Evan Nolan, Financial Advisor - Northwestern Mutual

09/14/2026

My son's in-town soccer league had its first game this weekend (a 5-1 win, in which he scored a goal, not to brag about him too much). Our league 5th/6th grade boys still has a full complement of teams, but the overall enrollment in the league is down, nearly 200 players. The main culprits are: 1. finding coaches to volunteer; and 2. the bigger reason of parents moving their children to travel teams. Which can run thousands of dollars a year rather than the couple of hundred associated with the in-town league.

Youth sports are a big investment—and not always in the ways you might expect. As the new seasons are starting, it’s worth understanding the full financial picture.

See how much youth sports and activities really cost and how to budget for them.

08/27/2026

A study back in May of 2023 found that four in ten Americans couldn't handle an unexpected $400 expense. A large part of that is because Americans, in general, are much better at spending than we are saving.

How do you make sure you are prepared for the unexpected? An emergency fund.

Building an emergency fund for life’s unexpected twists and turns is a key part of any financial plan. How much or how little depends on your situation. I can help you get started and stay motivated.

Learn how much you should typically save in an emergency fund, as well as when to adjust your savings goal up or down and when to use it.

08/11/2026

Money may talk, but Americans don’t like talking about money. Studies have shown however, that the benefits to talking about money with friends and relatives improves both your personal and financial health. Read this article for ideas on how to get beyond your fear, and then I can help you get started.

Talking about money with friends and relatives can be hard, but the benefits are proven. Here’s how to get started.

08/03/2026

With my daughter attending her high school incoming Freshman orientation, it made me realize how quickly the summer is over and the new school year is here!

And with a new school year comes new school costs. With a daughter in drama and a son in soccer, things can get expensive. Particularly as we've invested in and dropped karate, flute, tuba, swimming, and many other activities along the way.

When your kids are still figuring out what they love, it can help to try before you buy. Here are some tips to help you save this back-to-school season:

1. Shop your home first
2. Scour often for discounts
3. Get paid to shop
4. Time your purchases carefully
5. Combine your efforts
6. Try before you buy

Want to learn more? Check out this article: http://spr.ly/6183BE7kCT