelity Viewpoints
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/are-we-in-recession
* “In this economy?!” – I’ve heard a rumble of this here and there… this VP digs into some charts about where we are
Guaranteed Income: A License to Spend — David Blanchett / Michael Finke
https://www.protectedincome.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/RP-28_BlanchettFinke_v2.pdf
** So many of our clients underspend, guaranteed income helps prevent that
*** “…retirees who hold a higher percentage in annuitized income spend more than retirees with an equal amount of non-annuitized wealth.”
Book: Nudge (The Final Edition) — Richard H. Thaler & Cass R. Sunstein
https://books.apple.com/us/book/nudge/id1566099463
** A fantastic look at human behavior and how small changes (especially in defaults) can make a big difference
Living Into Our Values | Brene Brown
https://brenebrown.com/resources/living-into-our-values/
** Help to get clarity on your values
Laugh: Argument – Monty Python
“… I’m telling you, you did.”… “I did not…”
____________________________________________
09/19
for consideration…
……………
“You can’t go back and change the beginning,
but you can start where you are and change the ending.”
— C.S. Lewis
……………
Fidelity Education Benefit
https://www.fmrbenefits.com/topic/life/benefit/educational-assistance-program
** It’s open enrollment… I’m a broken record on this, but for the new members of the team: be sure to take advantage of this benefit – $5K+/yr in free education benefits – learn more about finance, get a certification, speak a different language – all covered
Book: Psychology of Money, Morgan Housel
** New special edition available for the 10-year anniversary of this finance classic
Empower Roth Conv
https://www.empower.com/learning_center/calculators/retirement-conversion-analyzer.shtml#/
** Visuals in this calc are nice and simple but super illustrative
Fed Rates | YCharts
https://1645474.hs-sites.com/hubfs/Fed_Rate_Cut_Deck.pdf
** A nice deck full of the recent history of rising and lowering rates
Designing The Life You Want — Bill Burnett | TEDxStanford
** This is an excellent look at how to be happier with your life. Currently reading their book Designing Your Life
____________________________________________
09/12
for consideration…
……………
“Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves.”
― Henry David Thoreau
……………
Fid’s 2024 Environmental Sustainability
[Copy Attached]
We’re all well versed w/ talking the talk, but here’s how the company walks the walk for sustainability
International ATM Refunds | Fid Cash Mgmt
[Screenshot Attached]
** Got to try out my Fid Cash Mgmt Acct at an international ATM, and as the brochure reads, you get a full refund of fees. For reference, the ATM I used charged a set rate transaction fee + a percentage-based currency fee… it did the transaction in Mexican Pesos, but gave me USD from the ATM itself
Fair Shakes | JPM Eye on the Market
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fair-shakes/id1367963156?i=1000724595212
** I admit it, I have a work crush on Michael Cembalest and the JPM team, but this one is very good. Nice stuff to help answer client questions around policy and economy
Book: Poverty, By America | Matthew Desmond
https://matthewdesmondbooks.com/
A heart wrenching look at poverty in America and inspiring ideas on how we can solve it by Princeton Prof and Pulitzer Prize–winning author Matthew Desmond
Mexico, It’s Nice, I Recommend…
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun:
** All inclusive, secluded nature-filled location, amazing staff, beautiful pools and beaches with a reef just off the coast
Swim w/ Whale Sharks:
https://www.heavenunderearthdivers.com/whale-sharks
** Hotel pickup, two magical guided swims with the whale sharks, a swim session at Isa Mujeres with the best guacamole and ceviche I’ve ever had
____________________________________________
08/28
for consideration…
……………
“For the correct analogy for the mind is not a vessel that needs filling,
but wood that needs igniting…”
— Plutarch (essay “On Listening”)
……………
BBB & Charitable | Fidelity Charitable
** Slides from a webinar about how the Big Beautiful Bill impacts Charitable Giving
*** In long form: https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/articles/obbb-tax-reform.html
Gen Z Trends That Could Disrupt Markets | Morgan Stanley
** An interesting look at the future of markets per MS summer intern survey
S&P 500 Map
Very nice dynamic visual showing weighting of S&P 500 Stocks
Book: What I Ate in One Year by Stanley Tucci
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/what-i-ate-in-one-year-unabridged/id1729113368
** A fun journal on eating, life, and celebrity
Culture: LL Cool J on Freestyle
https://youtu.be/wiw12Hxwhik?si=Ytnah-k1HY4_YrDT
** Legend, still has it in force
____________________________________________
08/22
for consideration…
……………
“If people don’t either love or hate your work
you just haven’t done all that much.”
― Tinker Hatfield
……………
HSAs & Medicare | Fidelity
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/hsas-and-medicare
** How to use HSAs for health expenses and Medicare in retirement
School for Moral Ambition
** Great inspiration for thinking about the large issues we face and how we can solve them
Book: The Most Important Thing — Howard Marks
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-most-important-thing/id428027107
** An excellent read about finance and investing – some gems from this book are the foundation of how I talk to clients about investing
Storytelling Playbook | Prof G
https://www.profgalloway.com/see-what-others-miss-the-prof-g-storytelling-playbook/
** Sales = Relationships = Connection through Stories… a good mapping of how to be a better storyteller from Prof G Media
Altering Mosquito DNA to Stop Malaria | Gates Notes
https://www.gatesnotes.com/work/save-lives/reader/the-buzz-stops-here
** A super interesting innovation – make mosquitoes not able to carry the malaria parasite
____________________________________________
08/15
for consideration…
……………
“All great events hang by a single thread.
The clever man takes advantage of everything,
neglects nothing that may give him some added opportunity;
the less clever man, by neglecting one thing,
sometimes misses everything.”
— Napoleon
……………
Tax Smart Investing | WM Insights
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/tax-smart-investing
** A nice, simple, and short client-friendly explainer of tax strategies
CalPERS + Social Security
** Some good info on how SS interacts w/ CalPERS Pensions
A Comprehensive Guide to ETFs (2nd Edition) | CFA Institute
https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/research/foundation/2025/guide-to-etfs
** CFA Institute breaks down ETFs – it’s a huge doc, but worth skimming for topics to cover w/ self-directed clients
Get Out In Nature
** Shinrin-yoku — forest bathing — can improve focus and lower stress. Dive into this article to find out more about what it is and how it works
Culture: Even In Arcadia – Sleep Token
https://music.apple.com/us/album/even-in-arcadia/1800532611
** Sleep Token’s new album is stellar, very much in their genre mixing style. II could be the cleanest drummer of the modern era
____________________________________________
08/08
for consideration…
……………
“If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead and rotten,
either write things worth reading or do things worth writing.”
― Benjamin Franklin
……………
Mismanagement We Believe Deck
** Some great visuals supporting the We Believe: The cost of mismanagement can be far greater than the cost of management
Fidelity $$ –> Central Coast
https://sp.fmrcloud.com/sites/Impact/SitePages/ASN-Regional-Grants-Program.aspx
** Through the Associate Sustainability Network Regional Grants Program 2025, Fidelity is granting money to support The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County
¿No hablas español? ¡No hay problema! Learn Spanish w/ Busuu
https://catalog.guildeducation.com/programs/2978/?queryID=e7025f798877f48d7ab74f7043674903
** Offered through Guild for Fidelity Employees – costs completely covered. Online lessons, an AI chat, and live 1:1 lessons w/ a personal teacher
Book: The Life You Can Save by Peter Singer
https://www.thelifeyoucansave.org/book/
** Free 10th anniversary ebook – a great book exploring the morals and framing of giving
Chill Vibe
https://www.youtube.com/@MusicLabChill
** Great chill electronic music for vibing / working / reading
____________________________________________
08/01
for consideration…
……………
“We don’t rise to the level of our expectations,
we fall to the level of our training.”
— Archilochus
……………
Questions to Prep New Book Clients
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/questions-to-ask-an-advisor
** Sometimes clients don’t even know what to ask – this is a simple send-over that can help a new client prepare for their first meeting w/ you, great for book building
Who Will Fund AI’s $3 Trillion Ask? | Morgan Stanley’s Thoughts on the Market
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thoughts-on-the-market/id1466686717?i=1000719029834
** Andrew Sheets, MS’s Head of Corporate Credit Research, explains why credit markets may play a critical role in AI
Lean In to Tax-Smart Investment Advice | ThinkAdvisor
** More evidence that being good at paying the government less is a needed skillset: “Sixty-nine percent of retail investors consider it important for their advisor to help reduce their tax bill”
An SMA-ish Thing in Retirement Accounts | Empower
** An interesting dive into the institutional side of the 401K Business
This Heroic Nurse Climbs 1000-ft Ladders to Save Lives | Gates Notes
https://www.gatesnotes.com/heroes/heroes-home-topic/reader/heroes-in-the-field-agnes-nambozo
** An incredibly interesting/inspiring story of Agnes Nambozo, who puts in massive effort to vaccinate children in Uganda
____________________________________________
07/25
for consideration…
……………
“Discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life.”
— Susan David
……………
New QMP
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/QMP.pdf
** These keep getting better – lots of good slides here for client conversations
The Biggest Risks and Opportunities in Latin America | Prof G Markets
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prof-g-markets/id1744631325?i=1000717864635
** Monica de Bolle, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, breaks down Latin America’s economic landscape and examine how tariffs could impact its largest economy — Brazil
How America Saves, 2025 | Vanguard
** Our old friends back with a new report on American’s retirement savings
Book: The Power of Regret | Daniel H. Pink
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-power-of-regret/id1573857038
** In a very accessible read (listen) Daniel Pink explores how to use reflection of regrets to inform better future decisions
The Why and How of Effective Altruism | Peter Singer
https://www.ted.com/talks/peter_singer_the_why_and_how_of_effective_altruism
** An oldie-but-goodie… thoughts around how we individually, but especially with our clients, use wealth to lead positive impact
____________________________________________
07/18
for consideration…
……………
“If you seek tranquility do less.” Or (more accurately) do what’s essential… to do less, better… If you can eliminate it, you’ll have more time, and more tranquility. Ask yourself at every moment, “Is this necessary?”
― Marcus Aurelius (Meditations: 04/24)
……………
The Value of a Diversified Portfolio
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/value-of-diversification.pdf
** Excellent slides for clients – slide 6 / slide 9 … *chef’s kiss*
What’s Inside The New Tax Act? | Fid Viewpoints
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/one-big-beautiful-bill
** Good client-friendly info on the new tax act
Buffett’s Intangible Moats | Kai Wu
https://www.sparklinecapital.com/post/buffetts-intangible-moats
** A massive data-driven analysis of Warren Buffet’s investing strategy
Clara E. Mattei | Professor of Economics at The University of Tulsa
https://www.claramattei.com/home
** Just heard her on a podcast this week – some excellent thoughts/research around economics and society/politics
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boundary_Waters_Canoe_Area_Wilderness
** An excellent getaway for nature, fishing, and no cell service
____________________________________________
07/03
for consideration…
……………
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator, with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
— The Declaration of Independence, 1776
The full version: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript
……………
New Fidelity Labs Chief on Developing Products More Efficiently with AI
** A great interview w/ the new leader of Fidelity Labs, a part of Fid we often don’t hear about
Book: Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
https://books.apple.com/us/book/team-of-rivals/id381556206
** A stellar book about Lincoln in the context of politics – structuring his cabinet not of political yes-men, but of actual political rivals, to create a group where the best ideas win
Personal List Management
** I’ve been using this to help manage my personal life and it’s stellar – recurring tasks, inbox, categories, and tasks by natural language
The Science Of Happiness: Dr. Laurie Santos | The Rich Roll Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rich-roll-podcast/id582272991?i=1000715114611
** A great extended talk with an expert on happiness with some stellar tips to increase your own happiness and wellbeing
Character Strength Test by VIA Institute
** A great test to discovery your character strengths
____________________________________________
06/27
for consideration…
……………
“Cecil Graham: What is a cynic?
Lord Darlington: A man who knows the price of everything, and the value of nothing.”
― Oscar Wilde, Lady Windermere’s Fan
……………
Fidelity Charitable Demo Site
https://www.demo-charitablegift.com/cgfweb/fc-donor/#/Dashboard/summary/
** An excellent way to give clients the tour of how to use Fid Charitable
How To Withstand Market Uncertainty and Reframe Value
https://insights.theamericancollege.edu/advising-through-uncertainty-study/
** Interesting research and ideas on how to be a better advisor in times of uncertainty from The American College
Bill Ackman: Everything You Need to Know About Finance and Investing in Under an Hour | Big Think
https://youtu.be/WEDIj9JBTC8?si=F93Sopox8QU8m-xg
** This is a great top-to-bottom explainer of business and financial markets
Welcome to Wrexham | Hulu
https://www.hulu.com/profiles?next=/series/c6906d50-d06c-40d1-a57c-1885d9dc2fef
** I know I’m a little late to the party on this one, but this show is fantastic – great stories of people and community
World’s 50 Best
https://www.theworlds50best.com/awards/scholarship.html
** The list of 2025’s world’s 50 best restaurants is out… save some PTO time
____________________________________________
06/20
for consideration…
……………
“A man who does not think for himself does not think at all.”
― Oscar Wilde
……………
Fidelity Cash Management Account
https://www.fidelity.com/spend-save/fidelity-cash-management-account/overview
** A wicked good way to help clients manage cashflow and access during summer travel
Book: Why Nations Fail
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/598229
** An incredible and easy to follow look into the social/political/economic structures that allow societies to flourish or suffer
Breaking Out of the c3 Box
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/tax-code-support-c4-organizations
** Did you know 501(c)(4)s are different than 501(c)(3)s? Very important difference to know about when guiding clients to charitable outcomes
More on Repealing the Laws of Economics | The Memo by Howard Marks
Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-memo-by-howard-marks/id1521551570?i=1000713365176
Read: https://www.oaktreecapital.com/insights/memo/more-on-repealing-the-laws-of-economics
** A new Memo from Howard Marks is always a good thing… this one dives into the implications of governmental intervention in economies
The (Uncertain) Payoff from Alternative Investments: Many a slip between the cup and the lip?
https://aswathdamodaran.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-uncertain-payoff-from-alternative.html
** A good data-backed piece from Aswath Damodaran about Private Equity
____________________________________________
06/13
for consideration…
……………
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.
Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
— Howard Thurman
……………
From Tariffs to Tech: A Midyear Market Reset
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/midyear-roundtable
** Some of our favorite Fidelity people talking about markets / economies / etc.
IRAs Left to A Trust
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/inherited-IRA-rules-for-trusts
** Good info guiding benes on an IRA
Nearly Two-Thirds of Americans Made Financial Decisions They Regret Based on Bad Online Info
https://www.barrons.com/advisor/articles/financial-planning-bad-online-advice-086cb2d5
** Sometimes I feel like I just deliver google-able information to clients… but, in reality, our knowledgebase and the relationship-trust component add huge value to client outcomes … thanks to Dawn for the insight
*** The research: https://www.cfp.net/-/media/files/cfp-board/knowledge/reports-and-research/consumer-surveys/cfp-board-financial-misinformation-report-2025.pdf
The Most Powerful People You’ve Never Heard Of | Freakonomics Radio
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000709488377
** A super interesting look behind the scenes of commodity traders, the people who actually broker the deals of hard cash for physical goods
For When You’re Next in The Bay Area…
Explore: Asian Art Museum
Stay: Hyatt Regency SOMA
https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/sford-hyatt-regency-san-francisco-downtown-soma
Eat: Stella Kenwood
https://www.stellakenwood.com/
Eat: Ippudo
____________________________________________
06/05
for consideration…
……………
“If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.”
— Seneca
……………
Income Planning Worksheet
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/income-diversification.pdf
** An oldie-but-goodie to reference – lots of info and visuals for clients – income, rate of return risk, etc
Book: Retirement Planning Guidebook — Wade Pfau
https://retirementresearcher.com/books/
** A great fundamentals book – each chapter dives into principles – investments, income, social security, etc. Drew showed a stellar chart from this book today
*** Some can be a bit dry, so bring a beach chair, a fun beverage in a tumbler, and the book to the beach – I read my copy at Haskell’s Beach, northern Goleta
“Fault-Finder Is a Minimum-Wage Job” | Freakonomics Radio
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000710491671
** A great interview with Economist Austan Goolsbee, newest president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and past chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President Barack Obama
TIME100 Philanthropy 2025
https://time.com/collections/time100-philanthropy-2025/
** Some people doing some important things… standard heavy hitters are at the top, but scroll down to see some more interesting figures
So Many Steves
https://share.libbyapp.com/title/9801004
** An interesting interview series about the evolution of the work of Steve Martin, one of the greatest comedians of all time
____________________________________________
05/30
for consideration…
……………
“To believe in something, and not to live it, is dishonest.”
― Mahatma Gandhi
……………
How Asset Location May Help Reduce Taxes
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/asset-location-minimize-taxes
** A nice simple article/visual about asset location for tax efficiency, part of the stellar preso from Drew and Chris yesterday… I client I was sitting next to yesterday really keyed into this part of the conversation
Is Fed Independence At Risk? | Goldman Sachs Exchanges
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/goldman-sachs-exchanges/id948913991?i=1000709165267
** A nerdy but insightful discussion from former Fed Vice Chair Richard Clarida and the Hoover Institution’s John Cochrane on whether the Fed’s independence is in jeopardy
Uncharitable Documentary
** A great look at how we do charity in America, how it’s broken, and ways to fix it
*** The original TED talk: https://youtu.be/bfAzi6D5FpM
Book: On Tyranny — Timothy Snyder
https://books.apple.com/us/book/on-tyranny/id1195458571
** This isn’t so much a book on politics, but on civics and ethics. Wicked good – I’ve read it twice in the last week
*** Warning – this book is explicit about past events of history (esp. 1930-50 Europe), so do take care when approaching it
Chat GPT
** Have you used it yet? You should… have it redo your LinkedIn About or something… it’s wicked good
____________________________________________
05/23
for consideration…
……………
“…It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
— Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address, 11/19/1863 (Everett Copy)
……………
Webinar: Hidden Potential: Donating Alternatives and Complex Assets | Fidelity Charitable
https://events.fidelitycharitable.org/donating-alternatives-assets/
** This is not internally focused, so may have some good insights we don’t normally see re: Fid Charitable. I’ve met Zeke James before – he’s super sharp and his team is focused on getting Fid Charitable to be used by outside advisors
Beyond Investment Illusions | Hartford Funds
https://www.hartfordfunds.com/dam/en/docs/pub/prospectingmaterials/Brochures/P3320.pdf
** I got this originally from a MF Vendor back when I was at Morgan Stanley – they’ve updated it back then but still does a wicked good job at showing investing in visual concepts
Book: The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-happiness-advantage/id420522405
** Happiness research and positive psychology focused on improving business mindset and success
J.P. Morgan Summer Reading List
https://privatebank.jpmorgan.com/nam/en/about-us/an-elevated-experience/summer-reading-list
** Speaking of books, JPM is getting in the listicle game w/ this list of summer reads
Kiasmos live for Cercle at Citadelle de Sisteron, France
** The perfect blend of chill + energy for a great 3-day weekend
*** Notice around 0:28 Ólafur Arnalds bows to the mountain, showing respect for the place… make this a weekend of taking account and giving thanks
____________________________________________
05/09
for consideration…
……………
“A blazing fire makes flame and brightness out of everything that is thrown into it.”
— Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
……………
IM vs. PM – Tax Efficient Either Way
** A Nice visual showing Fidelity as an Investment Manager (IM) via SMA or the Portfolio Manager (PM) via UMH – either way, we can better client outcomes with tax management strategies
How to Cook an Egg and/or Save The World with Chef Jose Andres
https://youtu.be/iEA_rZNVkk8?si=23SEFcjWQ3yhlXdw
** A great interview from Hasan Minhaj – Chef Andres is truly what the world needs right now
My new deadline: 20 years to give away virtually all my wealth | GatesNotes
https://www.gatesnotes.com/work/save-lives/reader/how-to-cut-child-mortality-in-half-again
** An inspiring new goal from Bill Gates for the Gates Foundation :: ~$108B —> ~$0 in 20 yrs
Book: The Algebra of Wealth — Scott Galloway
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-algebra-of-wealth/id6448880024
** An interesting perspective at building wealth that combines mental frameworks with tried-and-true tactics
Apple Certified Refurbished
https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished
** For any personal items you might want, this is a great resource … I just nabbed an iPad Air for like ~$200 off the retail
____________________________________________
05/02
for consideration…
……………
“To live is the rarest thing in the world.
Most people exist, that is all.”
— Oscar Wilde
……………
We Believe: It’s not what you earn, it’s what you keep.
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/taxes-we-believe-brochure.pdf
** The Taxes We Believe brochure is packed w/ easily digestible info and nice visuals
Buy the Dip: The Draw and Dangers of Contrarian Investing! | Aswath Damodaran
https://aswathdamodaran.blogspot.com/2025/04/buy-dip-draw-and-dangers-of-contrarian.html
** Basically everything from Aswath Damodaran is a good read – this looks at buying the dip via quantitative study and behavior
Productivity for Mortals | Oliver Burkeman
** A great look into productivity paired with living a good life and being mentally healthy
Meditation in Apple Fitness+
https://fitness.apple.com/us/workout-type/meditation/1561872398
** A really nice way to calm/focus – 5+ min sessions, hooks to apple watch for heartrate, and has a mood log to track mental health trends
Culture: Photography of France Leclerc
** Incredible views into life around the world
*** Also relevant, married to Richard Thaler
____________________________________________
04/25
for consideration…
……………
“Competence is how good you are when there is something to gain.
Character is how good you are when there is nothing to gain.
People will reward you for competence.
But people will only love you for your character.”
— Mark Manson
……………
Tax Savvy Withdrawals in Retirement
https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/retirement/tax-savvy-withdrawals
** In TEI, we often talk about accumulation, but there’s tax efficiency in decumulation (spending) as well… this is an excellent piece to reference during income planning conversations
Guild Education Benefit
https://home.guildeducation.com/
https://fmrbenefits.com/topic/life/benefit/educational-assistance-program
** An excellent benefit from Fidelity… $5,250/yr of education reimbursement + 100% coverage of approved professional designations (CFP / CFA / CEP / CPWA / ChFC / ESG / CAIA).
*** These are ‘separate buckets’ you can fill on a yearly basis – the professional designations count toward the $5,250, but that’s not a ceiling as long as the designation is 100% covered.
Money Talks
https://www.empower.com/the-currency/money/money-talks
** Empower’s Money Talks survey dives deep into how people talk about money in society — in summary, not enough. Always remember that a large part of our jobs is to do the valiant work of helping more people know more about money.
How The Economic Machine Works by Ray Dalio
** A classic explainer about the inter-workings of the system – a great refresher for us finance people and a great reference for clients
Love on the Spectrum
https://www.netflix.com/title/81338328
** The 3rd season is out this month — an excellent watch for joy, sorrow, laughter, and all the other wonderful things that come with being human.
____________________________________________
04/18
for consideration…
……………
You have to assemble your life yourself—action by action.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
……………
Fidelity Charitable 2025 Giving Report
https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/content/dam/fc-public/docs/insights/2025-giving-report.pdf
** See the numbers behind some incredible work to make the world a better place and, giving appreciated assets is super tax efficient
Book: “Slow Productivity” ― Cal Newport
https://books.apple.com/us/book/slow-productivity/id6449955348
** In light of our conversation Wednesday Morning, Cal Newport is an excellent thought leader for modern work. This book gives some excellent ideas about how to view work, time, and long-term productivity
Podcast: Mark Carney on the Prof G Pod
** A great interview with Canada’s new PM. Dude is an econ rockstar and excellent speaker… give it a listen, especially his tone around CA’s stance in future dealings w/ the US
How Some RIAs Chase Growth During Market Uncertainty
** Some good thoughts and strategies from advisors outside of the Fidelity walls on helping clients during uncertain times
Culture: What Does the L.A. Midcentury Dream House Look Like in the Age of Fire?
** How great California architecture has, and can better deal with future climate change risks
____________________________________________
04/11
for consideration…
……………
“Be steady and well-ordered in your life
so that you can be fierce and original in your work.”
— Gustave Flaubert
……………
Fid Late Cycle Guide
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/DiscussionCycleGuide.pdf
** A helpful discussion tool re: late-cycle positioning for clients thinking tariffs will drive us into recession.
Your Career Path Doesn’t Have to Be a Straight Line | Harvard Business Review
** My WMT and I are, in part, focusing on career next steps… what can you work on now to position yourself for the next move (up / sideways / etc.) ?
*** Fid = #21 on LinkedIn’s 50 Best Large Employers to Grow Your Career
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-top-companies-2025-50-best-large-employers-grow-usrme/
Nespresso Vertuo
https://www.nespresso.com/us/en/choose-your-technology-vertuo
** Have been using this at home for a few months and super impressed by the flavor and smooth texture they’re able to get into a cup of coffee.
Jamie Dimon Annual Letter
https://www.jpmorganchase.com/ir/annual-report/2024/ar-ceo-letters
** A masterclass in corporate communication – essentials + heart. I’m going to say it – #Dimon2028!
Scott Harrison on First Time Founders with Ed Elson / Prof G Pod
** An interview w/ Scott Harrison, the founder of Charity: Water – excellent insight into fundraising, tech, and top-tier non-profits.
____________________________________________
04/04
for consideration…
……………
“If the world is cold, make it your business to build fires.”
― Horace Traubel
……………
Defensive PAS
https://www.fidelity.com/go/dsk-umh/defensive
** Incredibly valuable for a) clients who want to experience less vol and b) as a pressure relief valve to help clients stay invested but transition to less vol from Total Return PAS.
Larry Fink’s 2025 Annual Chairman’s Letter to Investors
https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/literature/presentation/larry-fink-annual-chairmans-letter.pdf
** Larry’s is one of the best annual letters each year… for 2025, there’s a bit of talking the book, but lots of good insight about democratizing the future of finance
The Surprising Health Benefits of Swearing
https://time.com/7272667/swearing-curse-words-health-benefits/
** I’m sure y’all know I’m a believer in this idea… some great science backing the use of some fun vocab
Emotional Well-Being Support Program
https://www.fmrbenefits.com/topic/health/benefit/emotional-well-being-support-program
** Each of us get 12 covered sessions w/ a licensed therapist/coach, and for covered partners/souses, they get their own 12. Pro tip – the Fid High Deductible Health plan doesn’t cover couples/fam therapy, but Lyra benefits do (that’s 24 per couple)
Anthony Bourdain – Our Last Full Interview | Fast Company
** A fantastic talk about creativity, life principles, and being open to experiences
____________________________________________
03/28
for consideration…
……………
“When we take people merely as they are, we make them worse;
when we treat them as if they were what they should be,
we help them become what they can be.”
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
……………
Seeking peace with dividend stocks
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/diversifying-with-dividend-stocks
** A nice piece that has good Dividend info for the DIY or the Delegate crowd, including good references to the SMA.
Book: Everything is F*cked — Mark Manson
https://books.apple.com/us/book/everything-is-f-cked/id1431742103
** A classic on hope and finding your way through struggle and troubling times — philosophy + buddhism + edge
Toward a new gospel of wealth
https://www.fordfoundation.org/news-and-stories/stories/toward-a-new-gospel-of-wealth/
** An unyielding take on Carnegie’s Gospel of Wealth for the new age
Denise Chisholm on Bloomberg (She’s our Rockstar Dir. Of Quant. Strat.)
** “…stocks are potentially looking through something…”
Culture: Led Zepplin
— Robert Plant:
— — Slow: https://youtu.be/nhVfuacsLDw?si=abKQVy00Zu9Z6jkv
— — Fast: https://youtu.be/RlNhD0oS5pk?si=p84r-YHLD5VL1uaz
— Jimmy Page can wail
— — https://youtu.be/xbhCPt6PZIU?si=vERWuTvdFaXzWBcr
— John Bonham, greatest drummer of all time
— — https://youtu.be/UvOm2oZRQIk?si=v2s_krpD4sbbzmKN
— Greta Van Fleet – New age, kid has the pipes
— — https://youtu.be/aJg4OJxp-co?si=7ha01UMCLyIB0UCX
____________________________________________
03/21
for consideration…
……………
“The unspectacular things are the important things.” — Dieter Rams
……………
Brochure: We Believe time in the market is more important than timing the market
https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/timing-we-believe-brochure.pdf
** A slick brochure that can be a great resource when answering the question “is now the right time to start investing in the current environment/market/etc.?”
Book: “And There Was Light” — Jon Meacham
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/and-there-was-light-abraham-lincoln-and-the/id1615150999
** May be the best history book I’ve ever read – follows the life of Abraham Lincoln often using quotes from writings/letters of those around him
Libby App
https://libbyapp.com/interview/welcome#doYouHaveACard
** Wicked good place to find books/audiobooks all free via local library acces
Podcast: Ten Myths About the U.S. Tax System | Freakonomics Radio
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000699094163
** A master class about taxes, deficit, and the national debt
Being a professional
— Matt Damon :: https://youtu.be/CuEQPZEIbag?si=C7JgIX61PgKckqSm
— Jerry Seinfeld :: https://youtu.be/MaSvlSHNJEk?si=R89PsIwIZMPCsmL5
** Sometimes putting in the work is just putting in the work
____________________________________________
03/14
for consideration…
……………
“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak;
courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.”
— Winston Churchill
……………
NUA – Level Up Your Planning Conversations
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement/company-stock
** Huge value add to clients w/ stock in 401Ks
*** Sometimes Fidelity will be the Custodian, sometimes not. If not, the stock will be sent to the custodian (ex: Computershare) then you’ll have to TOA it back to Fid – TOA/consolidation!
Podcast: Shares, Ep. 26: Empowering Clients Through Financial Planning
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shares/id1735576722?i=1000698735334
** From the American College – Michael Finke, PhD, CFP® + Jean Chatzky talk tailoring client approach to suit women at any stage of life
How To Be Successful | Sam Altman
https://blog.samaltman.com/how-to-be-successful
** From Sam Altman before he was ChatGPT famous
Morning Brew Email Newsletter
https://www.morningbrew.com/r?kid=8677c0
** One of my daily follows, highly recommend
Charity: Freedom Reads
** Very cool charity that builds libraries in prisons
____________________________________________
03/07
for consideration…
……………
“If you want to go quickly, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together.”
― African Proverb
……………
Fidelity PI Competitive Insights
https://sp.fmrcloud.com/sites/PI_Competitive_Insights
** Subscribe for weekly updates about news re: Schwab / Vanguard / MS / WF / etc.
** Is a good way to be in the know when having consolidation conversations.
Book: The Ascent of Money — A Financial History of the World | Niall Ferguson
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-ascent-of-money/id357917453
** Incredibly fascinating world history, artfully written
Gimmie Credit | Memo by Howard Marks
https://www.oaktreecapital.com/insights/memo/gimme-credit
** New one from Howard Marks – very heavy on credit markets detail, chef’s kiss
Court of Gold — Behind the Scenes of Men’s Basketball in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris
https://www.netflix.com/title/81739527
** Inspiring, even if you don’t like sports
How to be happier in 5 steps with zero weird tricks | Laurie Santos
** Laurie Santos is Amazing – you can still take her Yale class online for free
____________________________________________
02/28
Hi Fam –
One of my favorite things to do is share insightful and interesting things, as you may have noticed in the team chat over time. With some encouragement from our coach I’m going to make it more official and on cadence (but – for sure – not routine), sending a list of items at the end of each week. They will be topics centered around our shared work and culture with an aim to inform and inspire thought, and often purposefully from unconventional sources.
Give it a read, and open door for any feedback or ideas.
……………
“Read, every day, something no one else is reading.
Think, every day, something no one else is thinking.
Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do.
It is bad for the mind to continually be part of unanimity.”
– Christopher Morley
……………
Here are some things for consideration…
Cost of Mismanagement DSK
“Studies estimate that professional financial advice can add up to 5.1% to long-term returns.”
** Times are weird, scary. Remember that just by being here, being a grounded and objective sounding board, we provide an essential service to help keep clients on track.
Book: Age of Revolutions – Fareed Zakaria
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/age-of-revolutions-unabridged/id1717839193
“…explores the revolutions—past and present—that define the chaotic, polarized, and unstable age in which we live.”
** Highly, highly recommend / audiobook read by the author
“Stay Informed with Bremmer” on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/stay-informed-with-ian-bremmer-6641776014072524800
** Excellent Geopolitical Insight
Guidance to Mediate
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/happier-meditation/id992210239
“The Storytelling Fundraiser: The Brain, Behavioral Economics, and Fundraising Story” by Russell James
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXlw33tLHLH9l_UaXbv6Eo7hV2WDallZq&si=WvmEw-L-1llyuUMO
Podcast: JP Morgan Eye on the Market w/ Michael Cembalest
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eye-on-the-market/id1367963156
** One of the few I prioritize listening to the day it comes out