On the next 2 weeks of podcasts, we will share our experiences with short term missions.  We hope you enjoy our insights on the people, their living conditions, and how to make a positive impact in their lives. This week we will talk about Ecuador. Key takeaways:

• What we enjoy about Ecuadorians
• Geographical & Economic highlights of Quito
• Medical Tents bring blood pressure & sugar readings, and eyeglasses
• How you can bring hope to remote villages

On the next 2 weeks of podcasts, we will share our experiences with short term missions.  We hope you enjoy our insights on the people, their living conditions, and how to make a positive impact in their lives. This week we will talk about Cuba. Key takeaways:

• What does socialism really look like
• Poverty in Cuba vs poverty in the US
• Money manipulation in Cuba
• Many Cubans have never seen an American

Many people are accumulating cash out of concern for stock market losses.  We see many people that are frustrated though as safe alternatives for their cash often are not earning enough to keep up with inflation.  Today we talk about safe and liquid options that are earning more than brick and mortar banks are paying. Key takeaways:

• Online High Yield Savings accounts
• How to find one that is right for you
• I-Bonds - how they work and what they are paying

2022 was a unique year for the stock market as many negative factors came together at the same time.  The US hasn't seen this combination before: stocks and bonds both down, inflation, and some say a recession.  So do traditional 60/40 investment plans work anymore? Listen to this week's podcast to see why your investment strategies need to change. Key takeaways:

• The impact of rising interest, inflation and recession in the same year
• Review of key metrics for 2022
• 3rd worst year in stock market history for 60/40 plans

Ever make "big" New Year's resolutions that were onerous, difficult, and didn't last long?  We all have.  So instead, try some of these simple resolutions that are small steps to big change. Key Takeaways:

• Wake up every morning with a simple positive statement
• Recognize happy moments when you are in them
• Is this current issue long term?  If not, let it go
• Don't procrastinate, get things done as they come up

We have all tried New Year's Resolutions that didn't last long.  Instead of resolutions, try adding simple new habits.  We hope you can take one, two, or just a few of these simple habits and make them a part of your New Year.  Our hope for you is that this coming year is better than this past year. Key takeaways:

• Get healthy, good breakfast, drink more water, sleep 7-8 hours a night
• Be proud of yourself, reflects on your good qualities and your strengths
• Plan! Your next day's goals & outfit, monthly goals, and daily to do's
• Think in solutions, not problems

We have all tried New Year's Resolutions that didn't last long.  Instead of resolutions, try adding simple new habits.  We hope you can take one, two, or just a few of these simple habits and make them a part of your New Year.  Our hope for you is that this coming year is better than this past year. Key takeaways:

• Count your blessings, and let those you love know what you think of them
• Journals, bucket lists, and to do lists
• Help others, be kind, stop judging others

What an exciting time becoming a new Grandparent.  This is new territory that needs to be navigated with wisdom and grace.  Times have changed, and the baby has parents who may have different ideas than you do. Listen this week for our tips for new Grandparents. Key takeaways:

• Keep your advice to yourself
• Listen to the parents
• Help when you can, and that includes the parents
• Follow the parent's rules

Most people have found themselves dealing with too much debt as some time in their lives.  Others live in perpetual debt.  It isn't a good feeling when those debt payments seem endless.  This three-part series will give you some ideas on how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Today we talk about creative ways to cut down on expenses.   Key takeaways:

• Make a budget
• Extra income with side gig, sell stuff on Facebook Marketplace, stop investing
• Have one credit card and pay it off every month
• Give more

Most people have found themselves dealing with too much debt as some time in their lives.  Others live in perpetual debt.  It isn't a good feeling when those debt payments seem endless.  This three-part series will give you some ideas on how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Today we talk about creative ways to cut down on expenses.   Key takeaways:

• Online coupons and consignment shopping are great ways to buy what you need at a discount
• FOOD is the hardest budget item to control
• Do you need expensive hobbies or memberships?
• Get creative with free entertainment