Financial Education Archive
Money Courage – February 2026

Money Courage – February 2026

February isn’t just about Valentine’s Day, it’s a reminder that the relationships in our lives are deeply connected to how we think about, use, and talk about money. The best financial plans aren’t just about numbers, they’re about alignment, trust, and shared vision. And February is the perfect time to strengthen those connections.

Beyond the Balance: Turning Energy Into Impact, Relationships, and Real Growth with Larry Long Jr.

Beyond the Balance: Turning Energy Into Impact, Relationships, and Real Growth with Larry Long Jr.

In this episode of Beyond the Balance, Mike Manganillo sits down with Larry Long Jr., a global keynote speaker, author of Jolt, and former University of Maryland baseball player to explore what real growth looks like beyond titles and numbers. Larry shares his path from athletics to sales, the mindset shift that came after getting let go in 2021, and how coaching, mentorship, and intentional relationships helped him bet on himself. They discuss integration over balance, relationship-driven sales, and why caring more, listening better, and doing the little things consistently can create lasting impact.

Money Courage – January 2026

Money Courage – January 2026

January isn’t about perfection, it’s about direction. As we kick off 2026, this is a great time to pause, reflect, and intentionally set the tone for the year ahead. A few ideas to get started: Revisit the “why” before the “what.” What are you really working toward this year – flexibility, security, experiences, peace of mind? Pick 1–3 financial priorities, not a long to-do list. Progress beats pressure every time. Focus on habits, not just outcomes. Small, consistent actions often matter more than big, one-time decisions. Check alignment. Do your goals reflect your current life, or last year’s assumptions?

Beyond the Balance: Starting a Business Without Quitting Your Day Job with Shannon Thomas

Beyond the Balance: Starting a Business Without Quitting Your Day Job with Shannon Thomas

In this episode of Beyond the Balance, host Mike Manganillo talks with Shannon Thomas, co-founder of ⁠Fratelli’s Delicatessen⁠ in Apex, North Carolina, about what it really takes to start a business while maintaining a full-time corporate career. Shannon shares her journey from international finance and Wall Street to IT tech sales at Red Hat and Pure Storage—all while launching a family-owned deli rooted in community, tradition, and great food. We explore the realities of small business financing, overcoming COVID-era setbacks, adapting quickly after opening day, and why listening to your customers is one of the most important skills an entrepreneur can develop.

2025 TradeWinds’ End-of-Year Market Video

2025 TradeWinds’ End-of-Year Market Video

In this conversation, we reflect on the highs and lows of 2025, everything from market volatility and headline risk (tariffs, AI, and policy shifts) to the reality that “Main Street” hasn’t always felt the same optimism as “Wall Street.” Financial advisor’s Jeb Bowie and Miller Hoffman break down why reacting to scary predictions can backfire, and shares practical steps you can take heading into 2026 like building an emergency fund, understanding your cash flow, reviewing insurance coverage, and making sure your portfolio risk matches your goals.