Blog
Is Your College Savings Strategy Quietly Hurting Your Child’s FAFSA Eligibility
July 21, 2026
Saving for college is important—but where you save can make a significant difference when it comes to financial aid eligibility. Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning explains how FAFSA evaluates income and assets, and shares strategies that can help families maximize both their savings and potential financial aid opportunities.
Trump Accounts: New Ways to Support a Child’s Financial Future
July 20, 2026
Every parent wants to give their children a strong financial foundation. From 529 plans and custodial Roth IRAs to the new 530A "Trump Accounts," understanding today's savings options can help families make informed decisions that support education, retirement, and long-term financial success.
Mid-Year Outlook 2026: Key Investor Lessons for the Second Half of the Year
July 20, 2026
The first half of 2026 reminded investors that headlines don't always dictate market performance. Despite inflation, geopolitical tensions, and ongoing uncertainty, diversified portfolios continued to benefit from staying invested and focused on long-term goals.
What's Going On With Oil Prices Right Now (And Why You Should Care)
July 16, 2026
Oil prices have been on a roller coaster in 2026, driven by geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, and shrinking global reserves. In this article, Financial Advisor Jake Buckwalter breaks down what's causing the volatility, why it matters beyond the gas pump, and what investors should be watching in the months ahead.
Volatility in the Dollar, Gold, and Bitcoin: What's Behind the Moves?
July 15, 2026
The U.S. dollar has regained strength after a turbulent year, reshaping the outlook for gold, Bitcoin, and global markets. Learn what these shifting trends mean for investors and why maintaining a diversified, long-term portfolio remains the best strategy.
Understanding the SECURE Act 2.0
July 9, 2026
Beginning in 2026, higher-income employees will face new rules for 401(k) catch-up contributions under SECURE Act 2.0. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Mica Dauch explains who is affected, why the change was made, and what it means for your retirement savings strategy.
Consumer Financial Health: Navigating Record Highs and Historic Lows
July 2, 2026
Consumer spending continues to power the U.S. economy, even as confidence remains historically low. Summit Puri examines the mixed signals shaping today's economic landscape—from record household wealth and resilient retail sales to elevated debt, lower savings, and persistent inflation—and explains what long-term investors should focus on.
SpaceX Just Changed the IPO Game Forever — Here’s What It Means for Your Portfolio
June 25, 2026
SpaceX's historic IPO has captured investors' attention and sparked questions about whether now is the time to buy. In this article, John-Mark Young explores what makes SpaceX unique, why valuation matters, and how disciplined investors can participate in innovation without abandoning a long-term financial plan.
John-Mark Young Named to AdvisorHub’s 2026 Advisors to Watch — Fourth Consecutive Year on the List
June 25, 2026
Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers is proud to announce that John-Mark Young, CFP®, has been named to AdvisorHub's 2026 Advisors to Watch ranking for the fourth consecutive year. The recognition highlights his commitment to comprehensive financial planning, tax-aware strategies, client service, and sustained practice growth.
Financial Organization: Where to Start When Your Money Feels Overwhelming
June 23, 2026
Many people avoid looking closely at their finances because they don't know where to start or fear what they might find. In this practical guide, Associate Financial Advisor Drew Hodgson explains how taking a simple snapshot of your income and expenses can turn financial stress into clarity and help you build a plan for moving forward with confidence.
Understanding IPOs: What They Are and How to Evaluate One
June 22, 2026
With recent headlines surrounding the potential SpaceX IPO capturing investor attention, many people are asking what an IPO actually is and how to evaluate one. In this educational guide, Financial Advisor Nick Allen explains how companies go public, what to look for in an IPO prospectus, and why a great company doesn't always make a great investment at any price.
Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired: Lessons from Dave Ramsey That Changed My Life
June 16, 2026
More than 30 years ago, Joe Mains and his wife discovered Dave Ramsey's teachings on a clearance rack cassette tape, a moment that forever changed their finances, marriage, and future. In this personal story, Joe shares how the same principles that helped him win with money recently inspired a life-changing health transformation and why lasting change begins when you're truly "sick and tired of being sick and tired."
Get a Head Start: How to Open a Trump Account for Your Child
June 11, 2026
As Trump Accounts prepare to launch on July 4, 2026, families can take early steps now to understand eligibility, contribution rules, and how to open and fund these new tax-advantaged custodial savings accounts designed for long-term growth.
Does Refinancing Your Mortgage Still Make Sense? Key Factors Every Homeowner Should Consider
June 10, 2026
Refinancing your mortgage can lower your monthly payment and free up cash to support other financial goals, but it's important to understand the true costs involved. Learn how interest rates, discount points, closing costs, and your break-even point can help determine whether refinancing is the right move for your financial future.
May 2026 Market Update: Record Highs, Rising Rates, Inflation, and a New Fed Chair
June 2, 2026
U.S. stocks reached new all-time highs in May despite persistent inflation concerns and rising interest rates. In this month's market update, Summit Puri explores the impact of elevated bond yields, the Federal Reserve leadership transition, and what these developments mean for long-term investors.
When Should You Claim Social Security? Key Factors to Consider Before Filing
June 1, 2026
Deciding when to claim Social Security is one of the most important retirement decisions you'll make. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Mica Dauch explains the advantages of delaying benefits, important earnings limits to understand, special considerations for married couples, and how the breakeven age can help guide your claiming strategy.
Calendar vs. Threshold Rebalancing: Which Strategy Helps Keep Your Portfolio on Track?
June 1, 2026
Rebalancing is often called one of investing's "free lunches" because it can help reduce risk and improve portfolio discipline without requiring investors to take on additional risk. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Clay Reynolds explains the differences between calendar and threshold rebalancing, why both approaches matter, and how a hybrid strategy may help investors stay aligned with their long-term financial objectives.
A smarter college savings strategy can create opportunities far beyond tuition.
May 27, 2026
When it comes to saving for a child’s future, flexibility matters. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning shares why UTMA accounts can be a powerful alternative to traditional college savings plans, offering families greater freedom to use funds for education, life expenses, and long-term financial opportunities.
Are Your Finances Actually Healthy? 5 Ratios That Can Help You Find Out
May 27, 2026
Real Talk: Are my Finances “Healthy”? Almost everyone on God’s green Earth pauses at some point and asks themselves the same question: “How am I doing financially?” “Am I saving enough for retirement?”“Do I have too much debt?”“Are my expenses reasonable for what I earn, or am I one unexpected event away from financial stress?” What makes these questions so difficult is that there’s no such thing as a truly “average” life. People have different incomes, careers, family situations, ages,...
Energy Shock or Inflation Spiral? Understanding Why CPI Hit a Three-Year High
May 18, 2026
April’s CPI report showed inflation climbing to 3.8%, the highest level since 2023, largely fueled by sharp increases in energy prices tied to Middle East oil disruptions. While core inflation remains more contained, elevated energy costs continue to create uncertainty for consumers, markets, and Federal Reserve policy decisions.
