In this episode, A.B. Ridgeway dives into the popular FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early), challenging the idea of early retirement from a Christian perspective. He reflects on biblical teachings that highlight the importance of work as a form of service and fulfillment, not just a means to an end. He also shares cautionary tales about the emotional toll of retirement when it lacks purpose. Ridgeway provides practical tips for planning retirement with intention and continuing to live with purpose through it.

Key Takeaways:

1. Work is a Gift from God: According to Ecclesiastes 3:12-13, joy in work is a gift from God. Christians are called to view work as meaningful, not something to escape from, but as a way to contribute to the world.
2. Retirement Despair is Real: Many retirees face depression when they retire without a sense of purpose. It’s essential to retire to something, not just from something, and stay engaged in meaningful activities post-retirement.
3. Start Living Your Retirement Goals Now: Don’t wait until retirement to pursue your passions. Begin incorporating activities into your life now to ensure they bring fulfillment when the time comes.

Quotes:

1. "Work is not supposed to be hard. It's something we do with pleasure and love." — A.B. Ridgeway on finding joy in work and serving God through our daily efforts.
2. "Retirement despair is real. After the noise of work calms down, it's just you. What will you do?" — A.B. Ridgeway on the emotional challenges faced by many retirees.
3. "You’ll always be working as God's stewards. It's not about escaping work but living with purpose." — A reminder that, as Christians, we are called to serve, even beyond our traditional working years.

Tune in for more insights on how Christians should approach retirement with faith and purpose!

💵Sign up for a Christian Finance Consultation and create your Financial Plan Today!

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📖Free E-Book- 4 Pillars to Christian Investing: https://mailchi.mp/abrwealthmanagement/christianinvesting

🏠 Visit our Website: https://www.abrwealthmanagement.com

*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.

In this episode of Financial Advisors Say The Darndest Things, A.B. Ridgeway breaks down the crucial question: When is the right time to hire a financial advisor? Drawing from a conversation with a doctor calling into Dave Ramsey’s show, the episode explores the tension between needing financial guidance and the fear of losing control over your wealth. A.B. and Dave Ramsey share essential insights on balancing trust, knowledge, and control in your financial life.

3 Key Takeaways

1. The Right Time to Hire a Financial Advisor is Early: A.B. Ridgeway emphasizes that financial planning should ideally start early, even during life events like residency, marriage, or starting a family—not just after earning significant income.
2. Financial Advisors Should Teach, Not Take Over: Both A.B. and Dave stress that an advisor’s role is to educate, not control. A great advisor offers options and guidance, ensuring the client remains in charge of their financial decisions.
3. Trust the Process, Not Just the Person: It’s normal to feel hesitant about hiring an advisor, especially with significant wealth. Dave advises clients to work only with advisors who have a “heart of a teacher,” emphasizing education over sales. A.B. adds that understanding how products fit into a broader financial plan is more important than mastering every technical detail.

3 Memorable Quotes

1. “I’m not here to tell you what to think. I am here to teach you how to think.” — A.B. Ridgeway on the role of a financial advisor.
2. “The rule is: you don’t work with a financial advisor who doesn’t have the heart of a teacher.” — Dave Ramsey on the qualities to look for in an advisor.
3. “Over-analysis causes paralysis. Make the best decision with the information you have.” — A.B. Ridgeway’s advice on balancing knowledge and action in financial planning.

Final Thoughts: This episode encourages listeners to take a proactive approach to financial planning. Whether you're early in your career or managing newfound wealth, finding the right advisor—one who educates and empowers—is essential. Remember, it’s not about handing over control but equipping yourself to make better financial decisions.

Tune in to learn more about aligning your financial decisions with your values and making informed choices with confidence!

💵Sign up for a Christian Finance Consultation and create your Financial Plan Today!

https://calendly.com/abridgewaywm/consultation

📖Free E-Book- 4 Pillars to Christian Investing: https://mailchi.mp/abrwealthmanagement/christianinvesting

🏠 Visit our Website: https://www.abrwealthmanagement.com

*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.

Video/Audio Credit: Ramsey Solutions

In this episode, A.B. Ridgeway breaks down the often-confusing term "financial advisor," explaining how it serves as an umbrella for various financial professionals. He explores the differences between financial planners, brokers, and Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs). Listeners will learn about the significance of professional credentials and the importance of selecting the right advisor for their unique financial needs.

3 Key Takeaways

1. "Financial Advisor" is a Broad Term:
   • The title can refer to various professionals, such as stockbrokers, financial planners, and RIAs, each serving different purposes.
2. Credentials Matter—but Research is Key:
   • Not all designations hold equal value. Certifications like CFP (Certified Financial Planner) and CPWA (Certified Private Wealth Advisor) indicate higher standards, but it’s crucial to understand what each credential represents.
3. Holistic Financial Planning Provides Greater Value:
   • Unlike brokers who focus solely on investments, financial planners and RIAs take a comprehensive approach, covering everything from wealth transfer to retirement planning and tax strategies.

3 Memorable Quotes

1. “A financial advisor is like an umbrella term. A lot of people like to call themselves financial advisors, and that just may not be true.”
   • A.B. Ridgeway highlights the importance of discernment when choosing a financial professional.
2. “Just because someone has letters behind their name doesn’t mean that credential really means anything.”
   • A reminder to look beyond titles and dig deeper into what those credentials actually entail.
3. “The more money you have, the more strategies you need to implement—and you need someone to help you implement them.”
   • Ridgeway emphasizes the value of strategic financial planning, especially for high-net-worth individuals.

This episode offers valuable insights into understanding financial advisors' roles and helps listeners make informed decisions when seeking professional guidance. Whether you're managing debt, planning for retirement, or building wealth, knowing the right type of advisor to work with is essential.

💵Sign up for a Christian Finance Consultation and create your Financial Plan Today!

https://calendly.com/abridgewaywm/consultation

📖Free E-Book- 4 Pillars to Christian Investing: https://mailchi.mp/abrwealthmanagement/christianinvesting

🏠 Visit our Website: https://www.abrwealthmanagement.com

*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.

Video/Audio Credit: Charles Schwab