Brandt Financial Concepts, Inc.

10/24/2026

We may be living longer, healthier lives—even up to 120, 130, possibly 150 years! 🤯 Medical futurists are predicting breakthroughs equivalent to three centuries of progress.
This changes everything. If we live longer, we must plan smarter.
⏳ Don't let longevity catch you unprepared.
Join my Table Talk Series™ live webinar: "Live Longer, Live Smarter: Planning For Care in an Age of Medical Breakthroughs and Longer Lives."
👤 With decades of experience in long-term care and Medicare planning, the Queen of Long-Term Care Planning and Funding will share how to prepare for care in this new era.

📅 Tuesday, October 27, 2026
📅 6:00 - 7:00 PM (Virtual Presentation)

Registration link in my bio!

10/14/2026

is one of those funky, fun, and unforgettable stops on Galena’s Main Street. On our latest visit, we were shopping for gifts for my niece and nephew with help from a new friend - and daughter of Poopsies ’s owner - Kiera. We had an absolute blast finding the perfect gifts—and even received creative ideas and assistance for our photo shoot so we could promote Poopsie’s when we returned homes is one of those funky, fun, and unforgettable stops on Galena’s Main Street. On our latest visit, we were shopping for gifts for my niece and nephew with help from a new friend - and daughter of Poopsies ’s owner - Kiera. We had an absolute blast finding the perfect gifts—and even received creative ideas and assistance for our photo shoot so we could promote Poopsie’s when we returned home.

From educational toys and clever games to unique gifts you won’t find just anywhere, Poopsie’s has something to spark curiosity and bring out your inner child. Best of all, the team brings the energy, patience, and enthusiasm to help you find something that’s just right for everyone on your list.

Whether you’re shopping for children or fun stuff for adults, Poopsie’s is a must-stop destination. With a birthday or holiday always around every corner, you’ll find plenty of wonderful gifts—and plenty of fun—waiting inside. No

Poopsie's of Galena

10/14/2026

Where is your money actually going each month? Use this budgeting tool to break down your income and expenses and spot opportunities to do more with what you have.

Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.

10/12/2026

At Home in Galena is one of those Main Street stops that keeps us coming back. From the wonderful flameless soy candles and unique gifts to the many treasures that make you want to take a little piece of Galena home with you, Bill and Patty Murphy have created a shop that truly feels like home.

There’s also a very special story behind one of the product lines we love - Finley Grace, named after Bill and Patty’s beloved granddaughter, who is living with Cri-du-chat syndrome.

Proceeds from the Finley Grace collection help contribute to the extensive care and support needed throughout their granddaughter’s life. You can learn more about Finley Grace and the Murphys’ mission on their website, www.finleygracecandles.com.

We love discovering the stories behind the people and businesses that make Galena so special.

If you’re walking Main Street, At Home in Galena is a must-visit stop.

10/09/2026

The Grape Escape is hands down our favorite place in Galena for craft cocktails, tasty food, great music, and most of all, the best people who work there. Owned and operated by Catherine - aka Miss Kitty - and her husband Rick, also a volunteer Galena firefighter, we continue to be impressed by the camaraderie, friendship, and longevity of the entire Grape Escape team.

Here’s Paula and me with my favorite cocktail, the contest winning “Paula,” which I’ve enjoyed during every visit since the very first one - the day that fancy dry ice chiller machine was put into operation. This craft cocktail bubbles with plumes of cascading white v***r from the dry ice packed in the bottom of a special glass. Topped off with champaign, the “Paula” is absolutely my favorite.

It may not be on the menu any longer, but they continue to make it for me. During our September 43rd anniversary visit, here’s a moment with Rick, showing off my new Miss Kitty T-shirt – a most thoughtful gift. These people and the place rock in so many ways. If you’re visiting Galena, don’t miss spending some time at The Grape Escape. You’ll understand why we keep coming back.

The Grape Escape

10/07/2026

43 years of marriage, with nearly every anniversary celebrated in Galena and most of those years at the historic DeSoto House Hotel. We’re already making reservations for next year.

After so many years, we are recognized throughout the hotel and the team there feels like family. Here’s Carol invited behind the reception desk with Manager John, making reservations for anniversary #44.

Upon arrival, we found ch*****ne and chocolates waiting in our room with two glasses ready for a toast, along with white washcloths thoughtfully shaped in a heart on the bed covered in rose petals. We’re so grateful for this home away from home, the warm gestures, and the special friends we’ve made at DeSoto House over the years. Some traditions are simply too special to change. . .

DeSoto House Hotel Visit Galena

10/07/2026

Ever heard of a Roth 401(k)? Would one be right for you?

Roth 401(k) plans combine features of traditional 401(k) plans with those of a Roth IRA.

10/05/2026

For 43 years, Galena has been part of our story.

Jim and I began visiting this wonderful town more than four decades ago, and through the years, nearly every wedding anniversary has brought us back. What started as a favorite getaway became a tradition - and somewhere along the way, Galena began to feel a little like home.

After 43 years, it’s no longer just the historic buildings, beautiful scenery, shops, restaurants, or places we stay that bring us back. It’s the people.
We’ve watched businesses grow and change, discovered favorite places we return to year after year, and formed friendships with some truly special people who recognize us when we walk through the door — and who have become part of our Galena memories.
So, in celebration of 43 years of marriage and 43 years of visiting Galena, we’re going to share a bit about our favorite spots and special people that keep us coming back.
Some are longtime favorites. Some hold wonderful memories. And some simply represent the warmth and hospitality that, for us, make Galena so special.
Here’s to 43 years of memories - and a few of our favorite Galena places along the way. ❤️
First stop coming up . . .

09/30/2026

We Really Are Different -
Tacky Tourist? Not quite our style for the themed farewell evening with Independent Financial Group (IFG) last month in San Diego. We chose to be different and dressed in Western chic meets cool Chicago cowboy. I even found a beaded cow print handbag in my closet not visible in the photo 😊.
Perhaps our twist on the suggested theme fit us better than we realized.
After another inspiring educational conference with IFG, we were reminded by other attendees that we really are different.
Jim Brandt brings a Warren Buffett-inspired investment approach to portfolio modeling and, for qualified clients per SEC guidelines, access to a Performance-Based Fee platform that can make people stop and say, “We didn’t know that was possible.”
I focus my side of the practice on long-term care planning and funding strategies, leaving no stone unturned. Clients and friends call me the Queen of Long-Term Care Planning.
Different specialties. Different approaches—but the same philosophy: help those who need help and exceed expectations in all that we do.
Sometimes there are possibilities we simply don’t know exist until someone shows us.
And, of course, Sophie is usually around to make certain we address the “elephant in the room”.

09/30/2026

This time of year, you may hear the phrase "tax-loss harvesting." Before moving ahead, it's best to get some guidance from a financial professional who is familiar with the strategy.