Tipping has long been ingrained in American culture, but many people don’t realize just how much it has evolved—and how costly it has become. What was once a small bonus for good service has turned into an expectation, even in situations where it was never traditionally required. This shift has left many consumers feeling confused and even frustrated, especially as digital payment systems make it easier than ever to nudge people into tipping more.
by Eliska Vance | March 19, 2025
Hey folks, let's talk about something I'm seeing more and more of in my practice: the rise of the American side hustle. It's not just a trend; it's a genuine shift in how people are approaching their finances. In today's economic climate, where living costs are climbing and financial security feels increasingly elusive, many are turning to supplemental income streams to bridge the gap. We're seeing everything from online tutoring and freelance writing to gig delivery services and crafting businesses. This isn't just about making ends meet; it's about taking control and building a more resilient financial future.
by Leighton Cole | March 14, 2025
I've been sitting across the table from a lot of folks lately, and the same concern keeps popping up: are Americans truly prepared for retirement? It's not just the numbers on a statement; it's the gnawing feeling that something's missing. You see, the landscape has shifted. We're living longer, healthcare costs are skyrocketing, and the traditional pension is becoming a relic of the past. It’s no wonder people are feeling a sense of unease.
by Corinne Shaw | March 13, 2025
Let's cut to the chase: that Costco membership card in your wallet—is it a financial win or a money pit? I get this question constantly from folks across the US, and the answer, as with most things in personal finance, is a resounding "it depends." It's not a one-size-fits-all situation. A single person in a small city apartment is going to have a vastly different experience than a family of five in the suburbs.
by Leighton Cole | March 10, 2025
Let's be real, the American financial landscape often feels like a minefield. You're bombarded with conflicting advice, fluctuating markets, and the constant pressure to "keep up." But stripping away the jargon, it boils down to a few core principles. You, and you alone, are the CEO of your financial life.
by Eliska Vance | March 6, 2025
When a cancer diagnosis hits, the focus naturally shifts to treatment and survival. But as a financial advisor, I see the ripple effect that often devastates families: the unseen financial burden. It’s not just the chemotherapy or surgery costs, though those are significant. It’s the cascade of expenses that follow, often catching people off guard.
by Tierney Ross | March 4, 2025
Reaching 55 and beyond often brings a shift in perspective. It's no longer just about building a nest egg, but about what that nest egg will mean for those we leave behind. This stage of life invites us to consider a legacy that goes beyond mere financial transfer. It’s about weaving our values, experiences, and care for loved ones into a lasting tapestry.
by Bryony Vale | March 3, 2025
Look, we’re not playing games. I’m seeing good people, hard-working Americans, getting squeezed from all sides. Inflation’s a monster, interest rates are biting, and the news is a constant barrage of economic doom. It’s not just Wall Street jitters; it’s the panic of wondering how you’ll afford groceries, gas, or even keep the house warm. I’ve talked to folks in every walk of life, and the same fear is there. You’re not imagining it.
by Tierney Ross | February 28, 2025
It’s understandable to feel a bit uneasy when trade winds shift, especially with tariffs making headlines. As your financial advisor, I want to assure you that while these changes can introduce volatility, they don’t necessitate panic. Instead, they call for a measured, strategic approach to safeguarding your financial health. We’ve seen this before, and we can navigate it again.
by Leighton Cole | February 27, 2025
The economy's been sending mixed signals, hasn't it? We've seen some encouraging signs with inflation starting to cool a bit, which is a relief. It's like that persistent headache finally easing. But, we can't ignore the fact that things still feel a little unsettled. The job market, while still relatively healthy, seems to be showing some signs of a slowdown. It's like watching a marathon runner who's starting to lose a bit of steam.
by Eliska Vance | February 26, 2025
Welcome, new Americans, to the land of opportunity! You’ve taken a bold step, and as a financial advisor who's seen many journeys, I understand the excitement and, yes, the overwhelm that comes with starting fresh. Let's talk about building your financial foundation here. Forget the glossy brochures for a moment, and let’s get real. The first challenge? Understanding the sheer complexity of the American financial system. It's not just about dollars and cents; it's about credit scores, healthcare costs that can surprise even seasoned locals, and a tax system that seems designed to confuse.
by Corinne Shaw | February 25, 2025
It's easy to get swept up in the global market, chasing the next big tech trend or international commodity. But sometimes, the most solid financial decisions are rooted right here at home. As a financial advisor, I've seen firsthand how investing in American businesses can not only bolster your portfolio but also contribute to the economic health of our communities.
by Eliska Vance | February 24, 2025
It's a gut-wrenching feeling, isn't it? That sudden realization that your savings, the money you diligently worked for, might be gone. We've all seen the headlines, and unfortunately, I've had to console too many clients who've fallen victim to increasingly sophisticated scams. Just this week, I spoke with a woman from Ohio who lost a significant portion of her retirement fund to a convincing "fraud alert" from what she thought was her bank. The scammers, posing as legitimate representatives, used caller ID spoofing and even mirrored the bank's website to gain her trust. She followed their instructions, transferring funds under the guise of "protecting" her account, only to discover the money vanished into thin air.
by Tierney Ross | February 20, 2025