It all started with Dave Ramsey

I stumbled upon Dave Ramsey’s radio show almost 10 years ago. From the first listen, I was hooked! He handed out actionable information about personal finance like it was candy! From there, I tuned in regularly and, in time, read his books and listened to the CD’s that made up Financial Peace University. Always learning something new, I couldn’t get enough!

My debt-free journey started with his much-touted debt-snowball method and cash envelope system. When I began coaching, I leaned heavily on his wisdom because, despite the depths of a caller’s desperation, he always offered a legitimate first step and never strayed from his beliefs or providing hard truths. That takes a lot of strength.  You may not like what he has to say, but you can’t deny he cares.

That’s the kind of person I strive to be. I owe that to myself but, more importantly, to my clients.

So, to say that I was excited to attend a live event kicking off Financial Peace University would be an understatement.

He delivered an inspiring and motivating speech, then made himself available to anyone wanting to say hello. Waiting our turn, Scott asked what I was going to say, and I was confident I had it all together.

Now, I’m standing in front of a personal finance icon; a man who’s changed millions of lives; the leader of the financial freedom movement, and all I could say was “Blahhhhhhh!” At least, that’s what it sounded like in my head. Actually, I was able to utter something to the effect of “It’s an honor to meet you. Will you sign my book?” What I do know, is it’s not what I planned on saying.

What I should have said was, “Thank you. Thank you for all you’ve taught me, thank you for making it your life’s work to help others dig out of the deepest financial holes, and inspiring me to do the same. Thank you for providing a toolbox full of strategies, ideas and motivation that provide everyone, regardless of income or financial status, the opportunity to take control of their lives and achieve financial freedom.”

It was an experience I’ll never forget…but someday I hope for a second chance to make a better first impression!