Podcast

Tax Planning Doesn’t End on April 15

April 15 feels like the finish line, but it’s just the start. Filing your taxes is about the past. Planning your taxes is about the future, and that’s where real opportunities live. In this short Finance Moment episode, Associate Financial Planner Cameron Pietzsch shares why tax planning shouldn’t be a once-a-year task and how small moves now can make a big impact later. Listen here. 

Blog

Helping Families Prepare for and Navigate Loss

By Jason Gunkel, CFP®, CFA CAP®, Chief Investment Officer

Grief changes everything, including finances. In this blog, Jason Gunkel shares insights from walking alongside widowed clients as they navigate one of life’s most difficult transitions.

4 Documents to Complete Before a Child Goes to College

By Meri Grogan, Director of Finance & Administration

Sending a child off to college comes with a lot of change and not all of it is obvious.



Once your child turns 18, you may no longer have access to their medical or academic information without the right documents in place. In this blog, we break down 4 key documents every parent should consider before move-in day.

Video

Q1 Market Update

In our latest Q1 Market Update, Chief Investment Officer Jason Gunkel walks through what caused the recent volatility and what it could mean for your investments.



From tech stock pullbacks to rising oil prices and interest rates, there’s a lot to unpack. But one thing hasn’t changed: the importance of staying focused on your long-term plan. Tune in to the full video here.  

Events

• May 6: Document Shredding & Tech Disposal Day @ Syverson Strege Office (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.). BONUS: Enjoy a treat of your choice from The Outside Scoop ice cream truck from Noon-3 p.m.in our parking lot. 

• June 11: Power of Connection Women’s Series – “Driven by Confidence” @ Syverson Strege Office (5:30-7:30 p.m.). Join us for this women-focused event designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the various aspects of car ownership. From understanding the pros and cons of leasing versus buying, to decoding insurance coverage, managing repair decisions, and planning for the true financial costs of maintenance of electric, gas and hybrid vehicles, this event brings together practical insights from women in the car industry. Whether you're purchasing your first vehicle, upgrading your current one, or simply want to feel more informed and in control, you’ll walk away with clear guidance and the confidence to make smart, informed decisions on the road ahead. Food and beverages will be provided. RSVP here or to Deb Longseth at (515) 225-6000 or DLongseth@SyversonStrege.com.

Inside Look

Spotlight: Wayne Johnson, Senior Financial Planner

What do you enjoy most about your work at Syverson Strege?

We get to interact with people to help them make decisions that make their lives better. Sometimes we help alleviate worry. Other times we help to achieve a goal. When those things happen, you know you are making a difference.

What inspired you to get into financial planning?

I thought I was going to solve problems with spreadsheets! Little did I know then that all of life’s problems can’t be solved on a spreadsheet. That was humbling to learn.



What’s one piece of financial wisdom you often share with clients or live by yourself?

The past doesn’t matter nearly as much as making the best decision for yourself right now. Past financial mistakes are like a bad shot in golf. The only shot that matters is the one in front of you right now.

What’s been one of your most rewarding experiences working with clients or your team?

Whenever a client refers to our conversations as a source of confidence and peace. “I know I’ll be all right. You guys will help me.”

Congratulations to Teresa Baumann & Michaela Bradley! 

Congratulations to Associate Financial Planner Teresa Baumann and Associate Financial Planner Michaela Bradley for passing the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® exam earlier this month! Teresa’s experience as a compliance manager, financial educator, and coach fuels her calling to support clients as they work toward financial confidence and success. Michaela has been with Syverson Strege for a year and is looking forward to putting what she has learned into practice helping clients navigate and achieve their desired financial futures.

Power of Connection Women’s Series

Our first Power of Connection event of 2026 was held at Middlebrook Mercantile in early April and featured an inspiring conversation around navigating financial and estate planning through seasons of singleness. From meaningful small-group discussions to thoughtful insights shared by our panelists, the evening was filled with connection, learning, and real-life perspective. We’re grateful to be part of conversations that empower individuals to plan confidently regardless of their life stage.

Holiday Closure

The Syverson Strege office will be closed on Monday, May 25 for Memorial Day. We will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, May 26. 

Out and About

65^th Annual Iowa Prayer Breakfast

Earlier this month, Financial Planner Jennifer Scheck, Associate Financial Planner Damian Beard and Director of Communications & Marketing Christina Gayman attended the Iowa Prayer Breakfast alongside many of our clients and friends. We’re grateful for time like this away from the day-to-day to reflect, listen, and connect with the people who make our work so meaningful.

Change Course Impact Gala

Managing Director Lance Gunkel, Associate Financial Planner Damian Beard and Senior Financial Planner Wayne Johnson recently attended the Change Course Impact Gala. The fundraiser was held to support the organization’s career development program that provides training in highly sought-after skills, along with leadership and personal development. Damian also served as the live auctioneer for the evening!

Blessman International 14^th Annual Gala

Chief Investment Officer Jason Gunkel, Financial Planner Jennifer Scheck and several Syverson Strege guests attended the Blessman International annual gala this month. The event celebrated 25 years of Dr. Jim and Beth Blessman’s dedication to this ministry and raised a record amount of support that will go directly toward serving families and communities across South Africa.