September Highlights: What We're Reading, Watching, Making & Where We're Going

Melissa Kolcz |
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Beyond the Portfolio

Welcome to this month’s Beyond the Portfolio — a peek into what’s inspiring our team outside the office! From thought-provoking reads and binge-worthy shows to new recipes we’re testing and places we’re exploring, here’s what’s fueling our curiosity and creativity lately. Dive in and discover something new with us!

1. What We're Reading
 
Book of the Month: "As someone who is genuinely concerned about AI and the potential implications it poses, I was excited to dive into The Myth of Artificial Intelligence by Erik Larson. His book pushes back against the belief that machines are on the verge of matching human intelligence. He explains how today’s AI excels at narrow tasks but still lacks the commonsense reasoning, creativity, and adaptability that humans bring to the table. Larson argues that true breakthroughs will require new scientific discoveries, not just bigger algorithms, and reminds us that in an AI-driven world, uniquely human qualities like judgment, imagination, compassion and interaction remain irreplaceable. The book is both a reality check and a call to value what only humans can do!"
 
- Katie Brennan Kane, Managing Partner & CCO
 

2. What We're Watching

Show of the Month: 'Wayward is a dark, psychological thriller set in the seemingly idyllic town of Tall Pines, where a new police officer and his pregnant wife uncover disturbing secrets surrounding a reform school for troubled teens. Created by and starring Mae Martin alongside Toni Collette, the series weaves mystery, cult-like control, and emotional drama as both adults and teens navigate manipulation, trauma, and hidden power structures. Gripping and unsettling, Wayward is perfect for fans of slow-burning thrillers with morally complex characters and eerie small-town secrets.'

- Jayme Rose-Franklin, Client Experience Associate

3. What We're Making

Recipe of the Month: 'It’s officially soup and crockpot season; my favorite time of year to slow down and cozy up with something warm and comforting. Erik makes an amazing Chicken Tortilla Soup that comes together easily with rotisserie chicken, taco seasoning, and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated cheddar. If you’re craving something cozy that also happens to pair perfectly with a margarita, this is the one!'

- Kelli Grew, Co-President and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™  

4. Where We're Going

Trip of the Month: 'I just got back from an unforgettable trip to Ogontz White Mountains Resort in New Hampshire, where we celebrated my sister’s perfect wedding weekend — stunning views, crisp mountain air, and so much love all around. Couldn’t have asked for a better backdrop or a more joyful occasion.

Back home, we kept the Fall magic going with a visit to Crow’s Farm in Sandwich for some classic apple picking with the kids. Rows of ripe apples, scarecrows and an epic corn maze — the perfect way to welcome the season! '

- Melissa Kolcz, Director, Client Experience

5. What We're Doing

Event of the Month: For those who couldn’t make it, we put together a quick recap of our recent brain health seminar! We covered key strategies for boosting cognitive wellness, including nutrition tips, stress management, sleep optimization, and the latest research on brain aging. It was an insightful session packed with practical takeaways — stay tuned for more resources and future events!

Thanks for taking the time to catch up with us! We hope you found something inspiring, useful, or just plain fun in this edition.  Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and exclusive recommendations!