Be Happily Debt Free

Brian Fricke, CFP®Debt, Investing

The single biggest obstacle to building and keeping wealth is debt. That’s right—debt! If you’re paying an increasing amount each month to pay off loans or credit cards, you are in good company. The average American carries an estimated $10,000 in credit card debt. Regardless of your circumstances, try to imagine having no credit card, car or mortgage payments. I … Read More

Incredible Retirement Tip: Financial Media Is Not Your Friend

Brian Fricke, CFP®Financial Planning, Mortgages

When I look at the offerings of the financial media today— radio, TV, print or online—I always feel as if I’m somehow inferior because I’m not on top of the latest news about investing. I can only imagine how guilty people who aren’t financial professionals must feel—all because of the business press! Financial journalists advocate becoming an “expert” on all … Read More

Avoid Dave Ramsey’s Mutual Fund Advice

Brian Fricke, CFP®Mutual Fund

The following video covers the three reasons why I am not a big fan of Dave Ramsey’s advice on mutual fund diversification. While I disagree on this topic, I strongly agree with Dave’s programs for helping you manage your budget and become debt free. Overview 1) Dave says put money equally into a growth fund, aggressive growth fund, growth and income fund and an international … Read More

Why Most People Fail at Setting Meaningful Retirement Goals

Brian Fricke, CFP®Retirement Planning

The single biggest mistake people make when they set goals is that their goals are too vague. Before you can tackle the necessary decisions related to retirement, including investments, taxes, insurance, etc., you must identify your values and then determine your goals and what you want to accomplish over your lifetime. The fun comes when you accomplish your goals and you … Read More