Stacy Johnson President/Journalist
Here's a little bit about me, my background, what I do and why I do it. I'm a 50-something married guy living in beautiful Fort Lauderdale, FL, the yachting capital of the world. I live in a modest house on a canal off the Intracoastal Waterway and have a boat or two behind my house. I love riding motorcycles (Softail Custom) sailing, fishing, traveling and laughing out loud as often as possible.
As far as credentials go, I've got more than most. I've been a CPA since 1980 and have also earned licenses in stocks, commodities, options, mutual funds, life insurance and real estate. I spent 10 years working for three Wall Street firms (EF Hutton, Shearson and Prudential) and have been investing in both stocks and real estate for about 30 years.
For the last 20 years, I've written, produced and distributed Money Talks News, a consumer/personal finance TV news feature that airs in about 80 cities nationwide as well as around the web. I've now done close to 3,000 personal finance news stories. I've also written a few books, including what I modestly consider to be the best how-to-get-out-of-debt book in the universe, Life or Debt.
While I'm certainly not rich in the Palm Beach/Central Park West sense, I'm financially independent, meaning I work because I want to and not because I have to. I didn't get here by selling books, tapes or seminars. I did it the same way I expect you to: one hard-fought paycheck at a time.
My philosophy is simple: as you go through life, you have the opportunity to either look rich or be rich. But you probably won't live long enough to accomplish both. So make a decision. If you want to look rich, you don't need me. Just do what the commercials tell you. If you want to be rich, however, I can help.
Consider this: if you can save just 5 bucks a day every day for 30 years, and earn 10% on it, you'll end up with $343,693. That's enough to change your life and the lives of those you love. And I'll assist by hooking you up with savings, both big and small, so you'll find that 5 bucks. And I'll give you investing advice so your money works as hard for you as you do for it.
So if you'd like to make more, spend less, avoid being ripped off and better understand money, keep coming back. We'll leave the lights on for you!
Posts by Stacy Johnson
Ask Stacy: What’s Better – Cheap Car or Great Mileage?
Dec 04, 2012 - This reader wants to buy a classic car, but he's concerned it will use too much gas. He shouldn't be.
10 of the World’s Most Insulting Fees and How to Beat Them
Dec 03, 2012 - The frenzy of fees in everything from travel to banking is the financial equivalent of a cold slap in the face. Here are 10 examples, and some advice on fighting back.
Take 5: A Roundup of Reads From Around the Web
Nov 30, 2012 - A look at five interesting personal finance posts from other bloggers around the Web. This week: why you should check your credit report, tips to boost longevity, money and marriage advice, free activities, and ways people make money troubles worse.
How Not to Win the Powerball Lottery
Nov 28, 2012 - Listen to network news, and you may think there are experts who can improve your odds of winning the lottery. Hogwash.
Ask Stacy: How Much Should I Contribute to My 401(k)?
Nov 27, 2012 - Fail to get every dime your employer offers in matching money, and you're turning down free money. Here's how to figure out how to get your max match, and why you should contribute even if you don't get matching money.
Take 5: A Roundup of Reads From Around the Web
Nov 23, 2012 - A look at five interesting personal finance posts from other bloggers around the Web. This week: daily deal sites, profitable part-time jobs, building your credit history, protecting yourself against thieves, and advice for managing money.
Ask Stacy: Is There Legitimate Work From Home?
Nov 20, 2012 - This reader needs some extra income, but is understandably afraid of Internet ads that might be scams. There are legitimate work-from-home jobs, but approach carefully.
6 Ways to Beat the Pants Off Black Friday Prices
Nov 19, 2012 - Sure, you'll find great prices on Black Friday. But you can sleep in, beat the crowds, and still find plenty of ways to save.
Take 5: A Roundup of Reads From Around the Web
Nov 16, 2012 - A look at five interesting personal finance posts from other bloggers around the Web. This week: improving work days, a better way to achieve goals, the growing cost of college, gift card tips, and practicing financial skills.
Ask Stacy: Are My Taxes About to Go Up?
Nov 13, 2012 - An Obama victory means higher taxes. Or does it?
Take 5: A Roundup of Reads From Around the Web
Nov 09, 2012 - A look at five interesting personal finance posts from other bloggers around the Web. This week: free money, the benefits of inconvenience, landing a higher salary, defining financial success, and saving more.
Ask Stacy: Will the Stock Market Fall in 2013?
Nov 06, 2012 - This reader wants to know if I've heard anything about a big market drop next year, and if they can change their 401(k) without changing jobs.
5 Lessons From the Stock Market Crash of 1987
Nov 05, 2012 - Twenty-five years ago the stock market lost more than 20 percent of its value in just one day. History? Yes. But also a good learning experience.
Take 5: A Roundup of Reads From Around the Web
Nov 02, 2012 - A look at five interesting personal finance posts from other bloggers around the Web. This week: safeguarding your career move, the election and taxes, making your hobby profitable, investment strategies, and avoiding the stress of meal planning.
Important Insurance Lessons from Superstorm Sandy
Oct 30, 2012 - Even if you're not one of the millions affected, there are lessons to be learned from Superstorm Sandy. Like what's covered, what's not, and how to deal with your insurance company.
