One of the most reoccurring trends that I see is how they view investing... and that rather viewing it as an investment, many of them feel that they’re just spending money that could be spent elsewhere. And understandably so, as the cost of living has risen so high – but remember, I’ve had episodes in the past demonstrate that it’s about consistency over time, even if those investments are on the smaller side.

I wanted to dedicate an episode to a common scenario that most likely hits home for most U.S citizens. With numerous lines of debt piling up, from credit cards to loans.. How does one get out of the hole that they’ve dug for themselves over the years? When will someone invest for retirement if all they can afford is to pay off their debt? Well, there’s a certain process to it – or else individuals may find themselves just opening another line of credit when times get hard.

We have a very special guest. Not only a friend of mine, but a friend to many, especially in our local area. Kelly Wernersbach with Adjust Your Sleep Mattress Boutique. I met Kelly at a Marlton Business Association lunch – a local business group. Before I even met Kelly, I would hear about the amazing things she was doing like partnerships with local nonprofits, networking events with a purpose/cause... I could tell, Kelly ran her business with her heart. And she truly is a wonderful human being – Welcome to Fast & Finance, Kelly!

I wanted to dedicate this episode to financial plans – and not just financial plans for the ordinary scenario – but financial plans for young adults. We normally only hear of people getting one together as they approach retirement, but what if I said it’s never too early to start planning? Well, let’s start here. What is an actual financial plan? .....

I wanted to dedicate an episode to the idea of building a team of professionals to be on your side for a wide range of financial related topics. Whether that’s finding the right financial advisor for you, accountant, attorney, or life insurance agent. Like in any profession, there are going to be individuals who genuinely care about your situation rather than make a quick dollar from you. It can be overwhelming, meeting with several professionals in the same industry and trying to pick the best one for you.

If you saw the title of this episode, chances are you’re getting started with investing or maybe you’re just considering it... but congratulations, because that’s the first step! I always tell people that the hardest part is normally just getting started and learning how to be comfortable with having money invested in the market. Fear not, if you have a plan in mind and means of holding yourself accountable, you’ll be alright.

I know in the past I have done episodes on employer sponsored accounts, and when I say that, think of 401(k)s. But what about the individuals who own their own business or possibly work for a smaller company, a startup, etc.. Some of those individuals don’t have access to a 401(k), and they’re unaware of the other options out there for them and their business. Hopefully after this episode – whether you’re a small business owner or an employee at one, you’ll know what option makes the most sense for your situation.

I wanted to dedicate this episode to something that normally goes unnoticed, or unattended to over time. In past episodes, I’ve discussed the importance of having an emergency fund of cash, enough to last for 4-6 months of expenses. You see most people just leave that cash either in their checking account, or a savings account not getting the best interest.