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!

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*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!

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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.

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!

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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.

Video/Audio Credit: Charles Schwab

In this episode, A.B. Ridgeway dives deep into the truth behind cash back credit cards. While credit card rewards seem enticing, they may actually lead to hidden losses when fees outweigh the benefits. A.B. provides actionable advice on when to use credit cards versus debit cards, and how to avoid unnecessary costs for convenience.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Cash Back Isn't Free Money
   • Cash back is essentially a discount, not extra income. You could still be paying more through hidden processing fees.
2. Processing Fees Eat into Rewards
   • If a purchase involves a 2.49% processing fee but only earns 1% cash back, you are losing 1.49% of your money.
3. Use Credit Cards Strategically
   • Credit cards offer fraud protection, but they shouldn’t be used for every purchase. Large or recurring payments are often better handled through a debit account to avoid fees.

3 Memorable Quotes

1. “Cash back is nothing but a fancy coupon—just paying a little less.”
2. “Why pay a couple hundred extra dollars to get $150 back of your own money that you didn’t need to spend in the first place?”
3. “We are paying for convenience—how much is that convenience worth to you?”

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💵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, A.B. Ridgeway dives into the lack of financial literacy education in the U.S. and its consequences. He reflects on how credit cards are introduced to students before they learn the basics of budgeting, saving, or understanding interest. A.B. explores practical steps to reverse this trend and empower listeners to become more financially literate through informed choices and better saving habits.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Lack of Early Financial Education is Costly
   • Most people enter adulthood without essential financial skills. This contributes to debt accumulation, with Americans now holding over $1 trillion in credit card debt.
2. Inflation Erodes Purchasing Power
   • Savings accounts with low interest rates lose value over time when inflation rises faster. You must invest or seek better returns to avoid losing purchasing power.
3. Financial Literacy Requires Continuous Learning
   • Financial knowledge isn't static. The ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is essential for adapting to changing economic conditions and avoiding costly mistakes.

3 Memorable Quotes

1. “We were introduced to credit cards before we were introduced to savings accounts. And that is a scary thing.” – A.B. Ridgeway on the dangers of early exposure to debt without financial education.
2. “Illiteracy is no longer the inability to read and write, but the inability to learn, unlearn, and relearn.” – A.B. Ridgeway on the importance of continuous education in personal finance.
3. “You cannot save yourself from inflation.” – A reminder that saving alone won't protect against the loss of purchasing power due to inflation.

Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of how financial literacy can empower you and future generations to make smarter financial decisions.

💵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: VOX

In this episode of Financial Advisors Say The Darndest Things, A.B. Ridgeway breaks down the essential steps for deciding if hiring a financial advisor is the right move. He discusses key life changes—like having a baby, marriage, or retirement—when financial advice may be most beneficial.

You'll learn about different types of advisors and when to hire one: proactively before a major decision or reactively after. A.B. also explains various payment structures, including hourly rates, flat fees, and assets under management (AUM), weighing the pros and cons of each. With practical insights, this episode will help you understand how to get the best value from your advisor and avoid costly mistakes.

Whether you’re thinking about rolling over your 401k, planning for home improvements, or just want to strategize better for the future, this episode equips you with the tools and knowledge to confidently decide if and when to engage a financial advisor.

Key Takeaways

1. Timing Matters: Hire Advisors Proactively
   • It’s better to hire a financial advisor before making big financial decisions (like buying a house or vehicle) to avoid costly mistakes and lock in better rates. Reactive help might not fix pre-existing issues.
2. Flexible Fee Structures to Fit Your Needs
   • Financial advisors offer various pricing models: hourly fees, flat fees, and asset-based fees (AUM). Each has pros and cons, so it’s essential to find the one that matches your situation and budget.
3. Financial Advisors as Strategy Experts
   • A good financial advisor can provide strategies beyond traditional savings, such as maximizing investments or minimizing tax liabilities through careful planning.

Memorable Quotes

1. "Having a financial advisor to guide you through different strategies is actually a good idea."
2. "I think you should hire them before, because if you hire them after, everything is going to be reactive instead of proactive."
3. "When your portfolio does well, your fees go up—but so does your wealth. You keep 99%, and your advisor gets 1-2%."

💵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.

Audio/Video Credits: Today Show

In this rare part two episode, A.B. Ridgeway revisits a compelling story about a customer’s struggle with removing an ex from a joint account, resulting in a large sum being withdrawn without authorization. Through the breakdown of the call, A.B. highlights important financial lessons and practical customer service strategies for managing joint accounts effectively.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Timing Your Leverage in Negotiations:
   • Mentioning how long you’ve been a customer can be useful—but it’s more effective when used later in the conversation, not at the start. Waiting allows you to use it as a bargaining tool when negotiations become more rigid.
2. Keep Personal Records of Transactions:
   • Always document interactions with banks, including who you spoke to, when, and the nature of the conversation. While banks keep notes on their side, having your own records provides an additional layer of protection.
3. Joint Accounts Can Lead to Confusion if Not Managed Properly:
   • Miscommunication about account ownership and permissions can lead to serious financial complications. Make sure all necessary paperwork is confirmed, especially when removing an authorized party from an account.

3 Memorable Quotes from A.B. Ridgeway

1. "Notes beat no notes."
   • A reminder that thorough documentation helps protect consumers and institutions alike during disputes.
2. "Hold off on how long you've been a client—until they're unwilling to make any more adjustments."
   • Wise advice on using your tenure as leverage during tough negotiations.
3. "The general public really doesn't know how joint accounts work."
   • A candid observation on the importance of educating consumers about account management to avoid misunderstandings.

Tune in to hear: A.B. Ridgeway’s expert take on managing joint accounts, avoiding negotiation pitfalls, and the value of clear communication with financial institutions. Stay informed to prevent similar situations in your financial journey!

💵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.

Video/Audio Credit: DLai

In this episode, A.B. Ridgeway challenges listeners to reflect on their financial priorities, specifically when it comes to building an emergency fund. Drawing from a report highlighting that one in four Americans have no emergency savings, A.B. discusses the common excuses people make for not saving and the mindset shifts necessary to prioritize financial security. He tackles the concepts of lifestyle creep, how inflation impacts saving, and the importance of setting financial goals to prepare for unexpected events. A.B. also emphasizes the importance of cutting back on unnecessary expenses to prioritize yourself and your family's well-being.

Key Takeaways:

1. Emergency Savings is Essential, Not Optional: One in four Americans don't have emergency savings, but having at least three to six months of living expenses saved is crucial for financial security.
2. Lifestyle Creep is Real: As people earn more, their spending often increases, but maintaining a modest lifestyle while increasing savings can help combat this issue.
3. Prioritize Yourself First: You can't help others financially if you're struggling yourself. Establish financial boundaries, save for your future, and only then consider discretionary spending.

Notable Quotes:

1. "You don't have emergency savings because you don't want to have emergency savings."
2. "Set up a framework to say 'no' more now so you can have more 'yeses' later."
3. "You need to prioritize your savings before you think about saving the world."

💵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.