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"What Your Business is Worth" - a Business Valuation Workshop

We have a few spots left for What Your Business is Worth | A Business Valuation Workshop, happening Sep 9th at 6:00PM in Charleston. This hands-on session with Tim Lukasik breaks down the basics and benefits of business valuation—giving you essential insights to help you plan and succeed. Enjoy food, meet other entrepreneurs, and walk away with actionable steps for your business journey. Attendance is FREE and open to all business owners—register while spots last! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-your-business-is-worth-a-business-valuation-workshop-tickets-1537282847379?aff=LinkedIn - No products will be sold. Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social #Charleston #EntrepreneurGoals #LowcountryBusiness #BusinessGrowth #ValuationWorkshop #Networking

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Pitch for a Purpose event at the Rainiers game! ⚾ Last week was extra meaningful for our team — for the first time, team members from across the nation gathered together here in Washington for our retreat. Ending the week by cheering on the Rainiers together with clients, friends, and colleagues was the perfect way to cap off the trip. A special thank you to Tracey from Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity for joining us and sharing about the incredible work their organization is doing to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. 🏡 We are proud to share that, through the generosity of our community, Thrivent’s 2-to-1 match, and donor advised funds, we raised $4,077 in support of Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity! Here’s to more good times, good people, and good causes.💙

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

I hear it a lot these days—there are a lot of ways to get business funding, and it’s tough to know what will actually fit your needs. Here’s what I tell clients: • Bank loans aren’t your only choice. Business credit cards, lines of credit, crowdfunding, and microloans give you options for every stage. • Need flexibility? Credit cards and lines of credit let you cover seasonal dips or unexpected expenses without jumping through too many hoops. • Launching something new? Crowdfunding or equipment leasing can help you get started without draining cash reserves. • Special programs like SBA and microloans are out there, especially for minority and veteran owners, with lower barriers and more support. Bottom line: Don’t settle for one-size-fits-all financing. Matching your funding approach to your real needs is what keeps you growing (and staying stress-free). If sorting through your options feels confusing, just reach out—I’m happy to help make it simpler. - Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

August 2025 Market Update: Stocks set new highs, despite concerns

In the latest market update, Thrivent Asset Management experts discuss concerns about some data, while stocks continue to set new highs.

"What Your Business is Worth" - a Business Valuation Workshop

Curious about what your business is truly worth? Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop on business valuation—Tuesday, Sep 9th, 6:00PM at James Island Christian Church. Why attend? ☑️ Learn how valuation impacts your business planning ☑️ Gain clarity on aligning business decisions with your personal goals ☑️ Network with other inspiring local business owners This is a FREE, relaxed event—no products, no pitches, just valuable knowledge and good conversation. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-your-business-is-worth-a-business-valuation-workshop-tickets-1537282847379?aff=LinkedIn - No products will be sold. Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social #BusinessWorth #EntrepreneurGoals #LowcountryBusiness #Charleston #ValuationWorkshop #Networking

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"What Your Business is Worth" - a Business Valuation Workshop

Unlock the true value behind your business! I’m excited to co-host "What Your Business is Worth | A Business Valuation Workshop" on Tuesday, Sep 9th, at James Island Christian Church, Charleston, SC. This FREE, no-obligation session is designed for business owners who want clear answers about business valuation and its impact on planning for the future. Led by expert Tim Lukasik, we’ll cover practical strategies and actionable insights—plus enjoy sandwiches and light refreshments in a relaxed setting. Ready to understand your business’s worth and connect with fellow entrepreneurs? 👉 Space is limited—reserve your spot today! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-your-business-is-worth-a-business-valuation-workshop-tickets-1537282847379?aff=LinkedIn - No products will be sold. Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social #BusinessWorth #EntrepreneurGoals #LowcountryBusiness #BusinessGrowth #ValuationWorkshop #Charleston

I’ve been reflecting lately on how most financial advice out there is all about budgets, investing, or the next hot market move. But as a Christian, I keep coming back to a bigger question: How does God actually want me to handle money? For me, the Bible doesn’t just offer spiritual comfort—it’s full of timeless, practical wisdom about money. It’s easy to forget, but everything I have is ultimately God’s, not mine (Psalm 24:1). That takes a lot of pressure off my shoulders and changes how I make decisions. It’s not just about building up more, but about being a good steward of what I’ve been given. There are so many verses that hit home for me: • Planning ahead: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit…” (Proverbs 21:5) • Staying out of unhealthy debt: “The borrower is slave to the lender.” (Proverbs 22:7) • Finding real contentment: “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) • And giving—making generosity a regular, intentional habit (Malachi 3:10, Matthew 6:33). When I let my faith shape my finances, it goes way beyond dollars and cents. It reminds me to manage money as a steward, set goals thoughtfully, practice generosity, and find joy in what God’s already provided—not just chase what’s next. If you’ve been thinking about how your faith should fit into your financial plan, I’d love to connect. Sometimes a conversation can make all the difference in figuring out next steps. . . . Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement?. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.

Taxes might be one of the most significant ongoing expenses in retirement—are you prepared? I’m hosting a live session this month to help you understand: 💸 How your investments will be taxed when you retire 🏦 Proven strategies to keep more of your hard-earned money 🚀 Tactics to work towards a lower tax bracket in retirement Join us for one of these complimentary, no-pressure webinar sessions: – Wed, Aug 13, 2025, 12:00 PM PT – Thu, Aug 14, 2025, 5:30 PM PT https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9417527874034/WN_TGG-lCDIR7u6JU3tijIR2w - Learn more about our team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: No products will be sold. Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.

Most of us were raised to think finances are private, maybe even a bit uncomfortable to discuss. But I’ve come to realize those conversations are where real growth happens—for our families and ourselves. I’ve seen it play out plenty of times: Maybe it’s talking to aging parents about their plans for the future (never an easy topic). Or sitting down with your spouse to set some real goals instead of just handling bills as they pop up. Sometimes it’s even about making sure kids understand money’s value without making it a source of stress. What I’m picking up is that these talks are rarely just about dollars and cents. They’re really about what we value, what we dream about, and how we can work together. Starting the conversation can honestly feel vulnerable—but over time, it can build more trust and understanding. Here are a couple of things that help me (and the folks I work with): • Pick a relaxed time—no distractions, no pressure. • Stay curious—ask questions, listen more than you talk. • Remember: It’s normal to have different perspectives. The goal isn’t to “win,” it’s to understand each other. I don’t have all the answers, but I do know having these conversations—awkward as they can be—pays off way more than avoiding them. If you’ve ever put off a money chat with someone important to you, maybe now’s a good time to try. You might be surprised by what comes out of it. If you want to bounce some ideas around or need a place to start, I’m always up for a conversation. - Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Mortgage rates are climbing, credit card APRs are at multi-year highs, and the cost of borrowing keeps increasing—so what does this all mean when it comes to your financial decisions? This fall: • Average 30-year mortgage rates have moved above 7.2% for the first time since 2000. • Credit card interest rates have topped 20% APR, with household balances reaching new highs. • While savings accounts now offer over 4.5% annual yield, that boost comes with challenges for borrowers. Here’s what matters: • Reacting emotionally—pausing investments or taking on new debt without a solid plan—can jeopardize long-term goals. • True financial advice means considering your full financial picture: housing, debt, savings, and investments—not just the latest rate headline. Takeaway: Your path to financial success requires more than “wait and see” or chasing the latest trend. Ready to make the most of today’s rates and keep your goals on track? Let’s build a plan that works for you in every rate environment. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social Sources: Federal Reserve Economic Data, Bankrate, WSJ, Freddie Mac.

“I’m considering selling our family home and downsizing—will this really improve our financial picture?” This is one of the most common questions we’re hearing from clients in today’s housing market. With property values high and lifestyle needs changing after 50, moving to a smaller home—or relocating to a lower-cost area—can appear tempting. But is it the right move for your unique situation? Here’s what we’re discussing with clients right now: → Potential Windfall: Selling at today’s prices might provide a significant cash boost. For 2025, couples can exclude up to $500,000 of home sale gains from capital gains tax if they meet IRS requirements. → Hidden Costs of Moving: Factor in real estate agent fees (typically 5-6%), moving costs, upgrades needed to sell the home, and potential HOA fees in a new location. → Lifestyle & Community: Think beyond the numbers. Are you ready for a new neighborhood, or would you miss local ties and amenities? Consider how a move would affect your daily routines and relationships. → Future Flexibility: Downsizing can free up assets for travel or legacy goals, but it could also impact your ability to host family or age in place comfortably. Key Questions to Ask Yourself: ❓ What will my net proceeds be after accounting for all selling and buying costs? ❓ How will a smaller home impact my ongoing housing, maintenance, and healthcare needs? ❓ Am I emotionally ready to leave this chapter—and what am I most looking for in the next? For many, downsizing is about more than just dollars—it’s a lifestyle decision that should support your goals, values, and financial peace of mind. Want to talk through whether it’s a smart time to downsize, or run the numbers for your own scenario? Let’s connect about your best next steps. . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social IRS, Exclusion of Gain from Sale of Principal Residence, 2025.

“Is it risky to keep too much cash in retirement?” This is a question I hear often from retirees who want to feel secure—but also want their money working for them. Here’s how we break it down: → Safety vs. Growth: Keeping extra cash can help you sleep at night, but over time, inflation can quietly erode its value. → The Right Balance: We typically recommend enough cash to cover 6–12 months of living expenses and upcoming big purchases. The rest can be invested for growth or income. → Your Comfort Zone: Some clients feel best with a bigger cushion, while others prefer to put more to work in the market. Your plan should reflect your unique needs and peace of mind. The goal? Security today, growth for tomorrow. Not sure if your cash strategy is on track? Connect with us: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

“How can I make my charitable giving go further in retirement?” This is a question I love helping clients explore—because generosity can be one of the most meaningful parts of your next chapter. With Thrivent, you have access to a suite of charitable tools and programs designed to amplify your impact: → Thrivent Charitable Impact & Investing®️: Set up a donor-advised fund, endowment, or charitable trust to support the causes that matter most to you, with expert guidance every step of the way. → Thrivent Choice®️: Direct Choice Dollars or make personal donations to over 45,000 nonprofits—Thrivent pays the processing fees, so your gift goes further. → Thrivent Action Teams: Lead a volunteer project or fundraiser in your community—Thrivent provides seed money and resources to help you make a difference. → Thrivent Cause Kits: Bring friends or family together for a hands-on service project, right from home. Whether you want to support your church, fund scholarships, or respond to urgent needs, we can build a giving plan that reflects your values and fits your financial picture. Let’s talk about how you can leave a legacy of generosity. Connect with us: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

“Should I start taking Social Security at 62 or wait?” This is one of the most common questions I get from clients approaching retirement. Here’s what we look at together: → Monthly Benefit: Claiming at 62 means smaller checks for life, while waiting increases your benefit each year up to age 70. → Longevity & Health: If you expect a longer retirement, waiting can pay off. If you need income sooner, starting earlier may make sense. → Other Income Sources: Do you have pensions, savings, or part-time work to bridge the gap if you wait? There’s no universal answer—just the one that fits your goals, health, and lifestyle. Curious which strategy is right for you? Connect with us: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

🕰️ “Should I worry about a ‘Lost Decade’ for stocks?” It’s a real debate right now. Some forecasts call for S&P 500 returns as low as 3% a year over the next decade—far less than we’ve seen recently. But history shows that even during tough stretches, opportunity isn’t lost for everyone. Here’s what I remind clients: 1. A ‘lost decade’ means the major indexes might tread water, but not all investments will 2. Chasing last decade’s winners or concentrating in a few big names can backfire 3. What worked in the 2000s? Diversification. Bonds, small caps, and global stocks often outperformed the S&P 500 during the last “lost decade”. 🔎 What matters now: 🔹 Spread your risk—don’t bet everything on one sector or region 🔹 Stay invested and keep adding steadily if you’re still building wealth 🔹 Remember: a flat market can be a buying opportunity for disciplined investors A “lost decade” isn’t about lost hope—it’s about having a plan that works regards of headlines. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

🛑 “Why would my Social Security retirement benefits get suspended?” It’s a question I’m hearing more as new rules roll out in 2025. The Social Security Administration is tightening up on compliance, and even small oversights can put your payments at risk. Here’s what’s causing suspensions this year: - Missing new in-person verification requirements or failing to update your personal details with SSA - Earning more than allowed if you’re collecting before full retirement age (for 2025, that’s $22,320—go over, and $1 is withheld for every $2 above the limit) - Not reporting major life changes like marriage, divorce, or moving - Extended travel outside the U.S. without proper notification - Ignoring requests for paperwork or deadlines If your payments are suspended, they won’t resume until the issue is corrected, which can take time. For retirees, even a short gap can create real hardship. This is where having a financial team on your side makes a difference. With professionals keeping an eye on rule changes, deadlines, and paperwork, you’re far less likely to miss something important. Your team can help you stay organized, respond quickly to SSA requests, and make sure your information is always up to date. Staying proactive—and having dependable experienced people in your corner—can help you avoid unnecessary interruptions and keep your retirement income on track. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social Thrivent financial advisors and professionals have general knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For complete details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration.

🏠 “Should I pay off my mortgage before retirement?” It depends. The right choice can free up cash flow—or tie up too much in your house. Here’s what I tell my clients: - Paying off your mortgage means fewer monthly bills and greater financial confidence - But it can also reduce your liquidity and limit investment growth - The best timing? When you have enough set aside for emergencies and long-term needs 🔎Key considerations: 🔹Make sure you’re not sacrificing retirement savings just to be debt-free 🔹Compare your mortgage rate to what your investments are earning 🔹Remember: flexibility is valuable—sometimes keeping a low-rate mortgage makes more sense Financial freedom in retirement isn’t just about owning your home—it’s about making choices that fit your bigger picture. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social

It's being reported that the US trade deficit has shrunk by 56%—but what does it mean for you? April saw the US trade deficit fall from $138.3 billion to $61.6 billion—a record 56% drop in just one month. Imports plunged 16%, partly because companies rushed to bring in goods earlier this year ahead of new tariffs, and exports ticked up slightly. On the surface, a shrinking deficit can boost GDP this quarter. But it’s not all good news: tariffs and shifting trade policy are disrupting global supply chains and may push prices higher for everyday goods. Here’s what I’m telling clients: - Big headlines rarely tell the whole story. - Trade numbers can swing sharply from policy changes, but your long-term plan shouldn’t. - Stay focused on what you can control—spending, saving, and how your portfolio is positioned for both growth and resilience. In times of big economic shifts, steady hands build lasting wealth.

Last year, we worked with a new client and what truly stood out was her passion for boxer dogs and her dedication to volunteering with a local boxer rescue. That detail stuck with us. Before we wrapped up, she mentioned an annual fundraiser she was organizing and asked if we could help her apply for an action team. We made a note to follow up—and a few months later, we hopped on Zoom to walk her through the process. Simple, supportive, and exactly what she needed. Fast forward to last week: we received a photo and a heartfelt message from her, sharing how her team came together for the fundraiser and thanking us for our support. It was a small gesture on our part, but it meant a lot to her—and it reminded us why we do what we do. Working with us is about more than numbers. Sometimes, the most meaningful part of our work is showing up for what matters most to our clients—whether that’s navigating a major life transition or championing a cause close to their heart. We’re grateful to be part of stories like these and honored by the trust our clients place in us, even in the small moments. You can learn more and help support Carolina Boxer Rescue by visiting their website: https://carolinaboxerrescue.org/ . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social 📍#boxerpalooza | #carolinaboxerrescue | #myrtlebeach 📍#thrivent | #thriventactionteams | #generosity