Take a look at our September newsletter!
FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
616-514-3831
MattsonFinancial.com
September 2025
Built on Trust, Powered by Excellence Why Only the Best Make the Cut at Our Firm
Finding the ideal advisor to join our team is about more than just skills. It’s about discovering someone who shares our heartfelt dedication to client-centric service. We nurture an environment where our clients’ goals and dreams guide our recommendations, rather than prioritizing a paycheck for the agent. Our advisors flourish by embracing the ethos of transformation over transaction. Unfortunately, some experienced advisors prioritize quick, commission- driven sales over meaningful client engagement, which is in direct conflict with our philosophy of building lasting, trust-based, and client- driven relationships. We continuously evolve to provide every client with personalized planning that enhances their financial journey. I’m proud to say we nurture our advisors in-house, often for years, before they meet with clients independently. We make sure they understand the foundational reasons behind our recommendations and why we strive to keep every client’s plan relevant and flexible.
Practicing Patience Sometimes, transitioning a prospective client into our firm can take years. I’ve worked with individuals for long periods, helping them achieve significant milestones such as business sales and structured financial planning. My wife often marvels at my patience with clients, especially when I might lack the same at home! Our advisors begin by immersing themselves in the intricate processes of client management — diligently handling paperwork, managing transfers, and processing money requests. They execute agreements with other companies and ensure funds are reinvested with the appropriate custodian(s). When miscommunications occur, they usually come from custodians, frustrating our advisory team and our clients. Once advisors master these essential operations, they assist senior advisors, learning everything from client interaction to crafting comprehensive presentation packages that fulfill our clients’ aspirations. Our detailed, tailored approach encompasses Social Security, Medicare, insurance, estate planning, tax planning, long-term care, and net income distribution strategies. By comparison, less comprehensive plans put forth by advisors elsewhere appear woefully incomplete. As noted by experts like Ed Slott, a top educator for financial advisors, many advisors focus on acquiring money rather than holistic planning. Even if they manage to achieve high returns, many of them only generate a sizable asset stream to the IRS. That’s why we’re dedicated to understanding our clients’ desires and crafting personalized, holistic plans. And that is also one more reason preparing our advisors to work independently with clients typically takes several years. Lessons in Integrity As a young man working in my family’s lumberyard, I learned valuable lessons. My brother and I spent summers working 40-hour weeks. In those days, we called the cash register “the till,” and at the end of every day, the money in the till had to match the day’s sales. I still vividly remember my father’s teachings. One particular day, I ended with an overage of exactly $5. My father was upset, explaining it likely meant
Continued on Page 3 ...
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
MattsonFinancial.com | 1
Starting your estate planning early might not sound like the most exciting thing, but it’s one of the smartest decisions you can make. Whether you’re in your 30s and just bought your first home, in your 40s raising kids, or in your 50s thinking about retirement, having a solid estate plan gives you and your loved ones a priceless gift: peace of mind. CONTROL OVER YOUR WISHES One of the most significant advantages of early estate planning is control. You have the opportunity to decide exactly how your assets will be distributed, who The Power of Early Estate Planning Secure Your Future Today
will care for your children if something happens to you, and who will make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. Without a plan, those decisions could be left to the courts, and the outcome might not reflect what you would have wanted. PROTECTION FOR YOUR LOVED ONES If you have young children, planning early is especially important. A well-crafted estate plan allows you to name a guardian for your kids, create trusts to manage their inheritance responsibly, and ensure your family is cared for no matter what happens. Even if your estate isn’t large, the structure and guidance you leave behind can make a huge difference. PROBATE HASSLE AVOIDANCE Another key benefit of early estate planning is avoiding probate, a time-consuming, public, and expensive legal process. Strategies like creating a revocable living trust can keep your estate out of probate court and ensure a smoother transition of assets to your beneficiaries. Starting early allows you time to structure your plan wisely and avoid future headaches.
ADAPTATION TO LIFE CHANGES The earlier you start, the more flexibility you have. Life doesn’t stand still —
Finding Purpose Through a Side Hustle How Retirees Are Redefining Work
What are you planning for your retirement? If you’re like many people, your plans likely look different from those of retirees a few decades ago. Retirement used to mean slowing down, and it still does. However, many retirees now choose to continue working through a side hustle. The flexibility of a side hustle makes it perfect for those in retirement. And it’s a great way to earn extra income for unexpected living expenses. Today, a variety of side gigs offer flexible hours or the chance to work from home. A retired teacher might start remote tutoring, and someone who spent years in a corporate office could find work as a part-time consultant. Others find a way to turn a hobby into something more, like selling homemade crafts or working as a freelance writer. Rideshare and food delivery apps are also great options and don’t require any experience to get started. Money is a big draw, but many retirees find that a side hustle has other benefits. Working part-time can add structure to your day and allow you to meet new people. It can also help you stay mentally sharp and give you a sense of purpose after the structure of a full-time job fades away. Another great thing about working this way is that you can do it on your terms. It can be as simple as helping out a few hours a week or offering services during the busy season. What matters is finding something that feels rewarding. If retirement is a new chapter, a side hustle can be a plot twist that keeps things interesting.
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
2 | 616-514-3831
marriages, divorces, new children or grandchildren, job changes, and new properties can all affect your estate. Beginning early gives you a solid foundation you can tweak as needed, instead of scrambling to build something from scratch during a crisis. TAX MINIMIZATION While not everyone faces estate taxes, for those who do, early planning can help minimize them. A financial and legal advisor can help structure gifts, trusts, and charitable donations in ways that preserve more of your wealth for your loved ones instead of the IRS. And even for smaller estates, planning ahead helps with income and capital gains tax implications that often get overlooked. FAMILY CONFLICT AVOIDANCE When a loved one passes without a clear plan, confusion and differing expectations can lead to arguments or legal battles between family members. By outlining your wishes clearly and legally, you minimize misunderstandings and help ensure a smoother, more unified transition.
WE WALK TO SAVE LIVES. YOU CAN TOO. Join Us for the 2025 Grand Rapids Heart Walk American Heart Association Saturday, Oct. 4 9:00 a.m. Event Opens, 11:00 a.m. Walk Begins Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center at Aquinas College UPCOMING EVENTS
PEACE OF MIND
Ultimately, the most significant advantage is peace of mind. Knowing your wishes will be honored, your loved ones will be cared for, and your legacy will be preserved brings a sense of comfort that’s difficult to put a price tag on
OCTOBER QUARTERLY EDUCATIONAL EVENT
Wednesday, Oct. 8 from 4:30–6:30 p.m. Kent District Library — Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch You’re Invited! Join us for an insightful and engaging evening designed to give you the knowledge and confidence you need to plan for your financial future. This free educational event is perfect for those nearing or already enjoying retirement. Here’s what’s on the agenda: • Kent County Market Outlook — Key real estate trends to watch • Cybersecurity Essentials — Protect yourself in a digital world • Live Market Update — Timely insights on the economy and how shifting trends may affect your retirement strategy Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable perspectives and practical takeaways from our team and guest experts!
... continued from Cover
I had shorted a customer (which was as unacceptable as shorting the business). By reviewing that day’s sales, we identified the customer who had been shorted and returned their $5 on their next visit. The customer appreciated our honesty and even offered to let me keep the $5, but we insisted on returning it. This experience instilled in me the importance of trust and integrity — values that remain integral in our client relationships today. Within our team, we genuinely appreciate recognition for our transformative efforts, and we value feedback when we fall short. Perfection is our aim; imperfections in service costs both us and our clients! That means we are committed to continuous improvement. Observing some professionals in our industry, I wonder: Are they merely going through the same motions they were taught during their first year in the business and repeating them year after year? Or are they growing to meet evolving client needs? We must be willing as professionals to change and grow every year to keep pace with new tax laws, changes in our clients’ family dynamics, and other unexpected family circumstances. The plan you started with must be adaptable to new situations. Whenever I see true professionalism at work, I always make a point of expressing my appreciation. I hope you enjoy this perspective on our industry!
Scan the QR code to view other upcoming events.
–Gary Mattson
Not on our email list? Contact us at info@ mattsonfinancial.com !
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
MattsonFinancial.com | 3
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
3226 28th Street SE Kentwood, MI 49512
106.9 FM and 1300 AM Saturdays from 10–11 a.m. Sundays from 11 a.m.—12 p.m.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Why We Work So Hard to Find the Right Advisors
2
Get Ahead of Life’s Surprises With a Rock-Solid Estate Plan
Why Side Hustles Are a Hit for Retirees
3
Upcoming Events
4
5 Stunning Fall Hikes to Take This Season
Investment advisory services offered through Mattson Financial Services, LLC, an SEC-Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance and annuities offered through Lakeview Financial Group, LLC. Mattson Financial Services, LLC and Lakeview Financial Group, LLC are affiliated companies. Reminder: If you have any changes to your financial situation, please notify us as soon as possible. For distribution requests, please provide at least one week’s notice to allow time for placing trades and raising cash.
THE ULTIMATE FALL HIKING BUCKET LIST
Leaf Lovers Welcome
There’s something special about getting outdoors and hiking this time of year. The air is crisp, the bugs are (mostly) gone, and the trees show off their fiery red, yellow, and orange leaves. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just looking to enjoy leaf-peeping and fresh air, fall is the ultimate season to hit the trails. And the U.S. is brimming with stunning places to do just that. Aspen, Colorado Come September, the mountainsides come alive with beautiful golden aspen leaves, hence the name! Hikes like the Cathedral Lake Trail or Maroon Bells Scenic Loop offer beautiful views of alpine lakes with gorgeous foliage and snow-dusted peaks. Just be sure to bring layers — mountain weather can be moody!
Acadia National Park, Maine If you want coastal charm mixed with fall colors, Acadia National Park delivers. Right along Maine’s gorgeous coastline, this park is full of color and stunning ocean views — a rare combination! Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina The Smoky Mountains are a fall favorite known for their endless ridgelines and misty valleys. Mid-to-late October is peak foliage season, especially along trails like Alum Cave or Clingmans Dome. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon If you’re looking for some of the most gorgeous waterfalls you’ve ever seen, the Columbia River Gorge is the spot! Trails like Multnomah Falls or
Eagle Creek offer pretty fall colors, mossy cliffs, and cascading waterfalls.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is a hidden gem for fall hiking. The Dark Hollow Falls Trail offers a challenging climb with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For something gentler, the Stony Man Trail is perfect for families and still offers breathtaking scenery. With over 500 miles of trails, Shenandoah is a fall favorite on the East Coast.
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
4 | 616-514-3831
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator