Month: January 2025

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Emergency Savings: A Financial Safety Net Few Americans Have

Since 2014, Bankrate has conducted an annual emergency savings report, assessing how Americans handle unexpected financial expenses. The latest report, released on January 23, 2025, found that only 41% of Americans would rely on savings to cover a sudden $1,000 expense—such as an emergency room visit or a car repair. This marks a decline from 44% the previous year. The rest would turn to credit cards, personal loans, spending cuts, or borrowing from family and friends.

Even more concerning, as of May 2024, 27% of U.S. adults have no emergency savings at all—the highest percentage since 2020. This is one of the most alarming statistics I’ve come across lately.

Living Paycheck to Paycheck: A Widespread Problem

Emergencies are inevitable, yet many people fail to prepare for them financially. As a result, when an unexpected expense arises, they often resort to high-interest debt, which can quickly spiral into an unmanageable financial burden. This cycle keeps people stuck, living paycheck to paycheck, unable to build financial security.

In the Bankrate report, Senior Economic Analyst Mark Hamrick stated:

“We are essentially a paycheck-to-paycheck nation. Fewer Americans have the equivalent of a financial safety net to cover inevitable unexpected expenses, despite low unemployment and steady growth.”

Hamrick is right. Many Americans live paycheck to paycheck—not necessarily due to a lack of income, but due to poor financial habits. The U.S. economy thrives on consumption, constantly encouraging people to spend rather than save. At the same time, many Americans aren’t taught how to manage money, leading to mindless spending and financial stress.

This issue doesn’t just affect low-income households. A 2022 study by LendingClub and PYMNTS found that 51% of consumers earning more than $100,000 annually still live paycheck to paycheck. This proves that earning more money alone doesn’t solve financial struggles—how you manage your money matters more.

Breaking Free from the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle

For most people, the only way out of this cycle is to make better financial choices. Money is a tool, and learning how to use it wisely is essential for stability and growth.

As we move through 2025, I encourage everyone to set a goal of financial security. While terms like “financial freedom” and “financial independence” are popular in personal finance discussions, I believe most people should first aim to be financially secure. There is tremendous peace of mind in knowing that a financial emergency won’t derail your life.

You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight—small, intentional choices can make a significant impact.

  • Pack your lunch instead of ordering food, and put the money saved toward an emergency fund or debt repayment.
  • Cancel unused subscriptions and redirect that money into savings.
  • Automate small deposits into a savings account to build an emergency fund over time.

Making these small sacrifices may seem difficult, but life itself is hard—and doing hard things often leads to great rewards. Even Jesus taught the power of sacrifice, and financial sacrifices, whether small or large, can have a lasting positive impact on your life.

Start today. Your future self will thank you.

Even more concerning, as of May 2024, 27% of U.S. adults have no emergency savings at all—the highest percentage since 2020. This is one of the most alarming statistics I’ve come across lately.

Living Paycheck to Paycheck: A Widespread Problem

Emergencies are inevitable, yet many people fail to prepare for them financially. As a result, when an unexpected expense arises, they often resort to high-interest debt, which can quickly spiral into an unmanageable financial burden. This cycle keeps people stuck, living paycheck to paycheck, unable to build financial security.

In the Bankrate report, Senior Economic Analyst Mark Hamrick stated:

“We are essentially a paycheck-to-paycheck nation. Fewer Americans have the equivalent of a financial safety net to cover inevitable unexpected expenses, despite low unemployment and steady growth.”

Hamrick is right. Many Americans live paycheck to paycheck—not necessarily due to a lack of income, but due to poor financial habits. The U.S. economy thrives on consumption, constantly encouraging people to spend rather than save. At the same time, many Americans aren’t taught how to manage money, leading to mindless spending and financial stress.

This issue doesn’t just affect low-income households. A [2022 study by LendingClub and PYMNTS found that 51% of consumers earning more than $100,000 annually still live paycheck to paycheck. This proves that earning more money alone doesn’t solve financial struggles—how you manage your money matters more.

Breaking Free from the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle

For most people, the only way out of this cycle is to make better financial choices. Money is a tool, and learning how to use it wisely is essential for stability and growth.

As we move through 2025, I encourage everyone to set a goal of financial security. While terms like “financial freedom” and “financial independence” are popular in personal finance discussions, I believe most people should first aim to be financially secure. There is tremendous peace of mind in knowing that a financial emergency won’t derail your life.

You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight—small, intentional choices can make a significant impact.

  • Pack your lunch instead of ordering food, and put the money saved toward an emergency fund or debt repayment.
  • Cancel unused subscriptions and redirect that money into savings.
  • Automate small deposits into a savings account to build an emergency fund over time.

Making these small sacrifices may seem difficult, but life itself is hard—and doing hard things often leads to great rewards. Even Jesus taught the power of sacrifice, and financial sacrifices, whether small or large, can have a lasting positive impact on your life.

Start today. Your future self will thank you.

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Our Stories

On a Roll!

President Trump’s Action-Packed Agenda: Executive Orders, Border Security, Energy Independence, and American Values

Washington, D.C. – Since assuming office, President Donald J. Trump has embarked on an ambitious path to restore what he describes as “American greatness,” signing a slate of executive orders and traveling to key states impacted by economic, natural, and social challenges. These actions reflect a commitment to advancing a robust policy agenda spanning national security, energy independence, economic reform, and cultural restoration.

A Surge of Executive Orders to Redefine Governance

President Trump has signed an unprecedented number of executive orders aimed at reversing policies of the prior administration while implementing his vision for a revitalized America. These orders cover a wide array of areas, from bolstering border security to cutting regulatory red tape and restoring accountability in government.

Among the most notable is a comprehensive directive to streamline federal bureaucracy, freeze non-essential hiring, and eliminate burdensome diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This move, aimed at maximizing government efficiency, is part of his broader effort to “drain the swamp.” The President has also prioritized executive orders addressing energy independence, national security, and the protection of American values.

Commitment to Border Security and Public Safety

President Trump has taken bold steps to address the record-high border crossings and related criminal activity. Executive orders include reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, ending catch-and-release practices, and empowering law enforcement and the National Guard to secure the U.S.-Mexico border. Additionally, the President plans to designate transnational criminal cartels, including Tren de Aragua, as foreign terrorist organizations, leveraging the Alien Enemies Act to enhance deportation efforts.

During recent visits to North Carolina and California—states significantly impacted by immigration challenges and criminal activity—President Trump reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of American communities. These trips underscored the administration’s focus on hearing directly from local leaders and citizens grappling with these pressing issues.

Energy Independence and Economic Relief

President Trump has declared a national energy emergency and initiated actions to reduce regulatory barriers for American energy production. By rolling back climate policies introduced by the Biden administration, the President aims to lower energy costs and restore U.S. energy dominance. This includes reducing restrictions on domestic oil production, mining, and critical infrastructure projects.

In his executive orders, President Trump has also emphasized the importance of consumer choice. From lightbulbs to dishwashers, his policies aim to end government overreach in everyday American life, offering consumers freedom and affordability.

The administration’s energy policy includes withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord and halting leasing to wind farms, which the President claims degrade natural landscapes and fail to meet energy demands effectively.

Cultural Restoration and Protecting American Values

President Trump’s agenda extends to reinforcing traditional American values. He has announced initiatives to preserve historical landmarks, protect women’s rights from what he terms “radical gender ideology,” and promote biological realities in public policy. These measures are part of his broader vision to foster a sense of national pride and unity.

Looking Ahead

The President’s sweeping reforms and actions signal a transformative era in American governance. While critics argue that these policies represent a sharp shift from the previous administration, supporters laud them as necessary steps to restore national security, economic stability, and cultural integrity.

As President Trump continues to visit states affected by crises and implement new policies through executive orders, his administration aims to solidify its legacy as one of decisive action and unyielding commitment to the American people.

The White House. (2025, January). President Trump’s America First priorities. Retrieved from https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/2025/01/president-trumps-america-first-priorities/

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Our Stories

Thoughts on the Trip to D.C.

This January, Reid and I had the distinct honor of traveling to Washington, D.C., to attend the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump. While we were not in the front row, we were fortunate to find ourselves right in the midst of the action, surrounded by thousands of passionate individuals, all gathered to witness a defining moment in American history.

From the moment we arrived, the energy in the air was palpable. The streets of D.C. were lined with people from across the country, each contributing to the sense of occasion and excitement. As we made our way to the National Mall, the magnitude of the event began to truly sink in—this was more than just a political transition; it was a historic gathering, where citizens from all walks of life came together to be part of something larger than themselves.

Throughout the day, Reid and I made it our mission to capture as much of the event as possible. The crowd’s enthusiasm, the grandeur of the ceremony, and the historic speeches all offered a wealth of content that we were eager to share. From candid shots of the diverse crowd to the impressive procession, we documented the event from a variety of perspectives, hoping to convey the significance of the day not just through images, but through the emotions and spirit of the occasion.

The inauguration itself was a spectacular sight. The excitement in the air was contagious, with moments of anticipation and cheers that reverberated across the Mall. We had the opportunity to witness firsthand the power of democracy in action, as millions gathered to support the peaceful transfer of power, something that remains a cornerstone of American ideals. The atmosphere was charged with history, and every step we took through the crowds felt like we were walking through a living narrative.

As we return home and begin to review the content we captured, we are filled with a sense of gratitude and pride. The images and videos we took serve as a visual representation of the energy and optimism that permeated the event. We are excited to share this unique experience with our audience and encourage them to interact with the content, contributing their own perspectives and memories of that unforgettable day.

Our trip to D.C. was more than just an opportunity to witness a political event—it was a chance to be a part of something truly historic. The privilege of standing shoulder to shoulder with so many others, all there to witness a moment that will be remembered for years to come, is something that Reid and I will carry with us for a lifetime.