Articles from Sean R. Sparkman, AIF®, and Pathfinders Wealth on retirement income, investing, taxes, protection, and the choices that connect money to real life.
Some articles were first published through Safe Money Trends. Original publication dates are preserved, and review dates show when Pathfinders last updated the material.
Learn how qualified retirement accounts and taxable investment accounts differ, including updated 2026 contribution limits, withdrawal rules, taxes, and RMD considerations.
Read the ArticlePlain-English articles about retirement income, taxes, investing, protection, and the decisions that connect them.
“Over 70% of seniors say they feel their retirements are underfunded. This statistic could indicate trouble ahead for an already vulnerable population.” – Sean Sparkman. Retirement and most other senior…
Read the Article“Some folks chase returns because they think it’s the only way to achieve financial success. If you are caught in a cycle of trying to find the elusive “Yieldacorn”, it…
Read the ArticleLearn how qualified retirement accounts and taxable investment accounts differ, including updated 2026 contribution limits, withdrawal rules, taxes, and RMD considerations.
Read the ArticleThese educational tools help you explore risk, retirement income, and the effect timing can have after withdrawals begin. They do not replace an individualized plan.
Identify your personal risk tolerance before comparing it with the investments you own.
Find My Risk NumberMeasures personal risk tolerance. It does not analyze the investments you currently own.See the same annual returns in two different orders while a portfolio is providing withdrawals.
See the DifferenceOrganize the income you expect and estimate the amount savings may need to provide.
Start the X-RayCompare how monthly income, spending, and portfolio withdrawals change for either surviving spouse.
Check the Survivor PaycheckPreviously published Pathfinders educational articles are preserved with their original publication dates. Financial rules and planning considerations may have changed since they were written.
“2020-2022 has been a trying period of supply chain issues, labor shortages, and lockdowns that may cause you to think about selling your business.” – Sean Sparkman. The fallout from…
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Sean helps families connect retirement income, investments, taxes, protection, and legacy around the life they want to live. His approach begins with understanding the person and the purpose of the money before recommending a strategy.
Meet Sean and the Pathfinders teamArticles can help you understand the issue. A conversation helps you see how it fits your own plan.