Jed Mengel, CLU, RICP

10/20/2026

Are You Overdue for a Family Meeting?

Have you had a chance to bring everyone together for a family meeting lately? Family meetings can be a meaningful way to bring everyone together and ensure there is a shared understanding of your financial picture.

These conversations give us the opportunity to provide a high-level overview of your strategy and the work we are doing on your behalf. Depending on your needs, we may answer questions about our investment approach, revisit your key goals, or discuss important topics such as estate planning. We also use this time to review where essential documents are stored and make sure everyone knows how to access them when needed.

Most importantly, family meetings play a critical role in preparing beneficiaries and heirs for the future. By bringing everyone together now, you give your loved ones clarity, confidence, and direction. They’ll know exactly who to turn to, where important information is located, and how to navigate financial decisions when the time comes. This can significantly reduce uncertainty, stress, and confusion during difficult or transitional moments.

Some family members may be interested in beginning a relationship with us or having us review their own financial strategy. Others simply appreciate the reassurance of knowing things are being thoughtfully managed and value the chance to meet the team supporting you.

We believe these meetings can be incredibly valuable. Many of our clients choose to make them an annual tradition. Over time, they often strengthen relationships, encourage open communication, minimize potential conflicts, and promote a collaborative approach to planning.

If it’s been a while since your last family meeting, this may be a great time to bring everyone together. We would be happy to help coordinate a session—either in person or virtually—whenever it works best for you. Contact me today at 515-267-2673. I am always here to help!

10/15/2026

I'm proud to share that I earned the Wealth Planning Fiduciary credential through the Wharton Wealth Planning Fiduciary Program, developed exclusively for Equitable Advisors in partnership with the Wharton Aresty Institute of Executive Education.

This experience provided valuable insights into wealth planning strategies while offering the opportunity to learn from distinguished faculty and collaborate with talented colleagues. I'm grateful for the experience and look forward to applying these insights to better serve my clients.

10/15/2026

October marks National Financial Planning Month, making it an ideal time for a financial health check-up. Just as you schedule annual medical exams, this month offers a natural opportunity to assess your financial situation, acknowledge your successes, and make
strategic adjustments before year-end.

Why work with a financial professional?

People at every life stage—whether working, approaching retirement, or already retired—seek financial guidance. While their specific concerns vary, from maximizing workplace benefits to managing debt or planning for long-term care, they share a common goal: greater confidence in their financial decisions.

Here are a few common topics that often come up this time of year:

Year-end strategies: Are there charitable contributions or investment adjustments to consider before December 31?

Account contributions: Have you reviewed your retirement or health savings accounts?

Goal check-in: Small steps made now can support longer-term goals.

Looking ahead: It’s never too early to consider what you'd like to prioritize in the upcoming year.

Everyone’s financial situation is unique, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

If any of this has been on your mind lately, let’s connect. I’d be happy to answer questions or simply start the conversation. Call me today at 515-267-2668 and we can review your situation.

10/13/2026

Retirement may seem decades away, but the smartest financial moves start today. 💡

The earlier you begin saving and investing, the more time your money has to grow. Whether you're just starting your career or climbing the corporate ladder, creating a retirement plan now can help you build long-term financial freedom and peace of mind.

Your future self will thank you for every step you take today. 🌱➡️🏖️

Contact me today at 515-267-2673 and we can start building your plans for the future!

10/09/2026

October is a month we set aside for a special focus. Most months, it makes sense to look at anything that might need immediate attention, such as a major expense or questions you might have. But once a year, there’s real value in stepping back and looking at everything at once.
Not just the parts under pressure. All of it. That’s the posture we try to bring to October.

I just want you to know I'm here if you’d like to use this time to talk.

Why? Because the full picture is almost always more useful than a series of close-ups. If a conversation sounds worthwhile, I’d love to hear from you.

Reach out to me today at 515-267-2673. I am always here to help!

10/06/2026

📊 Did you know that October is National Financial Planning Month?

Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or refining an established strategy, a solid financial roadmap can help you feel more confident about your future. 🗺️

Here are some tips to consider:
✅ Set realistic goals
✅ Track spending & savings
✅ Review insurance & retirement goals

📲 Have questions or need help getting started? Reach out to me at 515-267-2668 today and let’s get connected!

10/01/2026

October Financial Tips

• If you have children off to college next year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) window opens once again on October 1. Encourage your child to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to increase their chances at available scholarships and grants.

• File your income tax return by October 15 if you requested a six-month extension back in April.

• If you want to establish a retirement plan outside of your work-sponsored program, you must open the account by your tax filing deadline plus any extensions, which is October 15 for most.

• Medicare open enrollment begins, providing your opportunity to drop or switch plan coverage.

09/22/2026

09/16/2026

September Is Life Insurance Awareness Month