Money Management

Ever feel like everyone else got the secret money manual, but you're stuck guessing? You're not alone. And more importantly—you’re not behind. Everyone starts somewhere, and right now, you're exactly where you need to be to take control of your financial future. But since you’re here, that tells me one thing—you’re...

Hi, I'm Michael Ryan, and after 3 decades as a financial planner. I've seen it all: the crippling weight of student loans, the anxiety of living paycheck to paycheck, the shame of credit card debt spiraling out of control. I've sat across from tearful clients, feeling utterly lost. But I've...

Ever notice how some people seem naturally good with money while others struggle? After guiding over 1,000 families through their financial journeys, I've discovered it's not about intelligence or luck. Instead, it's about your money mindset. The right books can literally rewire your brain for wealth. Transforming how you...

I'm Michael Ryan, a retired financial planner with 25+ years of experience. Having guided over 1,000 families toward financial stability. Throughout my career, I’ve come across my share of financial guides. But few have had the lasting impact of The Wealthy Barber by David Chilton. I decided to revisit David...

Here's what you need to know about calculating your liquid net worth. I'm talking about the actual cash you can access right now, not your house or your 401(k). Your liquid net worth is the cash and cash-equivalent assets you can access right now—after subtracting your debts. Unlike total net...

Did you know that even billionaires like Jeff Bezos might find it challenging to access a significant portion of their wealth instantly? Despite astronomical net worth figures, available cash—or liquid net worth—can tell a very different story.  Understanding liquid net worth is crucial for anyone seeking true financial security and flexibility. Have you...

Yes, Chime works seamlessly with Cash App. You can link your Chime Spending Account and debit card to transfer money between both platforms. As a financial planner, one of the most common areas of confusion I see is how modern financial tools interact. You're trying to pay a friend back,...

As a financial planner for nearly 30 years, I've taught my clients that the secret to building wealth lies in managing the details. One of the most common details people overlook is the small, forgotten balances on Visa gift cards. This isn't just about convenience; it's about preventing "financial...

In my 30 years as a financial planner, I’ve seen more anxiety caused by payday uncertainty than by stock market crashes. The question, "Where is my money?" can be incredibly stressful, especially when bills are due. That's why Chime’s promise of early direct deposits is so appealing. So, what time...

Here's the straight answer: No. Chime doesn't work with Zelle anymore. Since Zelle shut down its standalone app in April 2025, Chime users lost their only workaround. The two services are officially incompatible. Why the disconnect? Chime partners with The Bancorp Bank and Stride Bank, neither of which joined Zelle's...