LMM has been around 2012, and we wanted to share why Listen Money Matters, matters to us (and hopefully, to you).
It’s hard to believe that more than 12 years have passed since Andrew started “Listen Money Matters” (LMM) as a project during a period when he was displaced from his job and home by Hurricane Sandy. Daily, I encounter clear signs of the ongoing need for the mission he embarked upon.
Are You Terrible with Money?
Struggling with financial management is more common than many realize, often manifesting as difficulties in budgeting, overspending, saving inadequately, or failing to plan for the future. Being “terrible with money” can lead to a cycle of debt, stress, and missed opportunities for financial growth.
If you recognize yourself in these scenarios, don’t be embarrassed. We’ve all faced challenges with managing our finances at some point. Whether it’s struggling to stick to a budget or navigating the complexities of saving and investing, financial missteps are a common part of learning and growing. Remember, acknowledging the issue is the first step toward financial empowerment and improvement.
Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward taking control of your finances. By understanding the root causes of poor money management, individuals can begin to implement strategies that include setting realistic budgets, establishing an emergency fund, and learning about investment options to improve their financial literacy and overall financial health.
Closing the Financial Gap
Getting started with managing your finances can seem daunting, but it’s a journey well worth embarking on. It’s crucial to educate yourself about personal finance—by reading posts on LMM, listening to LMM’s podcasts, or even consulting with a financial advisor.
As you gain knowledge and confidence, you can start to gradually incorporate more sophisticated financial strategies, such as investing in stocks, real estate, or retirement accounts. Remember, the key to financial mastery is consistency and a willingness to learn and adapt.
Fiscal flexibility that’s funny, free and delivered weekly.
LMM Can and Does Make A Difference
We witness this daily through the emails you send us. Many of you kindly express your enjoyment of the show, while others offer suggestions. Interestingly, many of those suggestions have been transformed into articles.
Many of you reach out with a variety of issues—big and small, simple and complex. Others share incredible, heartfelt stories about how LMM has helped them escape a difficult situation or prevent a potentially troublesome one.
LMM’s got your back with all the personal finance tips you need to hit your money goals, plus the tools to help you make it happen. Our reviews are all about giving you the inside scoop, so you can make smart choices and nail your financial game plan.
We Know That There is a Need and a Want
Well of course there is a need:
- As of February 2024, there was $1.74 trillion of outstanding student loan debt.
- According to the Fed, total U.S. credit card debt in Q4 of 2023 was $1.129 trillion. That is a record high.
- Among non-retired Americans, 64% of Americans don’t have enough saved for retirement and 48% don’t care!
- 54% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck.
- Only 24% of Millennials have basic financial literacy.
- 63% of Americans can’t afford a $500 emergency expense.
As you can see from the statistics above, many Americans struggle with managing their money, from budgeting and saving to investing and tackling debt. This shows a big need for simple, easy-to-understand financial advice. Getting the right tips and tools can make a huge difference, helping folks get a handle on their finances and feel more secure about their future. Whether it’s quick online guides or friendly workshops, making personal finance help more available is key to turning confusion into clarity and stress into stability.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Mastering your finances doesn’t have to be boring or overly complex. With the right approach, financial education can be engaging and straightforward. Interactive online tools, relevant learning experiences, and practical, real-life examples can transform the way you view and handle money. LMM podcasts and articles simplify concepts like budgeting, saving, and investing, making them accessible and interesting.
By integrating fun and simplicity into financial learning, you’re more likely to stick with it and see real improvements in your financial health. Start exploring these modern tools and see how managing your finances can become an enjoyable part of your daily routine.
Be a Part of Something Special
Get in on something awesome. LMM is where you can take control of your finances and truly put your money to work. Whether you’re looking to dive into investing, streamline your finances through automation, or simply make smarter financial decisions, we’ve got you covered. With our best strategies, tools, and unwavering support, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t just manage your money—master it with confidence and become financially savvy. Continue your journey with us and unlock the potential of your personal finances.
Fiscal flexibility that’s funny, free and delivered weekly.
Mark spent over 30 years as a senior finance executive in Private Banking, Asset Management and Alternative Investments. Mark holds a BS in Accounting from Brooklyn College, an MBA in Finance from Pace University as well as being sponsored to attend The Wharton School Executive Development Program.
