Susie Steel, CFP

One of the most common “hidden” risks I see is too much cash sitting idle because it feels safer. While it might seem like a good idea to keep extra cash on hand, it’s often a missed opportunity. Cash that isn’t being used or invested isn’t working for you. Inflation gradually chips away at its value, and over time, it becomes harder to keep up with rising costs.

I recommend taking a step back and asking what that cash is really for. Is it for an emergency fund? Or is it just sitting there out of habit? If it’s not earmarked for something specific, it might be time to consider putting it to work in a way that aligns with your goals—whether that’s through investments, savings, or other strategies that can help it grow over time.

When we don’t actively manage our cash, we risk missing out on opportunities that could provide better returns, whether through the market or other avenues. Having the right balance is key, and it's always a conversation worth having.

May 28 is the International Day of Action for Women’s Health 🌿
A global reminder of the importance of health awareness, education, and access to resources that support long-term wellbeing.

It’s also a good reminder that health and financial planning often go hand in hand—being prepared, informed, and proactive can make a meaningful difference in long-term security and peace of mind.

As parents, we want to help our kids succeed, but when it comes to supporting them financially as adults, finding the right balance can be tricky. Whether it’s helping with student loans, buying a home, or supporting a career transition, the financial support you offer can impact both their future and yours.

I’ve written a blog about how to help your adult children financially without sacrificing your own financial stability. It’s all about finding a healthy balance that allows you to support them while staying true to your own goals.

Should You Be Helping Your Adult Kids Financially? Susie Steel is a fee-only Wealth Manager in Indianapolis, IN, working with successful families on their multi-generational finances, including adult financial support.

Just got back from Olympic National Park and it’s hard to put into words how incredible it is out there 🌲

From the coastline to the mountains to the rainforest, every part of it felt like something completely different. It’s one of those places that really makes you slow down and take it all in.

Grateful for the chance to step away for a bit and experience something like this.

On this Memorial Day, we take a moment to honor those who gave everything for our freedom.

We are forever grateful for their sacrifice and for the opportunity to live the lives we cherish because of it.

“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” — Warren Buffett

Your plan shouldn’t require you to choose between being responsible and living a meaningful life. There is room for both.

Came across this and thought it was worth sharing 👇

Carmel Food Truck Nights is back at Ginther Green, running Fridays through the fall. They’re also adding Taco Tuesdays this year, which is a nice addition.

Looks like they’ll have rotating food trucks each week, a longer schedule this season, and some extra shaded seating added too.

Always nice seeing local events like this come back around in the area—definitely planning to meet up with friends there a couple nights this season. See the link in the comments below for more info.

I told my daughter something the other day that surprised me: I've become quite comfortable having conversations with people who are seriously ill or nearing the end of life.

It wasn't something I set out to do; it’s just where life and work have taken me.

What I’ve learned through these conversations is that people don’t want to feel forgotten. They want to connect, even when life feels anything but normal. Sometimes what starts as a quick check-in becomes a deeper conversation. Other times, it’s just a simple, kind "hello."

If you're supporting a spouse, parent, or friend through this season, know that I'm thinking of you. It’s tender ground.

Check fraud is on the rise, with losses reaching billions in recent years—and one of the biggest risks still comes from paper checks. Scammers often steal checks from the mail and alter them through a process called “check washing,” allowing them to change the payee and amount while keeping the original signature.

To reduce your risk, use nonerasable gel pens, avoid leaving checks in unsecured mailboxes, and monitor your payments closely. Even better, consider switching to digital payment methods, when possible, as they can offer added security. Click the link in the comments to learn more.

A friend and her husband recently bought a home and got hit with the surprise expenses that show up fast. They also had zero patience for “we’ll do it later.” They wanted landscaping quotes, projects scheduled, and decisions made immediately.

That approach isn’t wrong; it just changes how you manage your cash flow and plan for the unexpected.

If you’re buying a home (or moving into a “new to you” home), it can help to plan upgrades in phases and keep a cash cushion that matches your personality and your timeline.