Finding time to experience nature can be one of the greatest pleasures both before and during retirement. Here is some highlights, tips and inspiration from our time visiting 15 of our great National Parks.

Recession or Bear Market?  2022 is shaping up to be one of the worst starts ever for the markets.  Here are our thoughts on where we are, what's ahead and 3 really great reasons to Invest anyway.

Effortless (by Greg McKeown) is the highly anticipated follow up to one of our most favorite books ever - Essentialism.   How does it compare?  Does it live up to the hype?  Check out this essential review....

Small-business owners spend so much time and energy building their company that they often neglect their personal financial future.  Are you making any of these 5 retirement planning mistakes?

Financial planning doesn't have to be overwhelming.  On this episode we discuss a  simplified framework built with 8 Timeless Investing Insights.  Grab the free eBook: barkofinancial.com/8timelessinsights

After nearly 4 weeks of eliminating the distractions (and convenience) of a Smart Phone, we check in with Matt for an update.

Here's a great option to eliminate distractions an unplug, starting with your phone.

The Essential Podcast is 3 years old!  We end the year with a look back at some of our favorite episodes.  Join us for this stroll down memory lane.

It's time for another book review (or two).  On this episode, we discuss two books that deserve a spot on your reading list.  Grab one to enjoy during this approaching holiday season and get ready for 2021.

Who wins?  When will we find out?  And how will the markets react?   While our votes should reflect our personal beliefs and preferences, it's important to remember what affects markets in the long run.

Matt's new hobby is one to consider.  Recreation is Essential and a hobby is a great way to manage stress while having fun.  Here's one anyone can try.

You need a vacation!  Here is our recommended destination for Fall 2020.  Hint: The mountains are calling...

The world is noisy, filled with intense distractions and almost endless road blocks to our ability to focus.  With so many things competing for our attention, here are 4 tips to help!

Even though Presidential Elections happen every four years, they often breed uncertainty or anxiety about the financial markets and other investment matters.  How should investors react to what may be a bitter campaign?  Should invest...

Whether spending an evening out by the grill or smoker, or serving a perfect steak cooked indoors, here are 4 essential recipes to finish the Summer strong and kick off your Fall gatherings with delicious ease.

Here are 4 essential tips to consider before buying your vacation home.

What else is new for 2020?  A national pet shortage.  True story!  Here are some things to consider when adding a furry friend to your family.

Tommy talks about traveling during the pandemic and provides tips and insights from a recent road trip that covered 3 states and 5 different hotels.

Here's a short message from Tommy as you prepare to celebrate our great country this weekend!

If you've felt confused or anxious as a result of recent events, here is an action plan you can follow to regain focus, boost confidence and provide a much needed sense of control.  

Life as we all knew it came to an abrupt halt.  As things begin to return to "normal", consider the perspective to view this "Great Reset" as an opportunity to live a more intentional and essential life.

The CAREs Act has provided some options to access 401k and other retirement accounts in the face of historic unemployment and the COVID-19 pandemic.  What are the details and what should you do?

Risk Management is Essential, and with 1 in 15 consumers falling victim to Identity Theft annually, we should be intentional to minimize our vulnerability.  Here are some helpful steps you can take now.   

Our brains are great at thinking and problem solving - not remembering.  That's why we find ourselves often feeling forgetful and frustrated, overlooking mundane, essential or even lifesaving details.  Want to know the solution? ...

Here is what you need to know about the COVID-19 stimulus bill.  We discuss key provisions of the $2 trillion “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security” (“CARES”) Act.