✨ A $2 Million IRA ≠ a $2 Million retirement! ✨
Seeing $2,000,000 on a retirement statement can create a tremendous sense of security.
But the number on the statement isn't necessarily the number you get to spend 💡
For affluent retirees, I believe there are three risks that deserve far more attention:
1️⃣ Sequence of Returns Risk
Imagine retiring with $2 million just before a significant market decline.
You're no longer simply waiting for the market to recover—you may also be withdrawing $80,000, $100,000 or more each year to fund your lifestyle.
Those withdrawals during a declining market can permanently reduce the capital available to participate in the recovery.
Same average return.
Different sequence.
Potentially VERY different retirement outcome.
2️⃣ Withdrawal Rate Risk
A $2 million portfolio supporting $80,000 annually is very different from one supporting $150,000.
Retirement planning isn't simply about reaching a certain asset level.
It's about determining how much sustainable income those assets can produce—and how that income changes during difficult markets.
3️⃣ The IRS May Be Your Silent Partner
If that $2 million is primarily in traditional IRAs and 401(k)s, it represents pre-tax wealth—not necessarily spendable wealth.
Eventually, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) enter the picture.
And larger taxable distributions can potentially create a ripple effect:
→ Higher taxable income
→ Higher Medicare premiums through IRMAA
→ More Social Security benefits potentially subject to taxation
→ Less flexibility over when and how you recognize income
This is why sophisticated retirement planning should begin well BEFORE RMDs.
Could strategic Roth conversions make sense?
Should withdrawals come from taxable, tax-deferred or Roth accounts first?
Should you maintain a cash or short-term reserve to avoid selling equities during a downturn?
Could charitable giving strategies help manage future RMDs?
These aren't simply investment questions.
They're retirement income and tax-planning questions.
The goal shouldn't just be:
“Retire with $2 million.”
The better goal is:
Build a portfolio capable of generating the after-tax income you need, for as long as you need it, while maintaining flexibility through different market and tax environments.
Because ultimately, wealth isn't measured solely by your account balance.
It's measured by what that balance allows you to do.
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor ⛳
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
Appointment Link: calendly.com/shanellfoster
Photo📸: Lochenheath Golf, Traverse City, Michigan
Forecaddie, Patrick
Visit Thrivent.com/social for additional disclosures
#RetirementPlanning #WealthManagement #FinancialPlanning #RetirementIncome #TaxPlanning #RothConversion #RMD #FinancialAdvisor #SequenceOfReturns #WellingtonWayFinancialGroup #Thrivent
✨ Listening for Why...Not Just to Reply! ✨
Too often, people think financial advice starts with investments.
I believe it starts with a question:
"Why?"
Not listening to reply.
Not listening to recommend a product.
Listening to understand.
Why is financial independence important to you?
Why do you want to retire at a certain age?
Why do you want to leave an inheritance?
Why does generosity matter to your family?
When we uncover the "why," the financial strategy becomes much clearer. Investments, tax planning, insurance, and estate planning are no longer isolated decisions—they become tools that support what matters most to you.
Anyone can build a financial plan around numbers.
The real opportunity is building one around your values, your goals, and the life you want to live.
That's where meaningful planning begins.
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
Appointment Link: calendly.com/shanellfoster
Visit Thrivent.com/social for disclosures.
✨ Wealth means different things to different people 🐎 🎬
For some, it's financial independence. For others, it's creating a lasting legacy for their family.
But for many in the Equestrian World, wealth is the opportunity to pursue an Olympic dream 🏅
Behind every rider chasing excellence are years of sacrifice, unwavering commitment, world-class horses, dedicated trainers, countless hours of preparation—and significant financial planning.
Based in Wellington FL, Gabriela Ruetter, the number 1 female show jumper for Chile 🇨🇱 knows this all too well.
🎥 Thoroughly enjoyed the incredible Movie Premiere of "On the Fringe" documenting her journey to become the next equestrian since 1972 to represent Chile 🇨🇱 at the Olympics!
Watching her journey echoes the truth that wealth isn't simply measured by the size of an investment portfolio. It's measured by the ability to live your purpose and pursue what matters to you!
At Wellington Way Financial Group, we're privileged to work with individuals, families, professionals and business owners whose goals are as unique as they are.
Because the best financial plan isn't just about accumulating wealth—it's about creating the freedom to live the life you've envisioned.
What does wealth mean to you?
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group 🐎 of Thrivent
Appointment Link: calendly.com/shanellfoster
#WellingtonWayFinancialGroup #WealthYourWay #WealthWithPurpose #FinancialPlanning #EquestrianLife #OlympicDream #WellingtonFL #LegacyPlanning #LiveWisely #PurposeDrivenWealth
Thrivent is not affiliated with Gabriela Reutter. Visit Thrivent.com/social for additional disclosures
✨ Quarterbacking the Plan✨
You have the CPA.
You have the estate planning attorney.
You have the real estate professional.
You may even have an insurance agent and an investment broker.
But who is bringing it all together?
The greatest financial outcomes rarely come from one expert working in isolation. They come from a coordinated team with someone serving as the quarterback—aligning tax strategies, investments, retirement planning, estate planning, risk management, and real estate decisions into one cohesive game plan.
Without a quarterback, even the best professionals can unintentionally work in silos.
My role isn't to replace your CPA or attorney—it's to help ensure everyone is moving toward the same goal, asking the right questions, and making decisions that work together to create your best financial future.
Financial confidence isn't built by collecting advisors. It's built through coordination!
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor aka Quarterback
Wellington Financial Group of Thrivent
Appointment Link: https://calendly.com/shanellfoster
#FinancialPlanning #TeamApproach #WealthManagement #EstatePlanning #TaxPlanning #RetirementPlanning #BusinessOwners #FinancialAdvisor
Visit Thrivent.com/social for disclosures
What is a multi-year guaranteed annuity (MYGA) & how does it work?Which one of the following tools have you used to help add predictability to your portfolio during periods of market uncertainty?
1. Certificate of deposit (CD)
2. High-yield savings account
3. Multi-Year Guarantee Annuity (MYGA)
If you’ve never heard of a MYGA before, you’re not alone. Let’s explore what it is and how it might work for you.
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Looking for Financial Clarity? Need an Investment Strategy? Start with your goals 💸
A strong investment strategy should align with:
• Your timeline ⏳
• Risk tolerance ⚖️
• Income and liquidity needs 💵
• Tax considerations 🧾
• Legacy and charitable goals ❤️
Whether you're:
✔️ Building wealth
✔️ Planning for retirement
✔️ Navigating a business exit
✔️ Saving for college
✔️ Creating passive income
✔️ Positioning for changing market cycles
…the key is having a disciplined plan designed around your objectives — not emotions or trends.
Markets will fluctuate. A clear strategy helps you stay focused through every season. 🌎
“Plan your finances for the people, causes and community you love.” ❤️
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
To schedule an appointment: 👉 https://bit.ly/4vpls4l
#InvestmentStrategy #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #RetirementPlanning #Investing #TaxPlanning #FinancialAdvisor #PurposeDriven #WhereMoneyMeansMore #PalmBeach #BusinessOwners #LegacyPlanning
Visit Thrivent.com/social for disclosures
👉 One thing…A clear financial strategy beats timing the market ✨
With everyone chasing headlines, predictions, and constant noise, it’s easy to feel like you need to make the “perfect” move at the “perfect” time.
But here’s the truth:
It's not about timing the market...it's about 'time in the market'!
Build a strategy that helps you stay in even through volatility!
A well-designed financial strategy:
✔️ Aligns with your goals and values
✔️ Accounts for risk, time horizon, and life transitions
✔️ Keeps you disciplined when emotions run high
✔️ Creates consistency—regardless of market conditions
Because long-term success isn’t built on guessing what the market will do next…
It’s built on clarity, consistency, and intentional decisions over time.
✨ If you’re ready to move from reactive decisions to a purpose-driven plan, let’s connect.
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
To schedule an appointment: 👉 https://bit.ly/4vpls4l
#FinancialPlanning #WealthStrategy #InvestWithPurpose #LongTermInvesting #FinancialConfidence #WhereMoneyMeansMore
Visit Thrivent.com/social for disclosures.
What is portfolio rebalancing? Tips to maintain your target investment mixIs now the time to rebalance your portfolio? Over time, market shifts can expose you to more risk than you intended. Rebalancing is usually necessary on a periodic basis to help restore your portfolio to your target allocations. Here are 3 reasons why it may be time to rebalance. 👇
A financial plan is never one-and-done!
As life evolves, your financial strategy should evolve with it. ✨
A thoughtful, ongoing planning process helps you navigate key transitions, track your progress, and make informed decisions with confidence. 📊
Whether it’s:
• A job change 💼
• Paying off your mortgage 🏡
• Sending kids off to college 🎓
• Supporting parents transitioning to assisted living 👵
Each milestone can significantly impact your financial picture—and your long-term roadmap.
With the right guidance and a proactive approach, these moments become opportunities—not obstacles.
Grateful for the continued innovation at Thrivent, providing tools and technology that help clients not only receive advice, but truly visualize their financial progress and stay engaged in their journey!
Thank you, Greg Carlo, for an impactful training on our latest capabilities.
Looking forward to continuing to serve our clients and their families with clarity, purpose, and care ❤️
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
To schedule an appointment: 👉 https://book.apps.thrivent.com/book-intro-appointment/shanell.foster
#FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #GuidanceWithHeart #LifeTransitions #FinancialConfidence #Thrivent #PurposeDriven #ClientExperience #YourFinancialAdvisor
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.
Build a Portfolio That Lets You Retire in Style ✨
Your current investment strategy will ultimately determine what your retirement looks like.
A well-designed portfolio should do two things:
✔️ Grow strategically during your accumulation years
✔️ Transition seamlessly into income and distribution when it’s time to enjoy what you’ve built
And when life evolves—whether that means downsizing, selling a home, or simplifying your lifestyle—your financial plan should already be positioned to support those decisions with clarity and confidence.
Thank you to Wellington Bay for an insightful and informative presentation. Conversations like these continue to empower individuals to plan with purpose and retire with intention.
Because retirement isn’t just about stopping work… it’s about stepping into your next chapter fully prepared.
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
#RetirementPlanning #WealthStrategy #FinancialFreedom #LiveGenerously #PurposeDrivenPlanning #WellingtonFL #WomenInFinance #ThriveWithPurpose #RetireInStyle #FinancialClarity
What is a variable annuity & how does it work?A variable annuity offers several key features: income in retirement, potential tax-deferred growth based on market performance, and—depending on the contract—potential to pass money on to your heirs.
Check out this article for more information and let’s connect if you want to discuss how an annuity could help you reach your retirement goals.
Both traditional and Roth IRAs can be a powerful, tax-advantaged way to grow your retirement savings outside of a workplace plan. However, some key differences may impact your taxes, the timing of your withdrawals—and potentially your available savings.
Wondering which option is right for you? Here’s what you need to know: https://bit.ly/3KcjPnB
Thrivent Day at Zoo Miami🦒🐘 Thrivent Day at Zoo Miami 🐾🦓
Looking for a fun, family‑friendly outing? Join us for Thrivent Day at Zoo Miami!
📅 Saturday, March 21
⏰ 9:30 AM
📍 Zoo Miami
Enjoy a full day exploring Florida’s largest zoo with fellow Thrivent members and guests. Your ticket includes:
✅ All‑day zoo admission
✅ Food & beverage voucher
✅ Souvenir cup
✅ A relaxed, community‑focused experience
🎟️ Tickets are just $10 per person!
👉 Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/thrivent-day-at-zoo-miami-tickets-1983989293384?aff=TMNWebsite
No products will be sold.
✨Women’s History Month Highlight ✨
Honored to share that I’ve been recognized as a 2026 Million Dollar Round Table Producer, advancing this year to Court of the Table.
In an industry that often focuses primarily on numbers, production, and performance… I remain committed to something deeper.
For me, it’s never just about the metrics.
It’s about:
• Listening carefully...even to what isn’t said
• Understanding the intangibles
• Aligning financial strategies with aspirations, values, and legacy
• Guiding families, business owners, and professionals with care, confidence and clarity
Excellence matters.
Results matter.
But more importantly, how we serve matters!
Here’s to women shaping industries with both strength and heart. 💫
Shanell Foster, MBA
Financial Advisor
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
Appointment Link:
https://connect.thrivent.com/shanell-foster
#WomensHistoryMonth #MDRT #CourtoftheTable #WomenInFinance #PurposeDriven #LegacyBuilding #WellingtonWay #Thrivent
MDRT is an industry honor based on sales excellence, outstanding client service, ethical conduct and professional knowledge. Visit thrivent.com/social for additional disclosures.
✨ Growth for Good: The Thrivent Difference ✨
Thrivent’s presence in South Florida is heating up — and the momentum is powerful.
Last week, I had the pleasure of connecting with some of new financial advisors who are choosing to align their careers with an organization that believes deeply in the power of purpose-driven impact and values-based planning.
This isn’t just growth for numbers' sake.
It’s Growth for Good!
When talented advisors choose a platform rooted in service, generosity, and long-term stewardship, the ripple effect touches families, businesses, and entire communities.
Excited to see the synergy building and grateful to be part of a movement where money truly means more. 💚
If you’re curious about what purpose-driven planning looks like in action — let’s connect: https://connect.thrivent.com/shanell-foster
#GrowthForGood #PurposeDriven #Thrivent #FinancialAdvisors #SouthFlorida #ValuesBasedPlanning #MoneyMeansMore #Leadership #Mentorship #TheThriventDifference
Interest rates are shifting. Understanding the purpose and timeline of your cash can help you decide whether and how to invest it for optimal returns. Ask yourself two questions. ⬇️
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.
🏋🏽♀️ The Gym Is Back to Normal…Only the Serious Ones Stuck Around!💚
Mid-February is when the crowd thins out.
The New Year’s resolution energy fades.
The “I’ll start Monday” crowd disappears.
And what’s left?
The people who are committed.
The same is true financially.
Now that the fanfare of January has passed, this is actually the perfect time to begin your financial workout. No hype. No noise. Just clarity and execution.
Your 2026 Strategy Playbook is waiting to be deployed.
So let me ask you:
📅 If it’s December 31, 2026 and you’re reflecting on the year…
Did you finally address the 1–2 financial concerns that keep you up at night?
Did you maximize contributions to your employer plan — or open the supplemental retirement account you’ve been meaning to start?
Did you finally add the financial protections you need instead of hoping bad things won't happen?
Did you align your money with your values?
Did you give intentionally — supporting the causes you care most about?
Did you create a clear plan for wealth transfer and long-term impact?
Serious people don’t wait for motivation.
They build structure.
They create accountability.
They execute.
Your financial future doesn’t change because the calendar turned.
It changes because you took action.
Mid-February isn’t late.
It’s right on time — for those who are serious.
If you’re ready to deploy your 2026 strategy with clarity, intention, and forward-looking expertise, let’s start the workout.
Click to Book An Appointment: https://book.apps.thrivent.com/book-intro-appointment/shanell.foster
💚 Your Way to Wealth. Your Way to Financial Clarity and Confidence.
Wellington Way Financial Group of Thrivent
Shanell Foster, MBA, Financial Advisor
#YourFinancialPlaybook #2026FinancialStrategies #WealthStrategy #PurposeDriven #TakeAction #Thrivent #WealthYourWay #SeriousAboutGrowth
Visit thrivent.com/social for disclosures.
The cost of cash: Where to invest when interest rates shiftWhether you’re saving for something big, looking to generate a steady income, or seeking flexible access to your cash, there are smart ways to keep your money productive and there for you when you need it—regardless of shifting interest rates.
Explore your options below and let’s connect to keep your goals on track as interest rates change.
When you’re running on passion and purpose, the work doesn’t drain you...it fuels you. 💫
Every step feels aligned, every effort feels meaningful, and the outcome is lasting impact!
Grateful to walk in purpose and serve with heart. ❤️
This month marks my 10 year work anniversary with Thrivent!
Here's to many more years of dedicated service with a smile!
#10yearMilestone #PurposeDrivenWork #Service #Faith #PassionAndPurpose #LivingWithPurpose #OnAMission #InspiredLife #ImpactMindset #DoWhatMatters #HeartLed #LegacyBuilding #ServingYou #YourFinancialAdvisor #WellingtonWayFinancialGroup #Thrivent
2026 Market Outlook: A return to normal?What’s ahead for stocks and bonds in 2026? Thrivent Asset Management experts share their base case for a positive environment and why equities may continue to reward investors over time.
