Vista Unplugged Summer 2025

VISTA Unplugged Summer 2025

A Message From Jeff

In a world racing toward a fully digital future, where screens and code seem to dominate, I find myself reflecting on the moments that truly matter. The financial industry is no exception to this digital surge, but at Speicher Private Wealth, we’re hitting pause to focus on what technology can’t replace: human connection.

My days are spent navigating the digital landscape, but the heart of my work lies in connecting with you—helping you find clarity, purpose, and joy in your financial journey. What sparks joy for me, and I suspect for many of you, isn’t found in grand adventures or complex algorithms. It’s in the simple, grounding moments— tending a garden, sharing a laugh with friends, or savoring quiet time with family. These are the things that anchor us, no matter where life takes us.

That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce Vista Unplugged, our new hard-copy quarterly

JEFF SPEICHER FINANCIAL ADVISOR

newsletter. This isn’t just another email or app notification—it’s a tangible, heartfelt way to celebrate the things that make life meaningful: your dreams, your values, your why. In a world buzzing with digital noise, Vista Unplugged is our way of slowing down and reconnecting with what’s real.

As a financial advisor, I’ve explored the rise of artificial intelligence and technology tools, from note-takers to advanced analytics, and I’m even hosting a discussion next month with fellow advisors to unpack what this tech-driven future holds. The truth? No one has all the answers, and that uncertainty can feel daunting. But after diving deep, I’ve come back to one truth: no machine can replicate the trust, purpose, and connection we share with you. That’s the foundation of our work.

At Speicher Private Wealth, we will continue to leverage cutting-edge tools to provide exceptional service. Our website, www. speicherwealth.com even features a stunning home screen designed by a client who creates 3D animations for the film industry and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. We’re also excited to share our new Facebook and Instagram pages— check them out when you have a moment! But Vista Unplugged is something different. It’s a physical reminder of what matters most, crafted with care and meant to be held in your hands.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Vista Unplugged. Whether you’re cheering for this return to the tactile or you’re a digital native curious about our approach, drop me a line. Your feedback means the world to me.

Thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey. Here’s to staying connected—heart to heart, no algorithm required.

With Gratitude,

Jeff Speicher, AIF® Founder - Managing Director

VISTA UNPLUGGED NEWS

What’s Inside:

Finding Our Clarity In Purpose

Summer Reading Idea: No Regrets

Find the Sweet Spot: Living Fully Without Running Dry

The Next Generation

Honoring Murph

Steak, Sizzle, & Shared Roads

Navigating the Loss of a Spouse: 5 Key Steps to Move Forward

My Take on the News

Recipe Corner

Vista UnPlugged Closing

Newsletter Disclosures

Securities and advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. 5429 LBJ Freeway, Suite 750, Dallas, TX 75240

The material in this newsletter does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Our firm does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult with legal and tax advisors before making any investment decisions that would have legal/tax consequences.

Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/ MAY LOSE VALUE

Finding Clarity in Our Purpose

In January, we marked a milestone by hosting our inaugural Client Advisory Council in a tight-knit community in western Kansas. Gathered at a local watering hole, five of my most cherished client couples joined me to share insights, align on shared goals, and refine our collective purpose—a defining moment for our organization.

This community holds deep personal significance. In 1998, as a rookie at PaineWebber in Weehawken, New Jersey, I sat among 499 other novices in a room alive with the hum of telephones. Our task was formidable: list wealthy contacts and cold-call them. My list was nearly empty—I knew few affluent people. In a moment of

desperation, I thought of four brothers, friends of my college buddy, who had welcomed us to hunt pheasants on their land. I dialed their number, bracing for rejection. That call, born of necessity, sparked relationships that have flourished for decades, some now spanning four generations. Cold calling was grueling, especially in my first five years, but it forged the trust and connections that anchor my work today.

The Client Advisory Council was a powerful reflection of those enduring bonds. This collaborative forum fostered open, honest dialogue, deepening our understanding of our clients’ needs and aspirations. These couples are our ideal clients for profound reasons: they began working young, between ages 10 and 13, and remain grounded, prioritizing time with loved ones and joyful pursuits over material excess. They value relationships built on mutual trust and service. They are genuinely kind, treating my staff with respect and appreciating the value we provide—so much so that I eagerly await their calls. With a sense of humor and perspective, they don’t take themselves too seriously. As financial delegators, they trust professional recommendations, engaging and acting on advice to follow a clear path to financial independence rather than micromanaging or attempting to execute strategies themselves. They could afford a Ferrari but would never indulge in such extravagance. They are working toward or want to maintain a “work optional” lifestyle. Most strikingly, they are the first in their families to build significant wealth, a testament to their resilience and values.

To me, they embody what matters most. I look forward to my annual visits, not just as their advisor but as their friend, deeply invested in their success. I understand not only their goals but what drives them. Farming is a challenging livelihood, with success often at the mercy of unpredictable forces—weather, crop prices, global markets. Their strength and perseverance inspire me.

Our discussions were illuminating, covering every facet of our service to their families. We explored what our team does well and where we must evolve, reinforcing the need to align our work with their evolving priorities and to foster stronger, more transparent partnerships. These conversations reaffirmed our core mission while embracing the adaptability required to navigate today’s complexities.

The Council’s insights will steer our strategic decisions and shape our initiatives. We are energized by this renewed sense of purpose and committed to delivering value that resonates with our clients and their communities.

A heartfelt thank you to all who made this event a success. You know who you are... Here’s to building on this foundation and continuing to find clarity in our shared purpose.

Summer Reading Idea

Overview

No Regrets: A Fable About Living Your 4th Quarter Intentionally by Allen Hunt and Matthew Kelly is a captivating and inspirational fable that follows Lisa, a 60-year-old woman who confronts her mortality after a vivid dream of attending her own funeral. In the dream, she sees a lackluster gathering with few celebrating her life, prompting a profound realization that her seemingly satisfying life—complete with family, friends, and activities—lacks deeper meaning. Determined to live her "fourth quarter" (the final phase of life) with purpose and no regrets, Lisa embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery, guided by wisdom from Anthony, a joyful 97-year-old, and a nun who sparks a soul-stirring experience.

Key Themes and Plot

The story centers on Lisa’s quest to live intentionally by aligning her actions with her values, faith, and purpose. Through her journey, she cultivates virtues such as forgiveness, generosity, and fortitude, rediscovers creative passions, mends strained relationships, and seeks to leave a meaningful legacy through service. The authors introduce five keys to living and dying with no regrets, offering practical wisdom for readers to apply at any stage of life. These keys emphasize prioritizing relationships, embracing unexpected opportunities, and focusing on what truly matters, your whys. The narrative concludes at Lisa’s reimagined funeral, a vibrant celebration of a life well-lived, underscoring the impact of her intentional choices.

Reasons to Read No Regrets

1. Inspires Intentional Living: The book provides a roadmap for making the most of life’s later years, encouraging readers to reflect on their purpose and align their actions with their core values. It’s a wake-up call to live with clarity and intention, no matter one’s age.

2. Relatable and Thought-Provoking: Lisa’s story resonates with anyone feeling unfulfilled or questioning their legacy. The fable format makes complex ideas accessible, prompting deep reflection on how to live authentically.

3. Practical Wisdom: The five keys to living without regrets offer actionable steps for personal growth, such as nurturing relationships and embracing virtues, making it a valuable guide for creating a fulfilling life.

4. Uplifting and Hopeful: Rooted in a Christian perspective, the book delivers a message of hope, encouraging readers to find strength and purpose through faith and service. Its optimistic tone inspires positive change.

5. Quick and Impactful Read: As a short, engaging fable, it’s ideal for busy readers seeking profound insights without a lengthy commitment. Many readers report finishing it in a day, yet revisiting its lessons for ongoing inspiration.

Finding the Sweet Spot: Living

Fully without Running Dry

At our boutique private wealth office, we don’t just manage your finances—we guide you toward a life well-lived. Our philosophy boils down to two simple, heartfelt rules that shape everything we do for you.

Rule #1: You are not allowed to run out of money on my watch. It’s not just about protecting your wealth; it’s about ensuring you have the freedom to live with confidence, knowing your future is secure. Running out of money isn’t just a financial misstep—it’s a resume stain I refuse to let happen. Your peace of mind is my promise.

Rule #2: You are not allowed to get to the end of your life with a long list of regrets. Money is a tool, not the goal. We’re here to help you use it to chase what lights you up—whether it’s traveling the world, giving back, or simply savoring quiet moments with loved ones. Life is too short for “I wish I had.”

Our job? To help you navigate the sweet spot between these two truths. It’s about crafting a plan that lets you live boldly today while safeguarding your tomorrow. We’re not here to sell you products or push portfolios; we’re here to listen, to understand your dreams, and to build a roadmap that honors both your aspirations and your security.

Think of us as your partners in possibility. Together, we’ll balance the joy of now with the promise of later, so you can look back on a life rich with experiences and free from worry. Here’s to finding your sweet spot—and thriving there.

The Next Generation

We’re thrilled to share that our daughter, Tyrsa, graduated from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas, May 2025 with a degree in Sociology—a field that aligns perfectly with the themes of connection and community in this newsletter. After a well-deserved break, we helped her settle into her new apartment in Dallas, marking the start of an exciting chapter.

Tyrsa has secured a prestigious role in Prospera’s Ignite program, becoming only the second individual—and the first outside Prospera’s founding family—to be invited into this elite initiative. Over the next two years, she’ll obtain her professional licenses and gain hands-on experience across all departments, including operations, HR, trading, and separately managed accounts.

We couldn’t be prouder of her achievements and are deeply grateful to our Prospera family for this incredible opportunity. As her dad, I’m confident they’ve chosen a true gem!

Congrats Tyrsa!

Honoring Murph

On Memorial Day 2025, my son Wes and I paid tribute to the extraordinary sacrifice of Lt. Michael Murphy, a Navy SEAL who gave his life during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan on June 28, 2005. With hearts full of gratitude and patriotism, we took on the “Murph” challenge—a grueling workout that embodies the relentless spirit of this American hero. Wearing 20-pound weight vests, we ran 1 mile, completed 100 pull-ups, 200 sit-ups, 300 air squats, and finished with another mile run. This was Lt. Murphy’s daily regimen, a testament to his unwavering dedication to sharpening his skills, always prepared to defend our nation’s freedoms.

Across the globe, veterans and CrossFit athletes join in this tradition to honor Murph and all who have paid the ultimate price for our country. This year, Wes and I felt a deeper call to complete the workout as prescribed, inspired by a powerful episode of the “Team Never Quit” podcast, hosted by fellow SEALs Marcus Luttrell—known as the Lone Survivor, whom Murph died trying to save—and David “Rut” Rutherford, whom I had the honor of meeting at a Prospera conference. Their words reminded us of the courage and brotherhood that define our nation’s warriors.

Wes outpaced me, but together, we crossed the finish line, united in honoring Murph and every fallen hero. Memorial Day is more than the start of summer; it’s a solemn reminder of the Gold Star families who carry the weight of loss so we can live freely. As Americans, we are blessed to speak our minds, pursue our dreams, and stand tall because of those who fought for the idea of what it means to be American.

My family remains eternally grateful to those who serve and sacrifice. We will never lose sight of the cost of our liberty. Thank you for being part of our journey as we strive to honor these values in all we do.

Steak, Sizzle, and Shared Roads

Recently, Thess and I had the pleasure of hosting dear friends and peers from Virginia, Clayton and his wife, Ginger. The parallels between our lives are uncanny. Clayton just turned 56, and I’m not far behind. We both built our businesses from the ground up through grueling training programs at large firms, not inheriting family practices. Our daughters are both with Prospera Financial Services, potentially future partners in our firms, while our younger sons—his in construction, mine in high school—drive older trucks, a nod to the work ethic we value. Even our daughters’ sporty used cars mirror each other. We’re cautious about giving our kids too much, wanting them to learn the hard-earned lessons we did. From multi-generational client relationships spanning four generations to similar firm transitions, the similarities are striking.

We showed them the beauty of Telluride, Silverton, and Durango, with a high-country adventure as the highlight—though the real joy was their company. While we were walking to dinner, I happened to notice a new vinyl record store on Main Street replacing a restaurant. Felt like a whisper from the universe.

Over dinner, Clayton shared an analogy: “We sell the same thing—one sells the steak, the other the sizzle, like Burger King versus Ruth’s Chris.” I’m curious which he thinks I offer and plan to dig deeper. While we both manage wealth, our approaches differ. Clayton handpicks investments, while I act as a general contractor, orchestrating experts across fields. Our goals align, but our methods vary.

Returns matter, of course—they’re the “how.” But the “why”—your family, passions, and purpose—takes center stage when life shifts, whether through loss, accidents, or time’s passage. Neither Clayton nor I believe we “sell” anything. We don’t need more clients, but we’re always open to new, meaningful relationships. Our satisfied clients regularly introduce us to their loved ones, a testament to the trust we’ve built.

Returns are like ketchup or steak sauce—expected and delivered. You can find solid returns at places like Fidelity or Vanguard, but what sets us apart is the “why.” As Simon Sinek said in a recent TED Talk, people don’t care what you do until they know why you do it. We care deeply about you, and I hope you feel that.

This peer exchange, rare over 15 years, has been invaluable. Prospera’s boutique network of 200 advisors, each serving a select group of families, fosters this collaboration. Unlike my previous firm, Prospera encourages learning from one another. We’re comparing returns to ensure we deliver the best for you, and if adjustments are needed, we’ll make them. Every advisor who built their practice from scratch believes they’re doing it right, but we’re always open to growth.

Thank you for trusting us with your “why.” We’re committed to delivering both the performance you expect and the care you deserve.

Navigating the Loss of a Spouse 5 Key Steps to Move Forward

At Speicher Private Wealth, we work with families across generations, sharing in their joys and, all too often, their sorrows. Recently, one of our cherished clients lost her spouse after a brief battle with cancer. This profound loss reminded us how deep personal grief can be—and how vital it is to find a path forward.

Losing a spouse reshapes your world, bringing emotional and practical challenges. While grief is unique to each person, these five steps, drawn from real-life experiences, can help you find stability and hope.

1. Embrace Your Grief

Grief is not a straight path. It may bring waves of sadness, anger, or unexpected moments of peace. Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment. Whether through journaling, quiet reflection, or confiding in a trusted friend, give yourself permission to grieve at your own pace. A grief counselor or support group can offer solace and connection during this time.

2. Build a Support Network

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Lean on family, friends, or communities like faith groups or widow/widower networks. Connecting with others who understand your loss can be profoundly healing. Local bereavement groups or online forums provide safe spaces to share your story and find comfort. Don’t hesitate to ask for help with daily tasks or simply for someone to listen.

3. Organize Your Finances

Financial clarity is a cornerstone of stability. Your Speicher Private Wealth Personal Financial Organizer compiles critical documents—bank statements, insurance policies, your spouse’s will, and more—ensuring you’re prepared for what lies ahead. We’ll help you explore spousal benefits like life insurance or Social Security survivor benefits (in the U.S., you may qualify for a one-time $255 death benefit or monthly payments). Reach out to us; this is why we’re here.

4. Address Legal and Administrative Needs

Essential tasks, like obtaining death certificates (10-20 copies are typically needed), notifying banks, and updating accounts or titles, can feel daunting. If your spouse had a will, we’ll guide you to an attorney to begin probate or estate settlement. Together, we’ll also review your own will and beneficiary designations. Lean on our team to make these steps manageable.

5. Honor Their Memory

Keeping your spouse’s legacy alive can bring comfort and connection. Create a tribute that feels meaningful—plant a tree, donate to a cause they cherished, or cook their favorite meal on special days. These acts help you process your loss while celebrating their life. Move at your own pace and choose what resonates with you.

Moving Forward with Compassion

These steps are a foundation for navigating this challenging season. Be kind to yourself— healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means carrying your love forward in a new way. If you need resources or support, we’re here for you. This is why we dedicate so much time to your Financial Security and Advisory Plan (FSAP).

My take on the market

As Congress debates the latest spending bill, I want to share my perspective on the economic environment and its implications for your financial future.

Inflation Outlook

For over 15 years, we’ve anticipated higher inflation, fueled by a growing federal deficit, particularly since the Covid-19 era. While the default inflation rate provided by First Clearing was around 2.5%, we’ve proactively modeled more conservative assumptions in your Envision Plan to better prepare for economic realities.

As of July 3, 2025, the latest spending bill shows no significant spending cuts, signaling that inflationary pressures may persist. This view diverges from many financial pundits, but as your trusted financial guide, I prioritize caution over complacency. Our goal is to ensure your plan remains robust, no matter the economic climate.

How This Affects You

While inflation erodes purchasing power for many, your portfolio is designed to thrive in this environment through strategic investments in three key areas:

• Real Estate: Property values and rents often rise with inflation, fueled by steady housing demand and rising construction costs. As a tangible asset, real estate protects against currency devaluation, with landlords adjusting rents and property appreciation often outpacing inflation.

• Commodities: Assets like gold, oil, and agricultural products increase in value during inflationary times due to their intrinsic worth. Gold, a trusted safe haven, shines when currencies weaken, and commodity prices rise with production and consumer costs.

• High-Quality Stocks: Companies with strong balance sheets and pricing power, such as blue-chip firms in consumer staples or healthcare, can pass on cost increases without losing demand. Their dividends often grow, providing income that keeps pace with inflation.

Optimistic Long-Term View

I remain bullish on the stock market. Historically, stocks average over 8% annual returns over any 20-year period I’ve studied. Using a conservative 7% return and the Rule of 72 (dividing 72 by the annual return rate to estimate doubling time), the Dow Jones and S&P 500 should double in roughly 10 years. With inflation, your returns could be even more rewarding.

Balancing Risks

No investment is risk-free—real estate can be illiquid, commodities volatile, and stocks sensitive to market fluctuations. However, these assets generally outperform cash or bonds, which lose value in inflationary times. Diversification across these areas helps mitigate risks while preserving your wealth.

Let’s Stay Connected

We’ll continue to tailor our strategy to your unique goals during our meetings throughout the year. If you have questions or want to discuss your portfolio, please contact me at (970) 8287000. I’m here to guide you through these economic challenges.

RECIPE CORNER

Tomato Flight for Your Next Dinner Party

1. Heirloom Tomato Caprese

• Ingredients: Heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic glaze, sea salt

• Instructions:

1. Slice tomatoes and mozzarella into 1/4-inch rounds.

2. Arrange on a platter, alternating tomato and mozzarella slices, with basil leaves tucked between.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with sea salt.

4. Let sit at room temperature for flavors to meld.

2. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

• Ingredients: Cherry tomatoes, garlic cloves, fresh thyme, olive oil, salt, pepper, sourdough bread

• Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).

2. On a baking sheet, toss cherry tomatoes, garlic, and thyme with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Roast for 25–30 minutes until soft and jammy. Cool slightly.

4. Serve in a small bowl alongside toasted sourdough slices.

3. Fresh Tomato Salsa

• Ingredients: Roma tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, tortilla chips

• Instructions:

1. Dice tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro, then combine in a bowl.

2. Add lime juice and salt, mixing well.

3. Let sit for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

4. Serve with tortilla chips or as a vibrant side.

Try this tomato flight at your next gathering, and let us know how you make it your own! Reply with your favorite variations or flavor inspirations.

Thank you for reading the very first print edition of Vista UnPlugged! I hope it brought you some insight and a touch of that unplugged charm. A special shout-out to Clayton and his wife for nudging me to bring this newsletter to life on paper—here’s to their encouragement!

As we kick off this new adventure, we’d love to hear your thoughts. What do you think of a printed newsletter? Any topics or ideas you’d like us to explore in future issues? Your feedback means the world to us.

I tried running this through ChatGPT and Grok for polish, but they stripped out the soul. Seems like AI hasn’t quite mastered the art of living unplugged yet. Here’s to keeping it real!