RiverStone Private Wealth Advisors

10/30/2026

Retirement can put even strong marriages to the test, especially when one partner wants to spend and the other wants to save. The right money habits can help turn that tension into teamwork. Here are a few worth building into your relationship.

Build a plan you both believe in: Couples with a financial plan are more than twice as likely to feel confident about retirement, while regular “money dates” can help keep that plan an ongoing conversation.

Talk about what money represents: Spending may reflect a desire for freedom, while saving may reflect a need for security, so start with the values behind the numbers.

Commit to real transparency: You don’t need joint accounts, but both partners should know where everything is and how the household finances would work if one spouse were no longer there.

See how stronger money conversations can help couples stay aligned in retirement: https://bit.ly/4sqO1x7

Financial experts reveal the simple conversations and strategies that keep spouses connected and thriving after they stop working.

10/23/2026

Open enrollment is here, and healthcare costs are expected to rise again in 2027. Before you simply renew last year’s plan, take a closer look at what may be changing.

Don’t just compare premiums: Review deductibles, provider networks and out-of-pocket maximums to see which plan could actually cost you less based on the care you expect to use.

Watch your income estimate on the marketplace: If you receive advance tax credits, update your projected 2027 income when circumstances change to reduce the risk of owing money back later.

Review your full benefits package: Check for HSAs, EAPs and other workplace programs you may be able to use to help cover healthcare needs or expenses.

See what to review before choosing your 2027 health plan: https://bit.ly/4zAOMpR

As healthcare costs continue to climb, use these strategies to select an insurance plan with the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

10/16/2026

Scammers want you to act fast. Your best defense? Do the opposite. If a request involving your money feels urgent, pause and check the source independently before sending money or sharing information.
What if that panicked call from a loved one sounds exactly like them? Don’t rely on the voice alone. If someone unexpectedly asks for money, hang up and call them back using a number you already know.
A family “safe word” isn’t just for kids. Consider choosing a private word or question your family can use to confirm urgent requests. It’s one simple way to verify who’s really on the other end of a call or text.
Your bank’s name pops up on your phone. Looks legitimate, but is it? Instead of clicking a link or calling the number in the message, use the number on the back of your card or go directly to the bank’s website.
That security code sent to your phone is for you, not the person calling or texting you. If someone unexpectedly asks you to read it back, don’t. Sharing the code could give them access to your account.
“High returns, little risk” may sound like a great investment. It should also make you stop and ask questions. Research the opportunity and verify who you’re dealing with before sending any money.

10/02/2026

Most people plan carefully for retirement finances, but not always for how they’ll spend their time. Around year three, after the travel, projects, and long-delayed plans slow down, the real adjustment can begin.

Expect the third-year shift: The first two years often stay busy. After that, many retirees may need a new sense of structure and purpose.
• Ask better questions: What brings you joy? Would volunteering, part-time work, or learning something new feel fulfilling?
• Plan for the long game: With retirement potentially lasting decades, it helps to think about goals for the next 5, 10, or even 20 years.
See how building a post-career routine early could help you create a more fulfilling next chapter: https://bit.ly/42ZyNDJ

Many retirees struggle with a “third year slump” after the excitement of early retirement fades, but creating a meaningful routine can improve happiness and longevity.

09/25/2026

It takes more than money to be a rich retiree. Maintaining wealth and happiness in retirement requires a combination of smart financial habits and intentional lifestyle choices:

Spend with Purpose: Balance a mindful budget with enjoying your wealth on experiences that bring you joy.
Invest Wisely: Diversify your portfolio and determine a safe withdrawal rate to ensure your wealth lasts.
Prioritize Well-being: Live with a sense of purpose, stay active, and build a team of trusted professionals to help manage your legacy.
Discover 12 habits wealthy retirees use to stay rich and happy: https://bit.ly/kplngjkkbjerTh

From prioritizing spending and investing wisely to using debt thoughtfully, rich retirees get it right. Ready to build a roadmap for your meaningful journey?

09/18/2026

Women are set to control $30 trillion in personal wealth by 2030, yet only one-third of financial advisors are female. Bridging this gap isn’t just about equality but meeting the needs of female clients. Learn how empowering women in finance is beneficial: https://bit.ly/3DqDVqQ

As more women take on household CFO roles, increasing female representation in the industry is critical.

09/15/2026

Looking for fresh perspectives on living well? “Life and How to Live It” is a podcast hosted by Dr. Rocco Chiappini, a retired physician, featuring conversations with a diverse group of professionals about health, lifestyle, and making the most of everyday life.
Michelle recently had the pleasure of joining Dr. Chiappini as a guest for a conversation about personal finance and appreciated the opportunity to contribute to this thoughtful series.
The link below will take you to our podcast episode. While you’re there, explore his other conversations—and consider following the podcast or sharing it with friends and family who might enjoy it, too!

Listen to the full episode via the link below!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-and-how-to-live-it-with-dr-rocco/id1877114487?i=1000788841866

09/11/2026

09/04/2026

42% of Americans wouldn’t know what to do if a family member died today, and that jumps to 56% among those without an estate plan.

📄 Get organized before you talk: Have your plan in place, then make sure family knows where to find your will, financial information, and other important documents.

❤️ Explain choices that may surprise them: Unequal inheritances or unexpected decisions can create tension, so sharing the reasoning behind them may help reduce confusion later.

👥 Choose who’s in charge carefully: One executor with alternates, or a neutral third party, may be simpler than asking multiple people to make every decision together.

See six ways to make estate-planning conversations easier and more productive: https://bit.ly/3UbRjHP

It can be hard to talk about estate planning, especially when it comes to your parents, siblings or children. Here's how to get past the awkwardness.