Next Gen Personal Finance

In this episode of the NGPF Speaker Series, Yanely welcomes Dr. Kim Harms, grief counselor and death doula, shares her unique perspective on end-of-life planning and legacy building. With decades of experience and a life shaped by personal loss, Dr. Harms discusses the importance of emotional and financial legacy planning. She also offers insights on how educators can introduce these sensitive topics to students, ensuring they understand the value of planning ahead. Tune in for practical advice and inspiring wisdom on preparing for life's inevitable transitions.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Christian is joined by Professor Madelaine L'Esperance from the University of Alabama, who shares her team's research on the state of financial education in U.S. high schools. She discusses the Mapping Personal Finance Education Project, which analyzed over 10,000 course catalogs to assess access to personal finance courses. Professor L'Esperance highlights key findings, including the role of state policies in expanding financial education and the difference between standalone and embedded courses. Tune in to learn about the challenges and opportunities in improving financial literacy education for students.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely is joined by Kerry Woodward, an Executive Director at Philadelphia Financial Scholars. Kerry shares her unique journey from a successful career in finance to her work in urban education, where she's helping students and families gain financial empowerment. Philadelphia Financial Scholars partners with public schools to offer dedicated personal finance classes, while also extending workshops to families to promote financial literacy beyond the classroom. Kerry discusses the innovative approach her team uses to address the financial needs of underserved communities and how they're overcoming barriers to parental engagement. Tune in to learn how financial education can change lives and empower entire communities.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim is joined by Lucretia Ryan, founder of FinancialFreedomForWomen.org, to dive deep into the complexities of Medicare. With years of experience helping women gain financial independence, Lucretia brings her expertise to the table, explaining the critical differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. She breaks down the often-overlooked details, including hidden fees, prior authorizations, and how to make the best decision based on your health and future needs. Lucretia also offers resources to help you navigate retirement planning and avoid common financial pitfalls. Whether you're preparing for Medicare or helping a loved one, this episode provides valuable insights to make informed decisions.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely is joined by Jasmine Rashid, the author of The Financial Activist Playbook: 8 Strategies for Everyday People to Reclaim Wealth and Collective Well-Being. In this episode, Jasmine discusses how everyday people can use financial decisions to drive social change. She explains financial activism, its difference from economic activism, and how individuals can reclaim wealth and promote justice through everyday financial choices. Jasmine shares her personal journey and offers practical strategies for aligning money with movements for equity. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to make a difference through financial empowerment.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim Ranzetta is joined by Sheraz, Ben, and Charley from FinTeens, a student-run organization focused on educating teens about personal finance. Starting on TikTok, FinTeens has grown into a global community, offering interactive content and competitions. The group shares insights on topics like investing, budgeting, college costs, and more, and how they've used social media to make financial education accessible and engaging. Tune in to hear how these young leaders are empowering their peers and spreading financial knowledge.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Melissa Lambarena, a content expert from NerdWallet, shares her journey from creating legal content to helping people navigate personal finance topics. With a focus on service journalism, Melissa has spent years breaking down complex financial concepts to make them accessible for consumers. She discusses the importance of understanding credit card hardship programs, debunks common misconceptions about credit cards, and offers advice on how students can build strong credit habits. Tune in for valuable insights on credit cards, credit scores, and managing finances effectively.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely speaks with Mark Salisbury, founder of TuitionFit, about his journey from college soccer coach to expert in college admissions and financial aid. Mark highlights the challenges students and families face in understanding the true cost of college and introduces TuitionFit, a tool designed to bring more transparency to pricing. He also shares advice on avoiding overwhelming student loan debt, including the "One-to-One rule" for borrowing and the importance of planning ahead.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely welcomes Christopher Phelps, founder of Financipation, who shares his journey from a military household to becoming a financial literacy advocate for underrepresented communities. He discusses the fundamentals of building wealth, including living below your means, investing in low-cost index funds, and starting a side hustle. Christopher offers practical advice for breaking the cycle of poverty and achieving long-term financial security. Tune in for insights that can help anyone take control of their financial future.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Sarah Samuels, a partner in the investment industry, shares her journey from growing up with financial uncertainty to managing a $1.7 trillion portfolio. She discusses the importance of role models in shaping careers and offers advice for educators on overcoming barriers to teaching investing, especially jargon. Sarah also talks about her children's book "Braving Our Savings", which introduces kids to investing and money management. Tune in to learn how educators and parents can help students build financial confidence and a strong foundation for their future.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely speaks with Joe Lanza, a financial expert with a background in investment banking and financial services, as he breaks down the world of bonds. Joe explains what bonds are, how they differ from stocks, and why they're a key investment for diversification and steady income. He also explores the different types of bonds, including government, municipal, and corporate bonds, while covering topics like bond safety, interest rates, and pricing. Joe's insights make understanding bonds easier, whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen your knowledge.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim speaks with Patricia Kelly, a finance expert and college professor who developed a highly popular personal finance course at UC Santa Cruz. Patricia shares her journey into teaching, starting with her early lessons about money from her father and her experiences in investment banking. She discusses how she designed her course to make finance accessible to all students, focusing on budgeting, credit cards, taxes, and investing. Patricia also highlights the importance of simplifying complex concepts and providing context to help students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, gain confidence in managing their money.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely speaks with Kyle Saelinger, Owner & Head of Program at Fintrinsic, a company dedicated to financial education for first-generation, low-income students. Kyle shares how Fintrinsic empowers students to manage finances, build wealth, and overcome the challenges of college. She also discusses the company's focus on fostering a growth mindset to help students reach their potential. She also discusses the company's focus on fostering a growth mindset to help students reach their potential.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim speaks with Chris Van Duin, a high school teacher who has integrated the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program into his accounting and personal finance classes. Chris discusses how his students prepare real tax returns for local families, providing them with hands-on financial experience while supporting the community. He shares the positive impact the program has had on both students and families, emphasizing the development of responsibility, communication, and compassion. This episode offers valuable insights for educators looking to create meaningful, community-based financial literacy opportunities.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely speaks with Don Berkman, who spent 32 years at Dun & Bradstreet helping small business owners thrive. Don shares his journey from growing up in a middle-class family to becoming a financial literacy advocate. He offers career advice for students today, discussing the balance between job stability and the gig economy. Don also talks about his shift to a nomadic lifestyle and emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in both career and personal life.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim welcomes Erin and David, two teachers with thriving side hustles. Erin works as a travel agent specializing in Disney and Royal Caribbean vacations, while David serves as a guest services supervisor for the Kansas City Royals. They discuss how they balance teaching with their side hustles and share how skills from the classroom help them succeed in these roles. Tune in for insights into managing time, providing excellent customer service, and navigating the challenges of both careers.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely welcomes Professor Harold Pollack, author of The Index Card: Why Personal Finance Doesn't Have to Be Complicated. Professor Pollack discusses his journey from public health to personal finance, sharing the simple, nine-rule index card that offers essential financial advice. He talks about the importance of budgeting, saving, and avoiding complex financial products. Professor Polack also addresses the pressures young people face from social media and the financial industry, offering practical tips for educators to help students make smarter financial decisions.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim speaks with Andrew Jack, a reporter at The Financial Times, about his career in journalism and the paper's efforts to support financial literacy education. Andrew shares how The Financial Times offers free access to its resources for students and educators, helping them navigate economic and financial issues. He also discusses the challenges of integrating financial education in classrooms and the growing need for global and financial literacy. Tune in for insights on the impact of quality journalism in shaping future leaders.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely talks to Teng Yang, Assistant Director of College Access and Success at Democracy Prep Public Schools, about his journey from a refugee camp in Thailand to becoming a leader in college access. Teng, a Brown University graduate and former Brown admissions evaluator, shares key insights on the college admissions process, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both the application process and the financial realities of higher education, offering invaluable advice for students navigating these challenges.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim Ranzetta talks with Ram Palaniappan, founder of EarnIn, a platform that advances earned wages to help users avoid overdraft fees. Ram shares the story of EarnIn's origin, its role in empowering financially strained employees, and its impact on users from various sectors, including retail and healthcare. The discussion also explores the significance of innovative financial services in improving daily financial management and personal finance education.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim talks with Stephen Chen, founder of Boldin, formerly NewRetirement. They discuss Steve's entrepreneurial journey in financial planning, highlighting the transformation from NewRetirement to Boldin and the shift towards empowering users with comprehensive, accessible financial tools. The conversation delves into the importance of financial literacy, strategies for retirement planning, and the evolving landscape of financial advising fees. Steve also shares personal anecdotes and insights on how proper financial planning can significantly impact individual lives, underscoring the importance of starting financial education early.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, host Christian Sherrill talks with Diana Curtaz from Wayfinder about the impact of social emotional learning (SEL) on education. Diana discusses how Wayfinder's curriculum prepares students for future challenges by enhancing essential skills like empathy, agency, and adaptability. She explores the connection between SEL and financial literacy, emphasizing how these skills support prudent decision-making and financial management. Join in to hear how SEL is shaping students to be well-rounded individuals ready for modern life's complexities.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely Espinal speaks with Rand Selig, author and founder of Selig Capital Group. They explore themes from his book, "Thriving! How to Create a Healthier, Happier, and More Prosperous Life," discussing the importance of personal empowerment, character, and maintaining a growth mindset in finance. Rand also shares insights on integrating financial success with personal values, providing valuable guidance for achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely Espinal interviews Sheena Allen, founder of CapWay, about her journey from growing up in Mississippi to leading a fintech innovation that enhances financial inclusion. She discusses the challenges and systemic barriers in creating financial solutions for underserved communities. The episode covers Sheena's early app development ventures, her use of technology to address banking deserts, and her commitment to supporting Black and Brown communities. Insights include the complexities of starting a tech company as a non-technical founder and the transformative potential of fintech in financial education and access.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim Ranzetta welcomes Abby and Katie, co-founders of ClassBank, to discuss their journey from teachers to tech entrepreneurs. They explore how ClassBank, a platform designed to simulate real-world financial scenarios, enhances financial literacy by integrating a digital classroom economy. The co-founders share insights on the evolution of their product, its impact on students' financial understanding, and their future plans to expand and adapt their offerings based on educator feedback.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim Ranzetta welcomes Professor Meir Statman of Santa Clara University, where they discuss his latest insights on behavioral finance. Drawing on a rich academic career and his recent book, “A Wealth of Well-Being: A Holistic Approach to Behavioral Finance,” Professor Statman explores the intersection of finance with personal well-being, offering nuanced perspectives on why understanding human behavior is crucial in finance. Through his engaging narrative, he highlights the transformative power of combining financial knowledge with life goals to enhance overall well-being.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Tim Ranzetta is joined by Sonia Dalal (Director of Curriculum) and Amanda Volz (Director of Professional Development) from the NGPF Team. Sonia explores NGPF's expanded curriculum, focusing on the versatile semester course designed to empower educators and engage students. Amanda discusses innovative teaching strategies to keep finance lessons dynamic and interesting. Together, they offer valuable insights for educators looking to enrich their financial literacy programs.

In this NGPF Speaker Series episode, Yanely interviews Joe Lanza of Dow Jones about their new educational initiative with the Wall Street Journal, aiming to enhance financial literacy resources for educators. Joe shares his personal and professional journey in finance and details the specific tools and resources being offered by Dow Jones to support financial education. The discussion emphasizes the critical need for integrating financial literacy into current educational frameworks, highlighting the broader implications for teachers and students alike.

In this episode of the NGPF Podcast, Tim interviews Coach Matt Dougherty from Paul Smith's College, nestled in the Adirondacks. Coach Matt discusses his approach to integrating environmental education with athletics and the impact of coaching on student athletes. He explores the challenges of building a nationally recognized sports program and emphasizes the importance of belonging and resilience in athletic training. This episode offers insights into the parallels between effective coaching and teaching, highlighting transformational coaching experiences.

In this episode, host Tim Ranzetta welcomes Dylan Ingerman and Cole Mattox of First Generation Investors. They discuss their early financial experiences and the founding of their nonprofit, which educates high school students on investing and financial literacy. The episode highlights their program's approach to making financial concepts relatable through current events and the challenges of expanding their reach. They also share insights on the impact and importance of financial education for young people.

In this episode of the NGPF Speaker Series, Dina and Tony Isola tackle financial literacy with a focus on educators. They discuss psychological barriers to effective money management and share insights into teacher retirement planning. The Isolas highlight the risks of high-fee investment products and emphasize strategic investment approaches for those with pensions. Offering practical advice, they advocate for informed decision-making to ensure financial stability. This episode is essential for educators aiming to improve their financial literacy and investment strategies.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Yanely welcomes Rod Griffin from Experian to discuss the significant changes in the credit industry since 2019, including the rise of "Buy Now, Pay Later" services. Rod shares insights from his career and personal experiences with credit management. The discussion covers strategies for building and maintaining credit health, the importance of financial education, and recent updates in credit reporting practices. This episode provides essential guidance for navigating credit complexities and improving financial literacy.

Mary Dyer discusses her role at the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME), focusing on financial literacy and student aid. She introduces 'Claim Your Future,' an educational tool that helps students explore the financial outcomes of different career and educational paths. Mary shares insights on integrating financial education into various learning environments, making this episode a valuable resource for educators aiming to enhance their financial literacy programs.

In this NGPF podcast episode, Yanely and Aaron explore the complexities of modern marital finances and the importance of prenuptial agreements. He explains how prenups can serve as vital tools for establishing clear financial boundaries and responsibilities in a marriage, ensuring that couples start their union with transparency and mutual understanding. Aaron's insights provide valuable guidance on navigating the often tricky intersection of love and finance.

Jaclyn Pinero, CEO of uAspire, joins us to explore college affordability and financial aid. Jaclyn discusses the challenges students face with financial aid applications, institutional aid, and scholarships. She highlights how uAspire aids in demystifying these processes for both students and educators, providing essential tools and training. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand and navigate the financial complexities of higher education.

In this episode of the NGPF Speaker Series, Matthew Meade shares his journey from New Jersey to Wall Street, highlighting his career development in finance. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, authenticity, and continuous learning in the workplace. Matthew discusses how artificial intelligence is reshaping finance and provides advice for young people interested in the field, underscoring the importance of soft skills alongside technical expertise.  Join us as Matthew also touches on his experience with writing and self-publishing, encouraging a philosophy of lifelong learning and legacy building. 

In this NGPF podcast episode, Yanely Espinal talks with Lenworth Williamson, a former professional athlete and current leader at BUILD.org, who discusses his journey from athletics to empowering youth through entrepreneurship education. Raised by Jamaican immigrant parents, Len shares how his background shaped his approach to teaching and mentoring in urban public schools. He highlights the role of entrepreneurial skills in fostering student engagement and the critical importance of financial literacy. Discover Lenworth's impactful strategies for inspiring the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.

In this NGPF podcast episode, Tim Ranzetta talks with Brendan Duebner, who has transitioned from military service to pioneering financial education for military personnel through his initiative, Life Skills for Soldiers. Brendan shares insights from his journey and discusses the impact of financial readiness training on service members. This episode delves into the challenges and successes of embedding financial education within the military, highlighting Brendan's innovative approaches and his vision for empowering service members financially.

In this episode of the NGPF podcast, host Tim Ranzetta talks with Roy Stevens, author of the new book "The Sloth Investor: Simplifying Investing for All," about his investment strategy that emphasizes simplicity, low fees, and global diversification. Roy discusses his foundational principles, shaped by personal experiences and industry giants like Warren Buffett, advocating for a passive approach to investing. He addresses the psychological barriers and educational deficiencies that often impede effective investing. This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone looking to adopt a more deliberate and informed approach to their financial growth.

Special host Christian Sherill and Nicole Lin from Tyton Partners explore a study that quantifies the lifetime financial benefits of personal finance education, highlighting a potential $100,000 impact per student. Nicole discusses the methodology and findings of the study, emphasizing its practical implications for students' financial behaviors and decision-making. The conversation also covers regional variations in these benefits and their implications for educational policy. This episode is essential for educators and policymakers focused on the importance of financial literacy.

In this episode of the NGPF Podcast, Tim talks with Patrick Geddes, former Morningstar innovator and founder of Aperio. Patrick shares his journey from academia to finance, detailing his experiences as an "accidental entrepreneur" and discussing his book, "Transparent Investing." He explains the pitfalls of the investment industry and the importance of behavioral finance, emphasizing practical strategies for effective investing. This conversation offers essential insights for navigating the complexities of the investment world with clarity and confidence.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, co-founders Tim Ranzetta and Jessica Endlich discuss the impactful journey of Next Gen Personal Finance, alongside testimonials from Eastside College Preparatory School alumni – Jasmine, David, and Darius. They explore NGPF's influence on financial education, curriculum evolution, and future aspirations. This conversation highlights the organization's nationwide impact and upcoming challenges in enhancing financial literacy in the U.S.  

In this NGPF Podcast, Dr. Carly Urban, an Associate Professor of Economics at Montana State University, discusses her research on the impact of state policies on personal finance education in U.S. high schools. Over five years, she has analyzed how schools implement financial education, revealing variations in curriculum integration and access. Dr. Urban explores the effectiveness of standalone courses versus embedded content and highlights the challenges of ensuring educational consistency. Her findings underscore the importance of robust financial literacy programs and their potential benefits for students. Tune in to gain insights into the current state and future directions of financial education in schools.

In this NGPF Podcast episode, Dan Otter and Scott Dauenhauer of 403bwise discuss the challenges teachers face with 403B retirement plans, including high fees and poor investment options. The duo shares their advocacy journey to empower educators with better financial literacy and tools for improving retirement outcomes. They also explore state policies impacting financial education and offer practical advice for educators aiming to enhance their financial plans. Listen to this discussion to learn how educators can navigate and advocate for better retirement options.

In this episode, Karen Holland discusses her innovative platform, Gifting Sense, which equips young learners with the tools to make informed spending decisions. Karen, a former sovereign risk analyst, combines her financial expertise with her passion for education to help children understand the value of money through her "Does it Make Sense Score" calculator. The podcast explores how Gifting Sense promotes financial literacy by encouraging kids to critically assess their purchasing choices, significantly impacting their financial awareness and decision-making skills.  

This week's podcast delves into the compelling story of a determined group of advocates from Wisconsin. This diverse group, including four teachers, one administrator, and a proactive student, share their multi-year efforts to embed financial literacy in the high school curriculum. Their story not only showcases the power of persistent advocacy and community engagement but also sets a model for similar educational reforms in other states. The episode offers insights into the strategies and personal commitments that drove this significant change.

Daniella Cardona, an undocumented high school student turned Vice President at the Royal Bank of Canada, shares an inspiring journey marked by resilience and an insightful dive into financial literacy. Daniela, who moved from Colombia to the U.S. at a young age, discusses her formative experiences with money, highlighting how early challenges shaped her savvy financial instincts and career trajectory. As the conversation unfolds, Daniela reflects on her path from being a lifeguard to breaking into the competitive world of investment banking, illustrating the significant role mentors played in her development. This episode not only explores Daniela's personal story and professional ascent but also serves as a beacon of motivation for educators and students navigating the complexities of financial education and career exploration.

Rishi, Founder of East Peasy Finance, recounts his early fascination with finance at six years old, and how it led to the creation of Easy Peasy Finance. This platform, where Rishi has produced over 700 videos, aims to demystify finance for kids and beginners through engaging and simplified content. He shares his content creation process, emphasizing the importance of making finance accessible and interesting. Rishi also touches on his entrepreneurial journey, the use of AI in financial education, his published books, and his aspiration to further financial literacy among youth. His dedication to finance, driven by passion rather than the pursuit of virality, showcases the importance of early financial education and the impact of following one's interests with commitment.

Sonia Castelan, a tax professional shares her journey from struggling with personal finances to becoming an expert in tax planning and preparation. Sonia details her transition from a corporate job to running her own tax business, emphasizing the importance of tax planning for entrepreneurs and individuals alike. She offers insights into common tax misconceptions, particularly around tax refunds and business expenses, and stresses the importance of education in navigating the tax system. Sonia's story of leveraging social media to educate and engage with her community, especially the Latino community, highlights her innovative approach to making tax information accessible and understandable. The conversation also touches on the impact of studying sociology on her career, her experiences with prestigious programs like the Cornell Women's Entrepreneurship Program, and the importance of work-life balance. This episode is a rich resource for educators looking to integrate tax education into their curriculum, providing practical insights and strategies for understanding and teaching about taxes.

JL Collins, a prominent figure in the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement, discusses the essence and appeal of financial independence (FI). Collins explains FI as living below one's means to achieve freedom from traditional employment, highlighting its growing popularity due to technological advancements and societal prosperity. He shares insights from his books, emphasizing the power of investing in low-cost index funds and the importance of a community in navigating the journey toward FI. Collins provides practical advice for achieving financial independence, advocating for consistent investment in broad-market index funds and underscoring the necessity of understanding one's investment strategy. Through personal stories and expert advice, the episode inspires listeners to pursue financial independence with informed conviction and community support.

Nadia and Nicole, The Wealth Twins, share their inspiring journey of growing up in a tough neighborhood in Queens, New York, and how they overcame financial struggles to pursue successful careers on Wall Street. They discuss their mission to teach personal finance and wealth-building principles to empower others, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. The conversation covers topics such as savings strategies, investing fundamentals, overcoming financial obstacles, the importance of financial education, and practical tips for teachers to engage students in learning about money management and retirement planning.