Blog - Thistle Wealth

Getting to Know Ellen Johnson, Founder of Thistle Wealth

Planning for Long-Term Care: A Simple Guide

Written by Ellen Johnson. Posted in Blog.

You’ve worked hard to build your retirement savings. The last thing anyone wants is for a single, unexpected expense to throw your plans off track. One of the biggest risks many retirees overlook is long-term care (LTC).

LTC covers help with everyday activities (ex. bathing, dressing, or eating) whether that care is provided at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing facility. In Oregon, the average cost for nursing facility care is over $7,100 per month and it’s been climbing quickly, nearly 10% per year. Neighboring states have seen similar increases, with Washington averaging over 13% annually and California more than 16%.

Without a plan, these expenses can put significant strain on even the most carefully built portfolios. The good news? You have options, and the earlier you explore them, the more choices you’ll have.

Getting to Know Ellen Johnson, Founder of Thistle Wealth

Written by Ellen Johnson. Posted in Blog.

At Thistle Wealth, I work with people in transition—whether they're entering retirement, reevaluating their next chapter, or balancing careers and family life. Many of my clients are women, but not all. What they all share is a desire to align their money with their values and move forward with confidence. In this Q&A, I’m sharing more about my background, why I love this work, and how I define financial success for myself and my clients.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about your job?
That we use the same playbook for everyone. In truth, each client brings a distinct set of goals, challenges, and circumstances. The part I enjoy most is crafting a strategy that’s completely tailored—because no two lives, and no two plans, are the same. As someone who loves solving puzzles, I find deep fulfillment in building something unique with every client.

What Is a Fiduciary Advisor and Why Does It Matter for Your Financial Future?

Written by Ellen Johnson. Posted in Blog.

If you're approaching retirement, recently experienced the loss of a spouse, or navigating a major life transition, understanding what a fiduciary advisor is - and why it matters - is crucial to your financial confidence and peace of mind.

Where Your Money Really Goes (Hint: Not to Me)

Written by Ellen Johnson. Posted in Blog.

One of the most common, and important, questions I hear from prospective clients is, “Where does my money go when I work with you?” It’s a smart question that every investor should ask.

The answer might surprise you: as your Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), I never hold your money. Instead, your funds and investments are securely held by an independent third-party custodian. In our case, Charles Schwab.