Nicole Recommends

Suggested Media...

Books:
Financial Peace Revisited, by Dave Ramsey - 
Why I Love It: This book packs a one-two punch that forces us to be honest about our financial situation. Filled with practical advice and old fashioned wisdom, this book has been a best seller for over a decade. Through his radio show, books, website tools, and classes Dave's message has inspired millions to pay of debt and build a new financial future.
What Could be Better: Paying off debt is the foundation of Dave Ramsey's plan which is great; however, I think some of his advice like buying a $1000 car over taking out a modest car loan, or paying for college in cash is not realistic for most people. His investment advice is also a bit shaky and would be best left to other experts in the field.

Investing For Dummies, by Eric Tyson - 
Why I Love It: With the elimination of pensions and the future of Social Security in question the need for financial literacy has become essential for everyone. Even if we use a financial adviser it is important that everyone understand the basics about how investing works. Investing for dummies covers everything the average person needs to know in simple factual terms without the grandiosity and sales pitches weaved into many of the other resources available.

What Could Be Better: Nothing really.

The Automatic Millionaire, by David Bach - 
Why I Love It: If you budget is under control and you're ready to take the next step, this quick read will offer motivating solutions to develop a successful savings plan. Based on the simple concept of "pay yourself first" David Bach's plan is something everyone can follow. It can also be a good option for those who are budget-phobic or have a hard time maintaining a budget.

What Could Be Better: David Bach tends to downplay the importance of basic budgeting which I personally feel is a necessary first step, however others may gravitate toward the idea of not having to do budget work.

Television and Film:
Inside The Meltdown, PBS Frontline: Whether you're still trying to wrap your head around what happened to the markets in 2008, or even if you think you have a solid understanding of what happened, this documentary is a must see. As gripping as a good drama, the viewer is taken moment by moment through some of the most intense moments in recent history. Watch it for free right from the PBS website.

The Company Men: A 2010 film starring Ben Affleck, The Company Men is a touching and hopeful tale that examines the psychological toll of a massive layoff in a New England community.

Rogue Trader: A 1999 film starring Ewan McGregor which chronicles Nick Leeson's involvement in the 1995 collapse of Barrings Bank in London, one of the worlds oldest financial institutions. This is a fairly technical film based on Leeson's own book about the events. Since his release from prison, Leeson has made a career in public speaking to warn others about the systematic risks of the world financial systems and the pressures that he felt as a trader which still exist today.