In recent years, small businesses across the United States have encountered a complex and ever-changing economic landscape. While they remain a critical backbone of the economy, these businesses are increasingly feeling the impact of macroeconomic shifts, such as inflation, changing consumer behavior, and evolving regulatory environments. Small business owners are often the first to experience the ripple effects of these changes, and understanding how to navigate these waters will be crucial in ensuring their survival and growth.
by Leighton Cole | April 3, 2025
Discovering unauthorized transactions on your bank account or credit card can be a gut-wrenching experience. Whether it’s a small, suspicious charge or a wiped-out account, financial fraud can feel personal and overwhelming. The good news is that quick action can minimize damage and increase the chances of recovering lost money. Knowing what steps to take can make all the difference.
by Jules Bellweather | March 31, 2025
Scams aren’t just a problem for the elderly—young Americans are falling victim at an alarming rate. With their lives deeply connected to social media, digital banking, and gig work, scammers have found new ways to exploit their habits. Many young adults believe they’re too tech-savvy to be fooled, but fraudsters are constantly evolving, using psychological tricks and technology to gain their trust.
by Tierney Ross | March 31, 2025
Scammers have always gone after older adults, but their tactics have become more sophisticated and harder to detect. Every year, American seniors lose billions of dollars to fraud, with schemes ranging from fake government calls to elaborate investment scams. Many victims don’t realize what’s happening until it’s too late, and by then, their savings, pensions, or even homes can be at risk.
by Leighton Cole | March 31, 2025
With so much financial advice available online, it’s never been easier—or riskier—to follow the wrong guidance. From TikTok money hacks to YouTube investment gurus, personal finance influencers are shaping how millions of Americans save, invest, and spend. But how do you know who’s giving solid advice and who’s just trying to sell you something?
by Aurelia Finch | March 31, 2025
Every year, millions of Americans lose billions of dollars to scams. From phishing emails and fraudulent phone calls to sophisticated investment schemes, fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics. Despite growing awareness and increased security measures, people across all age groups and income levels continue to fall victim. The question is: why?
by Corinne Shaw | March 31, 2025
Americans are feeling the weight of debt like never before. From mortgages and student loans to credit cards and auto financing, household debt has reached historic highs, leaving many struggling to keep up. While borrowing has long been a tool for building wealth and achieving life goals, the current economic climate is making it harder to stay ahead. Rising interest rates, inflation, and stagnant wages are compounding the problem, turning what was once manageable into a source of financial anxiety.
by Corinne Shaw | March 27, 2025
The American Dream is supposed to mean prosperity, but for many, it now feels more like a financial endurance test. Rising costs, stagnant wages, and mounting debt have left millions feeling drained—both mentally and financially. Burnout isn’t just happening at work; it’s creeping into wallets, savings accounts, and everyday spending decisions.
by Bryony Vale | March 25, 2025
Investing doesn’t have to be a high-stakes game. While some chase big returns with aggressive strategies, others prioritize stability, aiming for steady, low-risk growth. If you're looking for a way to grow your wealth without sleepless nights over market crashes, there are solid options that balance security and returns.
by Eliska Vance | March 20, 2025
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
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