IamAFCPE Archives - AFCPE https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/tag/iamafcpe/ Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education Mon, 11 Aug 2025 20:24:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.afcpe.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/afcpe-favicon.png IamAFCPE Archives - AFCPE https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/tag/iamafcpe/ 32 32 #Friday Follow: Disrupting Historical Patterns https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-disrupting-historical-patterns/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-disrupting-historical-patterns/#respond Fri, 26 Oct 2018 16:55:30 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=6536 Scott Henderson is a Texas-based AFC® working full-time at a financial planning firm while pursuing his Master’s Degree and running a business and website called Simplifinances. Scott’s vision is to help young people and middle-class Americans simplify their finances so they can start living a life of financial independence. AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field and do this work? Scott: When I […]

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Scott Henderson is a Texas-based AFC® working full-time at a financial planning firm while pursuing his Master’s Degree and running a business and website called Simplifinances. Scott’s vision is to help young people and middle-class Americans simplify their finances so they can start living a life of financial independence.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field and do this work?

Scott: When I was eight years old my father walked out of my life. He left me and my four siblings. He also left a mountain of debt. After the divorce, my mom discovered a half a million dollars in unpaid debts with a lot of it being in her name. Of course, she couldn’t make the payments and was forced to file bankruptcy. We stayed in our house for 18 months before the bank knocked on our door and kicked us out. We were homeless living on food stamps and my mom did everything she could to get off of government support. I didn’t realize it at the time but we had nothing. We moved from place to place for years. My mom worked two jobs and tried to keep our expenses as low as possible.

My mom is one of my greatest examples and mentors to me. There were times she wanted to give up, but she never did. She could have blamed others for what happened but she took responsibility and was determined to get us out. She pulled us out of poverty, climbing the economic ladder and helped us become independent and self-reliant. She took it upon herself to learn about personal finance and teach her kids. I learned from a young age I was in charge of my financial future and committed to doing things differently throughout my life. I know what it’s like to have nothing and I want to help as many people as I can avoid money problems and live a life of meaning and independence.

AFCPE: What an inspiring story! It’s easy to see what drives your passion and commitment to this work. Speaking of your work, you also started a blog and business, Simplifinances. Tell us more about it and the impact you are hoping to make.

Scott: After becoming an Accredited Financial Counselor®, I had a few people reach out to me for help. I had always planned to start a business at some point but I officially started it in January, 2018. When I first started, I only planned to do financial coaching. But it has also grown into a blog as well as speaking. The impact that I’m hoping to have is to help as many people as I can get the most out of their personal finances.

AFCPE: What advice do you have for any other professionals looking to start their own business or blog?

Scott: It’s better to do something imperfectly than nothing flawlessly. Just start.

AFCPE: You were previously a Director at the PMMC (Personal Money Management Center) at the University of Utah. How important is it to have these resources and tools at colleges and universities?

Scott: It’s extremely important! I think that every college and university should have a resource where students can go for help with their personal finances.

AFCPE: We couldn’t agree with you more! What’s next for you? What has you most excited?

Scott: I plan to finish my Master’s degree next year (if I can pass my classes) and a lot of other exciting things are coming up in the near future. Perhaps a book, maybe a podcast? I guess we’ll wait and see.

 

Scott answers the Friday 5:

My Why: I want people to remember me at my funeral because of what I did not what I said I was going to do.

My Favorite Quote: “The pursuit of easy things makes men weak.”

My Hero: My mom

My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Podcasts – I discovered podcasts last year and they have been my number one resource for personal finances.

My best advice:

  1. For someone starting their journey to financial wellness: No one is going to care for your money more than you. It’s important to take responsibility for your situation and educate yourself when it comes to personal finance.
  2. For a new professional entering this field: You have to believe in what you are doing and truly do what is best for the client. You wouldn’t think that doing the right thing for ALL your clients would be such a hard thing but apparently, with the way the financial services industry is set up, it’s easy for financial professional to forget about their clients and only focus on the bottom line. People need your help and you have to find a way to truly serve them. Not just sell them products or manage their assets, people need so much more than that.

 

You can follow Scott at:

Website: www.simplifinances.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/simplifinances

Instagramwww.instagram.com/simplifinances

Twitter: www.twitter.com/simplifinances

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/simplifinances

www.linkedin.com/in/scotthenderson3

October 26, 2018

Scott Henderson, AFC®, AFCPE® Member

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#FridayFollow – Having less ≠ deserving less. https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-having-less-%e2%89%a0-deserving-less-2/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-having-less-%e2%89%a0-deserving-less-2/#comments Fri, 03 Aug 2018 16:23:23 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2795 “My life journey has always been to make my corner of the world a better place”. This week, we catch up with AFCPE’s financial coaching partner, Saundra Davis of Sage Financial Solutions. Saundra was recently honored for her work as an adjunct professor at Golder Gate University and shares with us some of the exciting initiatives she is involved with […]

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“My life journey has always been to make my corner of the world a better place”.

This week, we catch up with AFCPE’s financial coaching partner, Saundra Davis of Sage Financial Solutions. Saundra was recently honored for her work as an adjunct professor at Golder Gate University and shares with us some of the exciting initiatives she is involved with in the field of financial coaching. Learn how her mission and her “why” keep her connected to this important work.

AFCPE: Congratulations on being a recently recognized as a Distinguished Adjunct Professor at Golden Gate University!

Saundra: Thank you! This is quite an honor for me because I went to Golden Gate for my BS in management and returned 10 years later for my master’s in financial planning. I was the 2006 financial planning student of the year AND the 2016 adjunct professor of the year for the financial planning department. This is important to me because I value education and professional development which is the cornerstone of all of my work in the field. During this journey, I have created pro bono planning programs for CFP professionals to help them be more sensitive to the needs of low-income communities and have been diligent in making sure that the nonprofit sector increases the standards of knowledge and professionalism for their clients.

When I started, most organizations didn’t believe that poor people needed comprehensive financial plans, I am proud to say that now that message is out and organizations and communities are getting the message. Having less with which to plan does NOT mean you deserve less from a financial planner, counselor or coach.

AFCPE: One of the reasons you partnered with AFCPE® when designing the FFC® program is because you are passionate about the importance of a high standard in the field of financial coaching. Why are standards so important to the field and to the people that we serve?


Saundra: This really highlights my “why” for everything I do in this profession. So many people are struggling and simply don’t know what to do or whom to trust. Elevating the highest standard for professional services for ALL people has been my mission since I joined the field and it is good to see others coming to understand that mediocrity simply isn’t good enough. Partnering with the AFCPE allowed me to focus my attention on the coaching skills with the knowledge that the people sitting in the room had the financial competencies necessary to TRULY help people navigate their complex financial lives. The entire continuum of care for financial services should be available to all people irrespective of their income or assets. Before this partnership, my biggest fear was that I could be training someone to be an effective financial coach who didn’t have the financial competencies and ethical standards necessary to help clients manage their financial lives and all of the opportunities and obstacles they face.
 

AFCPE: In addition to teaching and program development, you’ve also been doing a lot of important training in the nonprofit community. Tell us a little about these programs. What are you most proud of and what are you most excited about in the months to come?

Saundra: There are too many to add here but I’ll share a few that really stand out because of the community impact.

Brilliant Baby is a children’s saving program in Oakland, California that provides a $500 529 account and a financial coach for families with new babies. The idea is to provide practical support for parents and honor the promise that each child holds at birth. We know that the parents’ needs can fall ANYWHERE on the financial lifecycle so we require that each coach hold both the AFC® and the FFC®.

The United Way Capital Corridor Region, which is in Sacramento California is a capacity building project that has been going on for 2 years during which time 50 members of community-based organizations participated in coaching skills and financial education basics. The goal is to build the skills of the local community by setting a high standard and training large groups to have baseline skills and support a smaller number, 10 in the first year and 5 in the second, to complete both the AFC® and the FFC® certification programs. We did this by web-based mentor sessions to prepare them for the AFC to meet the financial competency requirement for the FFC.

We are doing a similar project in Las Vegas, Nevada with 50 people from 4 organizations that provide housing support and career training (they do SO much more than this so visit their websites)*. Forty-seven of the 50 have now completed the Money Management Essentials course and 15 are going on to become FFCs!

Each of these projects demonstrates that by investing in the staff with training that includes education, experience, and ethical standards, the professional standards increase in the community and the ongoing professional development helps them continue to build their skills.

AFCPE: Our November Coaching Essentials training in Norfolk, VA is quickly approaching! What would you say to someone who is on the fence about attending?


Saundra: As financial professionals,  we must ALWAYS hone our skills and knowledge. Adding coaching to your toolkit will enhance your ability to help your clients identify what is most important to them and create, in partnership with you, a roadmap to achieve their goals. The coaching approach is often more effective for the client and better for the coach.

 

Saundra Answers the Friday 5:

My Why: To be of service. My life journey has always been to make my corner of the world a better place.
My Favorite Quote: If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. – Maya Angelou
My Hero: My mother
My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: CFPB booklets
My best advice: 
– For someone starting the journey to financial wellness: Breathe, start where you are, hold yourself and your money past without shame. Create for yourself a #NoShameZone about the financial past and focus on your financial future.
– For a new professional entering this field: Breathe, start where you are, focus your attention on the impact you want to have and don’t allow anyone to tell you “it has to be done this way” if your vision takes you in a different direction. BE EXCELLENT for yourself and your clients. Keep learning, strive to meet the highest standard in your knowledge, skill, and approach to supporting clients.

Follow Saundra at:

Facebook: @sagemoney

Twitter: @sagemoney


LinkedIn: Saundra D. Davis

Website: http://sagefinancialsolutions.org/

 

*The 4 organizations that provide housing support and career training

Oakland Promise (Brilliant Baby Program) – http://oaklandpromise.org/programs/brilliantbaby/

Nevada Hand – https://www.nevadahand.org/

Nevada Partners – http://www.nevadapartners.org/

United Way California Capital Region – http://www.yourlocalunitedway.org/financial-coaching

August 03, 2018

Interview with Saundra Davis, Executive Director of Sage Financial Solutions

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#Friday Follow – Coaching from the Heart https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-coaching-from-the-heart/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-coaching-from-the-heart/#respond Fri, 27 Jul 2018 16:35:37 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2800 Kristy Tubbs is a woman on a mission. She is and the president of Piece of Heart Financial Counseling & Life Coaching, where she teaches people how to heal the heart from the pain of financial woes. In this interview, she shares about her journey from military spouse to financial coach of money and the heart. AFCPE: What inspired you […]

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Kristy Tubbs is a woman on a mission. She is and the president of Piece of Heart Financial Counseling & Life Coaching, where she teaches people how to heal the heart from the pain of financial woes. In this interview, she shares about her journey from military spouse to financial coach of money and the heart.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field? How did you find out about AFCPE?   

Kristy: I graduated from college and became a school teacher. During this time, I become passionate about the communication techniques I was able to teach couples as they came for parent/teacher conferences. This inspired me to go back to school to become a marriage counselor. It was during those years as a marriage counselor that I developed my communication techniques about money and marriage. Being a firm believer of “Stay in your lane”, I felt that I needed more education and training to provide excellence for my clients.  While doing a marriage workshop for a military organization, a member of the Family Services group told me about the FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship. I applied and was awarded the scholarship to earn my AFC®designation in 2009.  In 2010, I completed my coursework and was awarded my AFC designation.  As a military spouse, the focus of my business has always been to help military spouses find portable careers that allow them to support their family with freedom to move AND bring in an income. The AFC designation does just that!

AFCPE: You’ve since gone on to earn the FFC® certification as well. What impact have the AFC and FFC certifications made towards your work as a Marriage Counselor and Life Coach?   

Kristy: Having already worked in financial coaching and marriage counseling prior to earning the AFC & FFC certifications, I approached my further education a bit differently than most.  I came to the courses seeking mentoring to enhance my successful qualities and find focus and tools to change my weaker areas. The program provided exactly what I was seeking and gave me the confidence to expand my business. 

AFCPE: You started your own business, Piece of Heart Financial Counseling. Tell us a little more about your organization.

Kristy: Piece of Heart Financial Counseling & Life Coaching exists to help people heal their heart from the pain that money, or the lack of money, has caused. We started the company because as a military spouse, I found myself re-starting a new career with every move. As a marriage counselor, I created a business model that allows us to serve people in any state or country.

As I became successful, I wanted to share my knowledge with other military spouses, so, we created a mentor program to help military spouses jump start their own businesses.

AFCPE: What advice you give to someone who wants to start a private practice?   

When starting your business, know your destination. I knew I wanted to hold workshops around the world to teach financial and marriage communication and with the help of God and some amazing team members, I created the world I desired. 

Also, KNOW YOUR WORTH! So many people told me to start small and bid low because people needing financial wisdom would not pay. I never do anything small! I was already charging fees of $500 an hour for my services, so I saw no reason why adding a designation should not allow for that continued fee. If you can validate your fee, then charge it and do not look back! When people see the outcome of your influence in their lives, they will find a way to pay. 

To serve those who cannot afford to pay? Set up volunteer hours with local nonprofit organizations, allowing your clients to work with these organizations on behalf of your company name and in lieu of paying hourly fees to you!  That way you grow your impact and name in the community while changing the lives of all around! 

AFCPE: That’s a creative way to market and give back! Tell us, what’s next? What’s got you most excited?   

Kristy: I am very excited that we have several new contracts coming in and will hopefully be hiring even more people soon. I continue to bring financial wisdom to our military members and families through various government venues and the Yellow Ribbon program. Our television show will be coming out soon and my new book is due out in late September! We just completed booking the final 4 venues of the year for our “Build Your Dreams”, workshops. This one-day workshop teaches future business owners how to recognize their strengths, focus their vision, and develop their dream into the reality of a successful grand opening.

Kristy answers the Friday 5

1.     My Why:  I believe everyone needs someone who believes in them. When people are struggling and cannot see a way to the other side, hope is a POWERFUL gift to provide. Therefore, I live my life looking to provide hope in the midst of pain, to teach peace in the midst of turmoil, and I do it by believing in the potential of every person I meet.   

2.     My Favorite Quote: From the Bible, Luke 6:38, “Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” It keeps me happy to give and to see the joy of a changed life!

3.     My Hero: Gloria Gonzalves, my mother is my hero! She was the driving force behind all of the businesses my family created. As a young woman I was taught to love big, give big, and chase after your dreams. Because of her unending support and mentoring, I had no doubt I would one day be a business owner in my own right and would continue her legacy of loving big, serving big and leaving a legacy for those who come behind me. I would not be here today if it were not for my mom–my friend, my business partner, and my mentor for life!

4.     My Favorite Personal Finance Resource:  www.powerpay.org I could not have built a better website! We use it in every presentation to teach people how to safely create pay off plans!

5.     My best advice:  

a.     For someone starting the journey to financial well-being:  Your life is about more than the sum of your past mistakes! So, START your financial journey today! Stand up. Take 1 step every day. Access your credit score. Repair your credit. Try and try again. Because, small daily successes will create large annual rewards! 

b.     For a new professional entering this field:  This will be one of the most rewarding and the most grieving careers of your life. Often times, it all happens in the same day! But, when you give of yourself to bring financial wisdom to others, something magical occurs. When you think you are changing someone’s life, you find out they are actually changing yours! If there is any way I can support you, please let me know at kristy@kristytubbs.com.

Follow Kristy at:

Email: kristy@kristytubbs.com

Facebook: @pieceofheartfinancial

Twitter: @moneyandheart

LinkedIn: @KristyTubbs

Website:  www.kristytubbs.com 

July 27, 2018

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#FridayFollow – “Focusing on U” https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-focusing-on-u/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-focusing-on-u/#respond Fri, 13 Jul 2018 16:43:37 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2815 Vivian Padua is a financial coach and trainer who is passionate about helping clients become financially capable and mindful in their money management. Through her private practice, “Focus On U Coach”, she provides a wholistic approach to financial coaching, education, and training. When she isn’t working with clients, Vivian serves as a mentor coach for the FFC® (Financial Fitness Coach) program, […]

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Vivian Padua is a financial coach and trainer who is passionate about helping clients become financially capable and mindful in their money management. Through her private practice, “Focus On U Coach”, she provides a wholistic approach to financial coaching, education, and training. When she isn’t working with clients, Vivian serves as a mentor coach for the FFC® (Financial Fitness Coach) program, supporting others on their journey to become a financial coach.

AFCPE: What inspired you to become a financial coach?

Vivian: Back in 2009, I attended a volunteer financial coach training offered through my job at an adult literacy program. The trainer was Saundra Davis. Once I attended the first day, I was hooked. I understood the financial challenges that individuals had because I went through them myself. It was important to me to help make a difference in others’ lives.

AFCPE: We know what you mean. We’re hooked on her approach as well! We especially love that it aligns with our passion of “meeting people where they are”. Tell us how you meet people where they are.

Vivian: I create a trusting and honest space for clients. I listen without an agenda or judgment. I stay present with clients and provide a space where they feel comfortable sharing their life stories. By building this container, we are able to establish concrete financial and life goals.

AFCPE: That is an amazing approach! It’s very passionate, holistic, and honest. What’s up next for you? What’s got you most excited?

Vivian: I’m excited to hone in on my current skills and develop more by taking continuing education, participating in workshops and networking with like-minded individuals. Also, next quarter, I will be interacting more with AFC®candidates as an AFC® Webinar Review instructor.

 

Vivian Answers the Friday 5:

  1. My Why:

Legacy. I want to leave a legacy to my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren (to come) of financial knowledge that will help them be abundant and create the financial success they want. Anything is possible!

  1. My Favorite Quote:

“Focus on what you want, take action, and the Universe will provide.”

  1. My Hero:

 My Dad who recently passed in December 2017 instilled good work ethics, kindness and helped me financially to start my coaching certification.

  1. My Favorite Personal Finance Resource:

CFPB

  1. My best advice:
    1. For someone starting the journey to financial wellness:

Have clarity on your goals by working with a financial coach. Take the actions you set yourself and everything is possible.

  1. For a new professional entering this field:

 This is an amazing field for people who want to help make a difference in someone’s life by supporting them to know they can accomplish the financial goals they set for themselves.

 

Follow Vivian at:

focusonucoach.com

www.facebook.com/FocusOnUCoach

www.linkedin.com/in/vivianpaduafinancialcoach

https://twitter.com/FocusOnUCoach

July 13, 2018

Interview with Vivian Padua, AFC®, FFC® and AFCPE® Member

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Accept the Challenge: Support Students Who are Passionate about Personal Finance https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/accept-the-challenge-support-students-who-are-passionate-about-personal-finance/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/accept-the-challenge-support-students-who-are-passionate-about-personal-finance/#respond Mon, 09 Jul 2018 16:47:18 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2820 Together we can make a difference today for students who will make a difference tomorrow. https://www.afcpe.org/support Long-time AFCPE Member, Ryan Ritter, AFC®, invites you to accept the challenge! Accept the Challenge! Support AFCPE Students Help us meet our goal of $10K in just 10 days. The more you help, the more Ryan will give! Ryan will generously match donations up […]

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Together we can make a difference today for students who will make a difference tomorrow.

https://www.afcpe.org/support

Long-time AFCPE Member, Ryan Ritter, AFC®, invites you to accept the challenge!

Help us meet our goal of $10K in just 10 days.
The more you help, the more Ryan will give!

Ryan will generously match donations up to the first $10,000 donated. 

  • 25% of the first $4,000
  • 50% of the next $4,000
  • And dollar for dollar of the remaining $2,000

Your support – no matter how large or small – helps give students with a passion for personal finance, access to new information and a strong network. This is an opportunity that enhances their professional development and opens doors to career opportunities upon graduation.

Our goal is to reach $10K by Thursday, July 19, 2018!


Who Inspired You in Your Career?
Make a Donation in their Honor or Memory

We have a new feature on our donation form that allows you to make a tribute donation. Tell us who inspired you and why and we will send a personalized email or thank you card on your behalf.


Pay it Forward.
4 easy ways YOU can encourage others to accept this important challenge!

  1. Copy and paste the language below and share it on your preferred social media channel: 

    I just accepted the challenge! Will you? Donate to #AFCPE18 Student Scholarships. Together we can make a difference today for students who will make a difference tomorrow: https://www.afcpe.org/support #SupportAFCPEStudents

  2. Share your own testimonial via social media and encourage others to accept the challenge and make a donation to support AFCPE students:

    I donated to the AFCPE Symposium Student scholarship challenge in honor of [name of person] who [your why]. I challenge you to support our students: https://www.afcpe.org/support #SupportAFCPEStudents
     
  3. Let us do the work! Send an email to aabraham@afcpe.org with a note on who you are honoring and we will social share on your behalf. 
     
  4. Share your testimonials in the comments section below.

It is because of your generosity, leadership and support today, that our students will continue to create impact in the financial well-being of others tomorrow!

Donate today! https://www.afcpe.org/support

July 09, 2018

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#FridayFollow – Developing Critical Cross-Cultural Skills https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-developing-critical-cross-cultural-skills/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-developing-critical-cross-cultural-skills/#respond Fri, 06 Jul 2018 14:06:21 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2869 We are proud to recognize Biola University as our newest AFCPE® Approved Education Program! AFCPE: What inspired you to work in the field of financial planning and education? Shane: The stock market captured my attention at a young age, and I just had to learn more. As I read and attended seminars, I was noticed and given an opportunity to teach seminars […]

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We are proud to recognize Biola University as our newest AFCPE® Approved Education Program!

AFCPE: What inspired you to work in the field of financial planning and education?

 Shane: The stock market captured my attention at a young age, and I just had to learn more. As I read and attended seminars, I was noticed and given an opportunity to teach seminars on teen investing when I was just 16 years old. I was even invited to speak to my high school teacher’s investing club one year later, which was quite intimidating as a 17-year-old! This launched me into the field of financial analysis and education. Since then I have worked as a researcher for investment firms for 10 years, earned a CFA and CAIA charter, completed a masters in mathematical finance, and I am currently a PhD candidate for personal financial planning at Kansas State University.

AFCPE: Wow that is quite the journey! Tell us a little about Biola University’s Financial Planning Program. What makes your program unique?

Shane: The Crowell School of Business is home to a CFP-board certified personal financial planning business concentration and minor. The program consists of six classes related to managing money, including topics in investments, retirement planning, budgeting, estate planning and education planning. The program allows you to sit for the CFP exam upon completion of the six classes, which gives students a powerful advantage over other job seekers.

This program is unique because every class is highly integrated with Biblical principles so that graduates of our program are well equipped to serve clients who have a Biblical worldview. Our program, having completed its first year, has built an advisory council of top financial planning firms in the area and will have mentorship opportunities, a “Meet the Firms” day every Fall, and mock planning sessions with actual advisors during the Capstone class.

AFCPE: This year, Biola University become an AFCPE Approved Education Program. What inspired you to bring this program to your university?

Shane: One of the learning objectives for our financial planning program is to serve both low-income and under-served populations with financial services. When I attended the AFCPE conference last year, I realized that the AFC® was the missing link between the CFP curriculum and non-wealthy households.  I went to school in an inner-city area and have a passion to help bring adequate financial help to those who are being overlooked. I want my students to get the same passion as I have, and also develop critical cross-cultural communication skills.

AFCPE: At AFCPE we know firsthand the impact and value of an AFC. In your words, what is the value of the AFC to this field and to students pursuing the certification?

 Shane: The AFC is a credential that will enhance just about any career that involves service to others. Whether a student becomes an advisor, counselor, teacher, therapist, pastor, or non-profit worker, knowing how to skillfully address financial issues gets to the root of a basic human need that also is highly connected to their hearts. Any kind of service that addresses both physical and heart-related needs is a great human service.

 

Shane answers the Friday 5

My Why:

I love helping people with money-related issues.

My Favorite Quote:

“Big Gulps, huh? Well, I’ll see you later.” (Dumb and Dumber)

My Hero:

George Muller.

My Favorite Personal Finance Resource:

Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn.

My best advice:

-For someone starting the journey to financial wellness:

If you need to spend less money, do not start by trying to control an unknowable future through “budgeting,” instead, focus on simply “tracking” a known past, and shining a bright light on your financial behavior to others and yourself, and you will begin to naturally change your habits.

-For a new professional entering this field:

Read financial news less and good classical literature more.

Shane isn’t on any social media platforms yet,  but will be in the next few months. Stay tuned! If you’d like to connect with him, leave a message in the comments below.

July 06, 2018

Interview with Shane Enete 2018 AFCPE® Member & Assistant Professor of Finance at Biola University

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Listening Between the Lines https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/listening-between-the-lines/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/listening-between-the-lines/#respond Fri, 29 Jun 2018 14:12:08 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2879 Brandy Baxter is a 2011 FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship recipient and financial coach. As a public speaker and owner of her own business Living Abundantly, she coaches and educates people on a variety of money matters, from budgeting to credit and debt management. In her work, she is truly setting the standard. AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?   […]

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Brandy Baxter is a 2011 FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship recipient and financial coach. As a public speaker and owner of her own business Living Abundantly, she coaches and educates people on a variety of money matters, from budgeting to credit and debt management. In her work, she is truly setting the standard.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?  

Brandy: When my husband and I married, we needed someone to help us understand our finances as a couple.  We met people who wanted to sell us products, but we wanted to be educated.  So, I researched. I learned and tried true principles to eliminate consumer debt.  While we were eliminating over $75K in debt, I saw the principles working and started telling others what we were doing.  Soon, I realized most people simply wanted to be educated on the basics and not sold products right away.  So, I began looking for a program that would teach me how to help people understand their money. 

While a student at Golden Gate University, I took a class taught by Saundra Davis, Sage Financial Solutions and it changed my life.  I learned about Behavioral Finance and how money attitudes are the root of money choices. I knew that was the path I wanted to be on – helping people understand their relationship with money and how factors like family, environment, and exposure play a role in our decision-making process. 

At the time, I was a military spouse and my best friend told me about the AFCPE/FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship.  I applied, was accepted, and I’ve been on this journey ever since.

 

AFCPE: As an Air Force veteran, what drives you to stay connected to the military? 

Brandy: The military feels like the largest fraternal organization in the country.  I learned so much about serving others while in the military that it has become part of my DNA.  I stay connected with the military community because of the instant camaraderie.  There’s a feeling of acceptance in the military community that is hard to find anywhere else.  The military has opened so many doors of opportunity for me, I feel I have a responsibility to continue giving back to the community that has given and continues to give so much to me.

 

AFCPE: What impact has the AFC® and the FFC® training made towards your work and approach with clients? 

Brandy: The AFC® has given me the confidence to let my clients know I’m serious about my profession.  Once I explain to them the process of earning the AFC, I remind them I have the education, experience and ethics to provide them the best service I can.  I then explain my fiduciary responsibility to act in their best interest and it gives them peace of mind that I’m not a scam artist or any other type of unsavory individual. 

The FFC® training has taken my coaching to the next level.  Now I’m more attentive to what my client is not saying.  This allows me to “listen between the lines” during the coaching session and create a space where clients feel their power over their situation.  The FFC training has made me more respectful of silence during sessions because I realize that is often when the client is experiencing a collision between what they are saying aloud and what they really believe.

 

AFCPE: What an important skill to master! We really admire your passion and how you are utilizing both designations. What’s next? What’s got you most excited? 

Brandy: Wow!  I’ve always got something going on! Recently I was asked to speak at an event, spotlighting veterans in poverty.  While researching for this event, I learned women veterans have higher rates of poverty than males and minority women veterans are even more susceptible due to a compounding of various socio-economic factors.  This saddened me and I now feel compelled to use whatever platform available to me to raise awareness about women who have served our country and now cannot afford to take care of their families.  You can expect to hear more from me on this subject. 

I also co-founded a group called BlackGirlFinMagic, for women of color who are personal financial educators or business owners.  Our focus is to encourage and engage women who look like us and who share our same passion for personal finance.  We promote collaboration and community and we provide a safe space for those who feel they are part of a minority; as women and as women of color.  I’m excited to see the group grow and we’ll be launching a blog series this summer where we’ll spotlight women from our group. 

 

Brandy answers the Friday 5:

 

1.      My Why: I want to equip people to live abundantly.

2.      My Favorite Quote: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi

3.      My Hero: My daughters. They inspire me to leave a legacy that their children can be proud of.

      4.      My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Google…I can find anything I need from spreadsheets and calculators to definitions and discounts. 

5.      My best advice:    

  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-ness: “I’m not here to judge you, I’m here to journey with you.” 
  • For a new professional entering this field:
    “You have to believe in yourself and then others will too.”

Follow Brandy at:

Time2LiveAbundantly.com

Linkedin.com/in/BrandyBaxter

Facebook.com/2LiveAbundantly

Twitter.com/2LiveAbundantly

BlackGirlFinMagic.com

June 29, 2018

Interview with Brandy Baxter, AFC®, AFCPE® Member, and FFC® Candidate

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#Friday Follow – Making Financial Education a Requirement https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-making-financial-education-a-requirement/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-making-financial-education-a-requirement/#respond Fri, 22 Jun 2018 14:17:44 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2889 Ann House is the Director of the Personal Money Management Center (PMMC) at The University of Utah. She provides financial education and services for students to obtain an education with as little debt as possible. Her goal is to give them the appropriate tools while achieving lifelong, successful financial outcomes. AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field? Ann: I’m […]

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Ann House is the Director of the Personal Money Management Center (PMMC) at The University of Utah. She provides financial education and services for students to obtain an education with as little debt as possible. Her goal is to give them the appropriate tools while achieving lifelong, successful financial outcomes.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?

Ann: I’m old enough to remember Ralph Nader and his work around car safety and starting Consumer Reports. He was the first consumer advocate that I knew about. The world is becoming less consumer-friendly and finances are increasingly more complex so I wanted to assist consumers in making better decisions. Investing in one’s future and being free from overwhelming debt allows one to have choices and independence. It is rewarding that this is something I can help individuals and families obtain.  

AFCPE: You started an award-winning Personal Money Management Center at the University of Utah, tell us about your center and the advice you give to someone who is in the process of implementing a SMMC at their university?

Ann: I joined the University of Utah to build a student money management center. There were only a few other SMMCs at the time – for instance, Paul Goebel at University of North Texas. We checked out their work and I set out determining what we needed at our University. I started with a survey and we surveyed over 1,000 students and asked them what they wanted to learn. I asked what issues are stressing them out and if they would use a money management center if there was one.

Overwhelmingly, students said they want to learn more about money management and to have someone to help them with financial decisions. They wanted to learn about paying tuition for each semester, learn about credit, and to learn about budgeting, and they were willing to pay for it! I was then able to get $3/student added to student fees to support a center. I knew I needed on-going funding to be sustainable. I say “come get your $3 worth every single semester!”

Our center offers luncheons with guest speakers, one-on-one counseling, events such as tax preparation and “U Saves Week.” I know that our success as a resource center is based on three things: 1) institutional support, 2) financial stability and 3) assessments that show our model is working or we are changing to meet students’ needs.  

AFCPE: We love your passion and innovation! What’s next? What’s got you most excited?

Ann: University of Utah just obtained an endorsement from AFCPE® to be an approved AFC® University. This means that our school can teach the necessary courses and offer the hours required for our students to obtain an accreditation in financial counseling and/or coaching. I will be creating curriculum and teaching. I am looking forward to offering this career path in the Department of Family & Consumer Studies.

Ann answers the Friday 5:

  1. My Why: When I look at all the troubles in the world, I feel hopeless that I can make big changes. But I can make a difference in my community. So, I teach, I council, and I sit on boards of institutions and I see that I can change the lives of those around me for the better.
  2. My Favorite Quote: Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
  3. My Hero: Esther Peterson, a Utah native. She worked for four Presidents on behalf of consumers all while raising a family. Google her. She is a fascinating and inspiring woman.
  1. My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: https://powerpay.org/
  1. My best advice:                                                                         
    1. For someone starting the journey to financial well-ness:

Finance education is not an elective in life. The sooner you learn to manage money – earn, spend, save & invest – the sooner you will obtain lifelong financial well-being.  

  1. For a new professional entering this field:

Keep up on your knowledge, your credentials, your skills and experiences in personal finances. The financial world is always changing, and it is complicated. You need to be that expert in order to help individuals and families, and you need to know other resources in your community to make referrals to in areas that are not in your field. You are needed, so make yourself known as that person that can use your help   

Follow Ann at:

Website: https://personal-money-management.utah.edu/resources/index.php

Facebook: Personal Money Management Center University of Utah

June 22, 2018
Interview with Ann House, AFC® and AFCPE® Member.

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#FridayFollow – “The Pursuit of Happyness” https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-the-pursuit-of-happyness/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-the-pursuit-of-happyness/#respond Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:22:29 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2895 Stephen Newland is an AFC® in the Atlanta, GA area with a passion for helping people set and achieve their financial goals. He started volunteering as a money coach in 2010 and now works full time running the financial education programs at churches in Buckhead & Alpharetta, Georgia. AFCPE: When people ask what you do, how do you respond? Stephen: My tagline is […]

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Stephen Newland is an AFC® in the Atlanta, GA area with a passion for helping people set and achieve their financial goals. He started volunteering as a money coach in 2010 and now works full time running the financial education programs at churches in Buckhead & Alpharetta, Georgia.

AFCPE: When people ask what you do, how do you respond?

Stephen: My tagline is “It’s hard to stay on track with money. We’ll help make it easier”. After that I usually say that I help people who want to create a budget, work on paying down debt or build savings.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?

Stephen: My own personal story. I made a lot of financial mistakes because I didn’t know better. I came out of college with $55,000 in student and consumer debt making $42,000 a year. I thought it’d take me forever to pay that off. As I started studying personal finance and applying that to my own life I realized I didn’t need to be saddled with debt for 10, 15, 20 years. I paid off my debt in four years and haven’t looked back. I strive to help someone every day to remove some of that same stress that I felt about money.

AFCPE: Tell us about your podcast, “Find Your Money Path”.

Stephen: Twice a week, I try to put a quick thought on the audience’s mind just to challenge them or get them thinking about money through a different lens. I interview people in other industries (like insurance, estate planning, even home organizers) and provide motivation and practical tips on how to save money.  I focus a lot on the emotional and mindset side of money.

AFCPE: Amazing! We love your creativity and innovation! What’s up next for you? What has you excited?

Stephen: Thanks so much – that truly means a lot! Currently, I’ve been focusing on working with individual clients, but I am really getting excited about approaching small businesses about ways that they can help their employees through financial counseling. It’s such a worry and distraction to workers all over America and I truly believe financial counseling is the answer!  Also, there’s an awesome app out there called Olivia AI. It helps its users understand their spending patterns and even suggests ways for them to save money on things like groceries by analyzing when someone grocery shops then checking out sales at stores near where the user shops and lives. It’s pretty awesome!

 

Stephen Answers the Friday 5:

  1. My Why: So, few people seem to really feel confident about money and making financial decisions.  It breaks my heart to see people who continue to work in their 70’s and 80’s when they don’t want to, but it’s out of necessity.  I want to help my generation drastically reduce the % of people who have to do that.  
  2. My Favorite Quote: “When people can’t do something themselves, they want to tell you, you can’t do itYou want somethinggo get it. Period” from the Pursuit of Happyness (The movie)
  1. My Hero: My grandpa. He always led by action and was a man of few words.
  1. My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Ray Linder’s “money personalities”. It’s been so eye opening when this concept is introduced!
  1. My best advice:
  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-ness: Don’t give up after a month or two.  It gets hard but – push through it. There are so many others here to support you on your journey when you feel stuck or feel like you are swimming upstream against culture/family/friends. You’ve got this!
     
  • For a new professional entering this field: If you have a passion for personal finance and love helping people I can’t think of a more rewarding way to spend a career. There’s so much need out there for you to use your passion and you just never know how by you saying “yes” to this how you’ll change someone’s life. 

 

Follow Stephen at: 

Search “Find Your Money Path Show” on iTunes or Google Play. I’m also on YouTube under the same name.  If you’d like to be a guest on the show, please reach out! You can e-mail at contact@findyourmoneypath.com

June 15, 2018

Interview with Stephen Newland, AFC® and AFCPE ® Member

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#Friday Follow – Money: It’s not about the numbers. https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-money-its-not-about-the-numbers/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/friday-follow-money-its-not-about-the-numbers/#respond Fri, 08 Jun 2018 14:26:35 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2901 Interview with Jessica Moorhouse, CFC™ Jessica Moorhouse is a money expert, Certified Financial Counselor (CFC) & podcaster. Jessica talks to us about her passion, the ups and downs of being self-employed and her experience hosting the Mo’ Money Podcast. AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field? Jessica: My passion for personal finance, because money isn’t about the numbers, it’s about […]

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Interview with Jessica Moorhouse, CFC™

Jessica Moorhouse is a money expert, Certified Financial Counselor (CFC) & podcaster. Jessica talks to us about her passion, the ups and downs of being self-employed and her experience hosting the Mo’ Money Podcast.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?

Jessica: My passion for personal finance, because money isn’t about the numbers, it’s about freedom, choice & opportunity.

AFCPE: Tell us about being self-employed and the Mo’ Money Podcast.

Jessica: Being self-employed certainly has its ups and downs. The first year was tough, but year two (which I’m currently in) has been amazing! In year 1, it’s all about really defining your business and learning the best income streams to pursue. For year 2, it’s about focusing on those parts of your business that earn the most and bring you the most joy. And one of those parts of my business is my podcast called the Mo’ Money Podcast.

How lucky am I that I get to chat with celebrities (like HGTV’s Scott McGillivray), experts (like The Globe & Mail’s Rob Carrick), and authors (like Preet Banerjee, Bruce Sellery, Chris Gillebeau) and earn an income from it!

But really, the best part about being self-employed is that I get to dedicate myself full-time to what I believe is my calling. My calling is to help others take control of their lives by taking control of their money. So many others before me inspired me to live the life I wanted by managing my money the right way, and now I want to help others do the same.

AFCPE: We love your mission and your passion! What’s next up? What’s got you most excited?

Jessica: I’m going to continue with my podcast, making it bigger and better. I also am focused on doing more public speaking and in-person workshops. Last but not least, I hope to get the wheels in motion to publish my first book.

Jessica answers the Friday 5:

1.     My Why: Helping others achieve financial security so they can live their ideal life.

2.     My Favorite Quote: “The most effective way to do it, is to do it.” – Amelia Earhart

3.     My Hero (who inspires you): My mom. She was my family’s money manager and instilled some great values in me growing up. It’s because of her that I’ve always known the value of a dollar, that hard work is important, and why budgeting is vital.

4.     My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Millionaire Teacher by Andrew Hallam. It’s by far my favorite book. It talks about frugality, investing, and financial independence in a way that is real but also inspiring.

5.     My best advice:

  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-ness: There are 4 key things you need to start doing ASAP. 
  1. Make a budget/spending plan for yourself.
  2. Start tracking your spending monthly.
  3. Track your net worth monthly.
  4. Review everything once a month.

These are the cornerstone things you need to do to get clarity with your finances and set up a solid financial foundation for yourself.

  • For a new professional entering this field: Never forget who you serve. Yes, you’re in business and you want to earn an income, but it’s always important to remember why you got into this business in the first place – to help people in need so they can eventually help themselves. This will make it easier to sign on new clients and understand where clients are coming from. It’s also important to remember that although you’re comfortable talking about money, most people aren’t. Ease in to the conversation and do more listening than talking.

Follow Jessica at:

https://twitter.com/jessi_moorhouse

https://www.instagram.com/jessicaimoorhouse/

https://www.facebook.com/jessicaimoorhouse/

https://www.youtube.com/c/jessicamoorhouse1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaibowman/

June 08, 2018

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#FridayFollow – Helping people climb out from under the rock of fear https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-helping-people-climb-out-from-under-the-rock-of-fear/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-helping-people-climb-out-from-under-the-rock-of-fear/#respond Fri, 01 Jun 2018 14:28:41 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2906 Adrian Klenz, AFC® is a financial counselor, educator and certified housing counselor. He’s also one of AFCPE’s AFC® Review Course instructors. When people ask what he does, he usually has to explain how his work differs from a financial advisor or a financial planner. Adrian: Usually people hear the word “financial” and think investment and retirement planning. I explain to them that I […]

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Adrian Klenz, AFC® is a financial counselor, educator and certified housing counselor. He’s also one of AFCPE’s AFC® Review Course instructors. When people ask what he does, he usually has to explain how his work differs from a financial advisor or a financial planner. 

Adrian: Usually people hear the word “financial” and think investment and retirement planning. I explain to them that I focus more on financial behaviors. 

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter the personal finance field?

 Unemployment! I was laid off at the height of the “great recession” and I answered a job ad for an Americorps position for a local community action agency (Western Dairyland). They wanted me to create a financial literacy program. I had been working for a decade in the mental health field so it was quite a transition. Fortunately, I have been able to use my mental health experience to help clients make changes to financial behaviors. I taught for a time at UW-Eau Claire teaching students how to be financial mentors. Then I began teaching for several national organizations. In 2015 I started my own business providing financial counseling, housing counseling and financial education. 

AFCPE: Tell us how you are “meeting people where they are.”

I find that sharing my own trouble with money from my younger days helps put people at ease. They realize that I am not going to judge them because I have experienced many of the same issues they are facing. That has helped me meet people where they are. 

AFCPE: What’s on the horizon? What’s got you most excited in your work?

I have been thinking a lot about how to stay “relevant.”  It is important not to be complacent. I am contemplating getting my certification as a financial coach (FFC®). I have some experience with coaching but I am considering taking that to the next level. I am exploring certification in financial therapy. Given my mental health background, that might be enjoyable. I am also working on a book about my experiences with money and how I was able to climb out of that hole. Since I teach all over the country I get to chat with non-profit professionals everywhere and that helps me keep my finger on the pulse. 

Adrian answers the Friday 5:

My Why: Helping people climb out from under the rock of fear. Money issues create a significant amount of stress and emotional anguish. I lived that. So, helping people take control of their money issues and helping them find peace is my why. 

My Favorite Quote: “I have often been adrift but I have always remained afloat.”

My Hero (who inspires you): My biggest historical hero is Robert Kennedy. In the financial realm, I really admire Elizabeth Warren.

My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: I have several Google alerts set for topics like “financial literacy, financial counseling, financial coaching, financial capability, and budgeting.” I get daily notices from all over the internet with many wonderful articles. I usually find this helpful. 

My best advice: Try to keep things in perspective. Nothing is as good or bad as it seems. We often get so worked up that we lose perspective and focus. 

  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-ness: Knowledge is power. Most clients don’t know how much they owe, who they owe money to, or have never looked at their credit report. They have no idea how much money they spend. I tell clients they need to get out of the dark and into the light, so I have them track spending and get their credit reports. Once they know how much they are spending and once they have a clear picture of their debts, a lot of the fear of the unknown melts away. That new perspective makes it easier to start climbing out of the hole they are in. 
     
  • For a new professional entering this field: Check your judgments. We all have different values and we have to make sure we are not pushing our beliefs and our values on our clients. That is the quickest way to scare clients off. You can’t build trust if you are making a client feel judged. 

Follow me: Facebook under Klenz Financial Counseling or at www.klenzfinancialcounseling.com

June 01, 2018
Interview with Adrian Klenz, AFC®, AFCPE® Member

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#FridayFollow – The Truth about Wealth Will Set You Free https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-the-truth-about-wealth-will-set-you-free/ https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/fridayfollow-the-truth-about-wealth-will-set-you-free/#respond Fri, 25 May 2018 14:30:54 +0000 https://www.afcpe.org/?p=2911 Deborah Owens is the Founder and CEO of WealthyU, a financial wellness company. She is on a mission to close the wealth gap that exists for women and minorities by providing a curriculum, coaching, accountability and support. AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field? Deborah: I believe the wealth gap is a knowledge in execution gap. After spending my career […]

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Deborah Owens is the Founder and CEO of WealthyU, a financial wellness company. She is on a mission to close the wealth gap that exists for women and minorities by providing a curriculum, coaching, accountability and support.

 

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?

 

Deborah: I believe the wealth gap is a knowledge in execution gap. After spending my career and financial services I decided to focus on helping women and minorities gain access to the financial acumen needed make wise financial decisions. Since leaving the industry I have written four critically acclaimed books on personal finance and then recognize that information alone does not address the investment confidence gap that exists.

 

AFCPE: Tell us about your WealthyU program and how you are not only bridging gaps, but really meeting people where they are.

 

Deborah: Our secret sauce is our curriculum which is derived from our published works. Our storytelling concepts provide context and the demystifies technical jargon used in the financial markets that causes people to feel shame because they feel ignorant because they feel they should know how to invest.

 

AFCPE: We love your creativity and innovation – from your business model to your public speaking? What’s next up? What’s got you most excited? 

 

Deborah: We are developing the WealthyU App & Financial Wealth Building Platform to provide Curriculum, Coaching, Accountability and Support

 

Deborah Answers our Friday 5

 

  1. My Why: My why is my mother because of her experiences with financial hardship when she separated from my father after 33 years of marriage.

 

  1. My Favorite Quote: “Don’t let what you want today, prevent you from achieving what you want most.”

 

  1. My Hero (who inspires you): Oprah Winfrey and Madame C.J. Walker

 

  1. My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Jim Cramer, CNBC

 

  1. My best advice:

 

  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-ness: Create a visual representation of what you want your life to reflect 10 years from now.
  • For a new professional entering this field: Listen more. Talk Less.

 

 

Follow me at (social media, website, etc.):

 

Website: https://deborahowens.com/

Twitter: @deborahowens 

Facebook; DeborahOwensPage

May 25, 2018

Interview with Deborah Owens, “America’s Wealth Coach”, AFCPE® Member, and FFC® Candidate

The post #FridayFollow – The Truth about Wealth Will Set You Free appeared first on AFCPE.

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