Filmmaker Behind International Documentary Movie Interviews UNC Finance Professor

To date, we have completed approximately 45 of the 100+ total interviews we anticipate for the filming of our new documentary movie exposing the state of financial literacy (illiteracy) in America that also explores what role the school system should play in teaching basic financial education students.

One of our interviews in December was with Finance Professor, Dr. Christine McClatchey, at the University of Northern Colorado, who shared lots of shocking statistics and stories, but also told us about a new pilot program they are implementing to teach basic financial literacy to freshmen college students -- a very needed (and popular) service.

The UNC school newspaper wrote this article about our interview with Dr. McClatchey. The Greeley Tribune also wrote this article the next day.

2008 California Summit on Financial Literacy - CalCPA and California Jump$tart Coalition

I found this to be very ironic, so I wanted to share. This is a short video of the 2008 "Financial Literacy Summit" hosted by the California Society of CPA's and California Jump$tart. I commend them for putting on this event, and I think that most viewers will agree this clip is great exposure for the financial literacy cause in general, as well as their specific event (notice their logo in the background of EVERY interview). Smart folks!

However, when we recently wanted to film something similar at the Larimer County Financial Literacy Summit (held on 12/8 in Colorado), they tried to tell us "no" because it would be "too disruptive" and they were opposed to “adversarial” words like "shocking" in our press release when describing the state of financial literacy in this country (how else would you describe it?). Because it was a public event, we finally got limited access to film the individual interviews we wanted in a back room, but I really wish we could have actually covered the "event" in a manner like this video for inclusion in our documentary movie, as well as for promotion purposes of the event in the future. Not exactly PR geniuses…

Businessmen Examine Financial Literacy

The Coloradoan newspaper just wrote a nice article about our documentary film project exposing the state of financial literacy in America, along with the solution. Click here to read the article on their website. For updates about the movie: www.SecretsOfMoneyMovie.com.

Explanation of Yield Spread Premiums on Home Mortgages

We just completed our 3rd week of filming (40+ interviews) for the documentary movie, "The Secrets of Money". We recently interviewed college finance professor Christine McClatchey, and after we were done she gave one of the best explanations (stories) I have ever heard of "Yield Spread Premiums" on home mortgages, which I was able to capture with my new handheld FlipCam. More clips and a trailer will be posted soon on our movie website!

NCBR: 'Financial Literacy -- the Movie'

The Northern Colorado Business Report published a nice article in "the Eye" section describing our new documentary film which is currently in production. We are traveling the country coast-to-coast over the next 3 months asking the question: "Why don't schools require financial literacy classes?" and the responses so far have be stunning, to say the least. Check out our movie website at www.SecretsOfMoneyMovie.com for more details about the project.

Channel 2 News TV Interview - Saving vs. Spending

Interview on Channel 2 News in Denver talking about holiday saving vs. spending. The tough economy means "back to basics" for consumers!

GOOD NEWS: Larimer County now Welcoming Us!

I am pleased to announce that the Colorado State University (CSU) Extension Office (Larimer County) has changed their position on on this matter and are now offering to provide us access to their "Financial Literacy Summit" on Monday (12/8). We received the email below on Wednesday to formalize this offer:

Hi Braun,

It was good to meet you yesterday at the Larimer County Extension office.

I’m hoping you still have the summit on your calendar for Monday, Dec. 8.

Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Your participation will include the morning and afternoon session, as well as lunch.

The Estes Park room, adjacent to the session area, has been set aside for media interviews, which can take place during the lunch hour (noon-12:50) and is also available after wrap-up at 4:30, until about 6:00 p.m. if you need the extra time.

We will plan on having lunch available for your videographer as well.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any additional questions.

Thanks so much.

-Joanne

Joanne Littlefield, MMC
Interim Assistant Director-Community Relations
Front Range
Communications Coordinator
Colorado State University Extension
Joanne.Littlefield@colostate.edu
970-491-4640 (office)
970-980-5880 (cell)
www.ext.colostate.edu

UPDATE: Larimer County Financial Literacy Summit

In response to the critical letter I recently sent to the Larimer County Commissioners (see previous blog post) regarding the "cold shoulder" I got when asking to be involved with their upcoming (and taxpayer funded) "Financial Literacy Summit" being held in my own community, Frank Lancaster, the county manager sent me back a very nice letter addressing some of my concerns.

While I am very appreciative of his time and input, Mr. Lancaster also automatically assumed my desired involvement to include the blatant selling of books at the event, which was never my intention (nor have I ever done at any similar events). However, he did not address my chief concern, which is being denied media access to cover the event for our documentary movie about the state of financial literacy (illiteracy), currently in production. It seems as though a double standard exists insofar as they have given interviews to the local newspaper begging the question: Why are we not being given equal access? Click here to see my response letter to Mr. Lancaster, which was sent yesterday.

You may have heard me talking about this controversy last Monday on the local KCOL-600 Morning Show, and I have received queries from several investigative journalists who are closely watching how this event unfolds, considering the use of public funds. I appreciate the hundreds of supportive emails I have received regarding this situation and will continue to keep everyone advised. In the meantime, feel free to send your letters to editors of the various local papers and/or share your concerns in writing with the county commissioners and CSU.

Larimer County Gives Braun "Cold Shoulder" for Upcoming Financial Literacy Summit

Larimer County, Colorado (where I am based) recently authorized the allocation of approximately $19,000 in public funds to host a Financial Literacy Summit in December to bring together various community resources. As a passionate advocate of this important cause, I reached out to offer my assistance, research and resources, only to get the cold shoulder. Check it out:

Click Here to Read my E-Mail Correspondence with Larimer County

Click Here to Read my Letter to the Larimer County Commissioners

I forwarded this to about 100 other leaders in the community, and here is a just a sample of the over 75 responses I have received so far:

"Good, well-written, and fair response. This is the way a lot of higher-education (and secondary K-12 education acts). It's the ivory tower and again: "Once you eliminate profit as a motive, all that's left is turf."
- Local Attorney

"I have read this correspondence twice, and the content of Ms. Kubin's correspondence angers me and saddens me all at the same time. It upsets me that she obviously did not take the time to learn about you, and to fully understand how beneficial your partnership would be. I feel like she quickly threw the "vendor" label on you, and then dismissed you. It is so frustrating that FOX News will have you come to NYC to learn from you, but folks in our own backyard ignore a wonderful opportunity."
- Local Educator

"This is very disappointing to read. What a fantastic opportunity Larimer County missed! Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident."
- Local Business Leader

"I liked your response. What a dork. But don't you know, that's the idiocy and unfairness we are facing from much of the public sector who is supposed to be looking out for us."
- Local Rancher

"Honestly, it's unfortunate they did not want you to participate. If they had understood your positive impact on Northern Colorado then they certainly would have rethought their decisions. It's a shame too - you weren't making a profit off of the event, you were merely wishing to put it in your documentary; that would only had enhanced the image of Larimer County as a county that is concerned with financial literacy."
- Local College Student

What do you think?

Is Financial Illiteracy Tantamount to Child Abuse?

Below is another op-ed article which was recently published by the following papers:

San Gabriel Valley Tribune (11/9/08)
Nashua Telegraph (11/9/08)

We teach our children to walk and speak, to brush their teeth and hair, and to not talk to strangers, so why aren’t we teaching them about money management and financial wellness?

We deal with money in our everyday lives. Starting at a young age, more so now than ever before, we are exposed to the various aspects of money management and fiscal tools. But, while the nation places an importance on teaching the youth of America about mathematics, science and even sexual health, we neglect to prepare our children for the inevitable matter of personal finance.

Child abuse comes in many forms. Neglect is a failure to provide for a child’s physical needs. Emotional abuse is any behavior that interferes with a child’s mental health or social development. How is not teaching your child about at least the basics necessary to lead a financially healthy adult life not abuse, too?

Financial illiteracy among all Americans is truly reaching epidemic proportions, but it is most prevalent among the young – the generation of tomorrow. The results from a 2008 survey conducted by the Jump$tart Coalition – a financial literacy advocacy group for students ­– show how dire the situation has become. More than 6,500 high school seniors took the group’s 31-question survey and, in general, could only correctly answer 48.3 percent of the questions. That’s down from the 2006 survey when the mean score was 52.4 percent.

Likewise, the average score at http://www.financialliteracyquiz.com/ for participants less than 18 years of age is 29.8 percent. The scores tend to increase with age, perhaps due to experience, but the overall score average score on the quiz is only 53 percent.

Perhaps likening financial illiteracy to child abuse feels like a stretch, but let’s think about the consequences. A child who is neglected is denied adequate supervision, shelter, food, clothing, medical care and/or hygiene. Each of these elements is essential to leading a decent life and also provides the child with a roadmap for adulthood. Will a neglected child grow to be a neglectful parent? Where would he or she learn otherwise?

I’m sure that there are many neglected children that have grown to be responsible adults and loving parents – after all, things like food and shelter are really common sense. But children who do not learn about things like savings and credit are not likely to magically stumble upon the information as they grow up. Instead, they will learn the hard way, through trial and error, sullying their credit and overall financial well being along the way.

Consider the millions of Americans who have lost or are loosing their homes. Or the increasing number of individuals who turn to payday loans — carrying interest rates of up to 400 percent — because they cannot budget for their living expenses. If as children these individuals were given basic guidance in money matters perhaps some of these hardships could be avoided.

Financial illiteracy can be debilitating. Money might not be everything, but fiscal responsibility is key to the American dream – a house, a happy family, a stable job. Beyond that, knowing the basics of personal finance is paramount to survival in an ever-more-complex environment. As a nation, we need to provide the next generation with the financial basics just as we provide them with other necessities of life. To not do so is misguided and even cruel.

CRM Magazine: The Boomer Boom

I was recently interviewed for the November issue of CRM Magazine to discuss "The Boomer Boom" in America and what it means from an economic perspective. Click here to read the article online or click here to read the scanned .PDF version.

Baby Boomers are those born between 1946 and 1964 (now age 44 to 62), and their biggest financial concern is outliving their savings. From a political perspective, their biggest concern is the economy and how that relates to Social Security and Medicare. Read the article for more interesting and in-depth details!

The "BoomerCafe" blog also posted the article.

Why the Economic Crisis is a Good Thing

Here is a recent op-ed article I just submitted talking about how we should use the current economic situation as a "wake up call" to promote better financial literacy education:

In case you’ve been living under a rock or in a cave, we are currently in the midst of a widespread financial crisis and looming recession. But before lapsing into a coma induced by a glimpse at your most recent 401(k) statement, realize that there may be a silver lining in this ever-darkening cloud, at least for those who choose to notice it.

The roiling financial markets might prove to be the “slap in the face” that consumers and educators need to realize the importance of teaching financial literacy in the school system. Shockingly, only three states currently require a semester-long course devoted to personal finance as a high school graduation requirement. The results from a 2008 survey conducted by the Jump$tart Coalition – a financial literacy advocacy group for students ¬– prove that more is needed. More than 6,500 high school seniors took the group’s 31-question survey and, in general, could only correctly answer 48.3 percent of the questions. That’s down from the 2006 survey when the mean score was 52.4 percent.

It’s human nature to be reactionary. We’re not clairvoyants – well, most of us aren’t – and cannot be expected to predict when disaster will strike. But in many cases, such as in the current financial crisis, the fissures that lead to mass failure aren’t impossible to read and are a long time in forming.

Now, fingers are flying, quick to place the blame for worldwide economic ruin as far from themselves as possible – Washington, Wall Street, real estate brokers, mortgage lenders, and the regulators who were charged with supervising them all. The argument over whether mortgage lenders or the home buyers are responsible for using the poor financial instruments that have played a major role in tens of thousands of foreclosures as well as the fall of some of the nation’s largest companies may never be settled.

The truth is, we are all responsible. Consumers must accept personal responsibility and cannot count on anyone else to take care of their financial health as well as themselves. Whether devious or not, real estate agents, mortgage lenders, car dealers, credit card companies and the like have a financial interest in making the deal, regardless of whether the deal is the right for the individual. There is certainly no direct financial alignment of interest between the two parties.

The mindset that we can live beyond our means is an underlying theme to the current crisis. Consumer acceptance of fiscal limits has become nearly non-existent. Why would you limit your spending power when it’s so easy to extend your credit? During the past decade, financial instruments have become exceedingly complex, but at the same time easier to access.

While most high school or college students are receiving their first credit card solicitations, a majority of them don’t even understand how finance charges will accrue. Only 48 percent of the Jump$tart survey participants were able to point out that a credit card holder who only pays the minimum amount on monthly card balances will pay more in annual finance charges than a card holder who pays the balance in full. Financially uninformed students soon become financially unaware adults.

According to recent survey results from www.FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com, only 40 percent of participants knew that their liability for credit card fraud is limited to $50. The Web site’s 50-question multiple-choice quiz covers such topics as credit and banking; real estate and mortgages; car buying; taxes and insurance; and saving for the future. Sadly, the average adult quiz taker scores just 53%, similar to the Jump$tart survey administered to students.

If we can’t teach students about the mechanisms that dictate credit financing, how can we expect them to decipher the terms of an adjustable rate mortgage or the understand the consequences of a financing plan that begins with the borrower owing 110 percent the value of the home?

While legislators and regulators are discussing how the financial markets can avoid further stress, parents, educators, business leaders and the general public should be addressing how the future generations can avoid the mistakes of their predecessors. Every state should have dedicated financial education classes as a required part of its K-12 curriculum. There is no excuse for lack of knowledge of this practical life skill in a subject that impacts our lives everyday. We require students to study trigonometry and physics, which a vast majority of them will never use outside of the classroom. So why not arm them with at least the basics of leading a financially secure life?

We do not need to waste time fretting over the current state of the financial markets. No amount of worry will soothe the system. Instead, we need to wake up and smell the opportunity that this crisis presents — an opportunity to demand that the future will be one of financial enlightenment rather than fiscal ignorance Regardless of the economic climate in the future, the best defense is a financially educated consumer.

FOX-31 TV - Good Day Colorado

Here is my recent TV appearance on FOX-31 in Denver to talk about Financial Literacy, along with giving some tips for consumers. They are scheduled to have me back on Monday, November 3rd, so please be sure to tune in.

KWGN-TV - Channel 2 - Morning News

I was interviewed on KWGN-TV - Channel 2 Morning News in Denver to talk about what consumers can do to "Stop Spending and Start Saving," as well as my overall financial literacy initiative. Check it out on YouTube!

Hawaii Ending Socialized Health Care after 7 Months

After only 7 months, Hawaii is ending "universal" health care, after finally figuring out that the people who were previously paying for it decided to get it for free instead (duh!). What do you think would happen if we tried to implement socialized health care in the continental US? Click here to read the AP article.

Jump$tart: Financial Education Requirements by State

My friends at the Jump$tart Coalition have prepared this map showing the financial education requirements in high school by state. Presently, ONLY 3 STATES require a semester long financial literacy class... only 47 more to go (my mission...). Click here for details by state.

CNN Radio: Teaching Kids Financial Literacy

On Tuesday, October 14th, at approximately 9:00 am (Eastern), Braun Mincher will be interviewed on CNN Radio (2,000 radio affiliates nationwide!) about his plans for teaching kids financial literacy. Please plan to tune in to the interview on your local station! Click here for a listing of stations nationwide. CNN Radio can be heard on Sirius channel 132 or XM channel 122.

Denver FOX 31: Everyday Savings Tips

On Tuesday, October 14th (probably during the 9 am hour), Braun Mincher will be a live TV guest on KDVR-31 in Denver to talk about financial literacy and everyday savings tips for consumers. Be sure to tune in or click here for more information. Braun is also scheduled for a return appearance on Monday, November 3rd.

CW-11 NYC: Avoiding Financial Scams

When I was recently in New York City, I taped this TV segment for CW-11 Morning News to talk about how consumers can avoid being victims of financial scams. Check it out:

http://weblogs.cw11.com/news/local/morningnews/blogs/2008/10/avoid_financial_scams.html

Business in Vancouver

The Business in Vancouver newspaper just published an article about the financial crisis in North America where I was interviewed and quoted:

http://www.bivinteractive.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1178&Itemid=47

A Primer on Sub-Prime Mortgages & CDO's

Several people have forwarded me this link, so I thought that I would share it with everyone. Basically, this PowerPoint presentation (complete with stick figures!) does a good job of explaining the mortgage mess in simple terms we can all understand. Let's just hope we do not let anything like this ever happen again. Here it is:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/2190705/CDO-Powerpoint-SubPrime-Primer

FOX Business Channel: Financial Illiteracy?

FOX Business Channel had me on again this week when I was in NYC to talk about why America needs financial literacy classes in every school. Obviously, the "breaking news" of the week has been the ridiculous media frenzy over the "Rescue Bill." Instead, I tell people to focus on what YOU can actually control (i.e. how much you save and how much you spend). Check out the video!

10-Day Flying Trip Across the US

I just got back from my 10-day flying trip across the US! I met lots of people and did a ton of business, but it is good to be back at home in Colorado (for at least a few days...). I covered 3,287 miles and logged 28.7 hours of flight time in my Cessna 182.

3rd Quarter 2008 – Update & Financial Literacy Newsletter

Greetings from New York City, where I arrived yesterday as part of my 10-day flying tour across the country!

Stops along the way have so far included the states of Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia. I am now in NYC for some more TV and media appearances this week, relating to the need for better financial literacy of consumers, in the wake of the current economic situation (see below for details).

Here is an update and summary of my current happenings and upcoming activities:

Financial Literacy Initiative
As you may already know, I am working hard to bring a new awareness to the Financial Illiteracy Epidemic that is sweeping the nation, with the ultimate goal being to get financial education classes mandated as a high school graduation requirement nationwide (sadly, only a handful of states presently have such a requirement). We need to look no further than the daily news headlines to see why this is such a timely topic and so important to integrate into our school curriculum.

Press Exposure
Since engaging an outside PR firm over the summer, I have been fortunate that their efforts have helped me to garner additional exposure for my book and overall financial literacy initiative. Recently, I was quoted in the Atlanta Journal Constitution alongside President George W. Bush and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke in a feature article pertaining to financial literacy.

I also recently wrote an op-ed article entitled "Why America Needs Financial Literacy in Every School," which was published by numerous newspapers and online blogs, including the New York Daily News, The Christian Science Monitor, The Austin Statesman, The Eureka Reporter and The Birmingham News. Additionally, the Richmond Times-Dispatch interviewed me for an article on credit cards and Woman's Day Magazine quoted me in an article on "10 Things Every College Kid Should Know." Please visit my blog for more details and frequent updates.

Media Interviews
In late July, I was again interviewed live on the Fox Business News Channel to talk about how Starbucks closing of 600 stores may be an economic indicator of consumers' reduction in spending. I am now back in New York City for several additional live TV appearances this week:

FOX Business News (FBN)
Monday, September 29, 2008
Approximate Air Time: 2:30 pm (Eastern)

Morning News - New York's CW-11 / WPIX Television
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Approximate Air Time: 10:00 am (Eastern)

I hope that you can tune into these interviews, but they will also be posted on our website and YouTube with the others shortly afterwards. As always, you can visit the Events page of my website for the current schedule of my happenings.

Speaking & Book Signing Events
I was honored and humbled recently when I was asked to be the keynote speaker for the annual Bixpo trade show in mid-September, following the likes of Donald Trump and Rudy Giuliani who had filled this role in previous years. I then completed a book signing at the local Barnes & Noble store and have another one scheduled at Sign With Prestige in Fort Collins, Colorado on Saturday, November 29th, just after Thanksgiving. Please stop by to say hello if you are in the area! Finally, I am looking forward to my upcoming keynote presentation for the Delta Sigma Pi conference being held in Denver in mid-October.

FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com
Have you taken the quiz yet? I created this 50-question and multiple-choice quiz as a way for people to test their level of financial literacy. It covers such topics as Credit and Banking, Real Estate and Mortgages, Car Buying, Taxes, Saving for the Future and simple Estate Planning (coincidently, the same things I discuss in my book!). Sadly, less than 10% of the visitors are able to pass with a score of 75% or better on this quiz, and the average score hovers at about 53%. Click here to try the quiz for yourself, or pass this on to a friend if you have already taken it.

Closing
I am continuing to work on some new and exciting projects and look forward to sharing the details with you in a future update. In the meantime, I greatly welcome your ongoing feedback and testimonials to post on our website. As always, thank you for your continued interest in financial literacy and your support of my efforts. Please keep talking with students, parents, teachers, school administrators, friends, legislators and others about the importance of this topic, and together we will make a difference!

Warmest Regards,

Braun Mincher, Author
The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy

Available at www.BraunMincher.com and from booksellers nationwide.
(ISBN-13: 978-0-9797003-0-9)

Please join Braun on Facebook and LinkedIn!

Richmond Times-Dispatch: Credit Cards Likely to Change

The Richmond Times-Dispatch just published excerpts of an interview with me relating to some surprising changes coming in the credit card industry and the impact that it will directly have on consumers like you and me. Click here to be linked with the article on their website.

Mincher: Why America needs financial literacy in every school

Considering that I was the kid who ended up in remedial English, it is kind of ironic (poetic justice) to see that multiple newspapers across the U.S. published the recent op-ed article I wrote regarding the need for financial literacy classes in every school. Check them out:

• Christian Science Monitor
• Austin Statesman
• The Eureka Reporter
• The Birmingham News
• New York Daily News
• Deseret News
• Seattle Post Intelligencer
• Alexandria Town Talk
• Florida Sun-Sentinel
• Chicago Herald News

Many of the blogs have also picked it up:

• Yahoo! News
• The Consumerist (See the comments)
• Jenius Jots
• Stock Market One
• Finance Blog

La contracción del crédito se agudiza

Habla Español? If so, check out this article in La Opinión who interviewed me regarding the current credit crunch and need for financial literacy of consumers:

http://www.impre.com/laopinion/negocios/2008/9/20/la-contraccion-del-credito-se--82235-1.html

If you want to see what it says in English, copy the text and then go here for the free online translator.

La Opinión is the leading Spanish-language daily newspaper in the U.S. with an audited circulation of 125,624 copies, which is sold throughout the five-county Southern California area and reaches over 495,000 readers everyday.

Personal Excellence Magazine: Secrets of Money

Check out the upcoming October issue of Personal Excellence Magazine for the article I wrote on Page 10: Secrets of Money -- Become Financially Literate.

Bixpo Just Around the Corner!

The annual Bixpo trade show in northern Colorado will take place at "The Ranch" (Budweiser Events Center) on Wednesday, September 17th and Thursday September 18th.

I am honored to be the opening keynote speaker at the "40 under 40" kickoff awards luncheon which honors the top young business leaders in the region. Click here to see the recent article in the Northern Colorado Business Report with details.

BusinessWeek Article

I was just quoted extensively in a BusinessWeek article called "When Should You Quit Your Day Job?" Click here to check it out online.

Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Spotlight on Financial Literacy

Check this out -- I was quoted today in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution along with President George Bush and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke:

http://www.ajc.com/search/content/opinion/stories/2008/08/17/lend.html

Not bad company to be quoted with!

Woman's Day: 10 Things Every College Kid Should Know

I just got quoted in Woman's Day magazine for an article entitled "10 Things Every College Should Know." Check out the "How to Manage Credit" section here.

Millionaire Mommy Next Door… Literally!

The Millionaire Next Door book is one of my all time favorites on personal finance. It objectively contrasts the financial well being of a surgeon and a plumber. On the surface, people would incorrectly assume that the surgeon had more financial resources, but in reality, it was the self-employed plumber who was more financially sound because he exercised frugality, lived within his means and was not trying to impress anyone with his “stuff.” The authors of the book discovered that true millionaires live well below what they could technically afford – my favorite quote from one of the millionaires they interviewed, after offering him an expensive beverage: “I drink two kinds of beer – Bud Light and Free.” I like that.

Recently, I had the good fortune to meet a real “Millionaire Mommy Next Door” with a similar story, who actually lives near me in Northern Colorado. Before becoming the mother of an adorable girl, she was a dog groomer and her husband is – guess what – a plumber (just like in the book!). Neither of these are notoriously high paying professions, but their financial success just goes to prove that anyone who is financially literate and follows some simple steps can achieve financial freedom, allowing them to live the life they want.

Millionaire Mommy Next Door has actually created a blog to “share her recipe for success, happiness and financial freedom,” which also got her an appearance last year on the Montel TV Show (she also has a book deal in the works). Her current articles cover their move to being renters in a “resort style” community, a strategy that will actually save an additional $4,000 per year – very smart! I like her story and just wish that more people would heed her advice. Check out her blog to learn more:

http://millionairemommynextdoor.blogspot.com/

LIVE National TV Interview on FOX Business Network

I was invited back again for a 3rd time to be a live TV guest on the FOX Business Network, to discuss how consumer finances and the state of the economy are causing companies like Starbucks and some restaurant chains to to close hundreds of locations.

Thanks to everyone for your continued support and interest in my Financial Literacy Project!

Sincerely,

Braun Mincher, Author
The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy
http://www.FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com

Available from Booksellers Nationwide!

Barnes & Noble Book Signing

Thank you to everyone who came out for my book signing this afternoon at the Barnes & Noble store in Fort Collins. It was great to see you all and I am truly appreciative of your continued support. Check out the Events page on my website for a schedule of upcoming book signings in your area.

Financial Literacy Update & Newsletter

Hello and greetings from rainy Colorado! I don't know about you, but I have really been enjoying the nice weather recently (excluding today...) and am looking forward to summer. After traveling extensively the past few months to further my nationwide Financial Literacy initiative, I am happy to be spending the month of June back at home (and sleeping in my own bed). In just reviewing my calendar, I was reminded that I have had events in over 25 cities since the beginning of the year, including Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas, New York, Washington, DC, South Florida, and others.

My recent book release is going VERY well, and much of my travel has been for the National Book Tour. Luckily, I will get a brief break from travel over the summer, but am already getting booked for a lot of speaking events again in the fall, which I am really looking forward to. This is a great time for me to catch up and plan the next phase of my Financial Literacy Awareness Project.

Here is an update of my current happenings and upcoming activities:

Book Expo America - Los Angeles
We just got back from a very productive week in LA for Book Expo 2008. This is "the" industry event of the year and typically draws over 30,000 authors, publishers, agents and other exhibitors. We had a booth in the middle of it all and enjoyed meeting lots of new people and making good contacts for the future. Go to my BLOG to see my daily notes and pictures from BEA.

Barnes & Noble Book Signing - This Saturday (6/7)
Come say hello this Saturday, June 7th, at the Barnes & Noble Store in south Fort Collins, where I will be signing books from 2 pm to 3 pm. If you are not able to make it this Saturday, then check out my Events page to see when I will next be in your area.

National Media Interviews
In order to bring a new awareness to the Financial Illiteracy Epidemic sweeping the nation, I have been conducting numerous radio and TV interviews across the country. Recent TV appearances have included Neil Cavuto and FOX Business, and you can click here to see the videos. To see what is scheduled in the future, you can always check the Events or Press & Media pages on my website.

Financial Literacy Day on Capitol Hill
In conjunction with April being "Financial Literacy Month," I participated in an event on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC with approximately 100 others who share the same passion for this cause. For details and pictures, please visit my BLOG.

Comments Submitted to President's Financial Literacy Council
The President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy was created on January 22, 2008 by President George W. Bush. The Council's purpose is to help keep America competitive and assist the American people in understanding and addressing financial matters. The 16-member council is headed by financial icon Charles Schwab.

The council recently issued a request for public comments regarding the state of financial literacy in the United States and proposed solutions to improve it. As a passionate advocate of financial literacy at all levels, I welcomed the opportunity to provide my "2-cents." Click here to see a copy of the 5-page "white paper" I provided with my thoughts and suggestions on the topic.

Book Reviews & Awards
The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy has recently received some more kudos with a very positive recommendation from Midwest Book Review and being named as a finalist for the Indie Book Award.

Soliciting Your Testimonials
One of the most fulfilling parts of this project is hearing from people like you about the importance of financial literacy and your feedback on my book. If you enjoyed reading the book and feel it would be beneficial to others, I would welcome you to email us your Testimonial and/or for you to write a review on Amazon, or another online BLOG, for others to see. I know that this request takes time to complete and thank you in advance for your help and support.

Summary & Closing
As you may already know, northern Colorado was devastated by a large tornado 2 weeks ago today. Both the towns of Windsor (where my parents live) and Wellington (where I live) were in its path. Luckily, we are all OK and only sustained minor property damage and several days without power, but others in our community were not so fortunate. Thank you to everyone for your phone calls and outpouring of support; it has been very touching. If you want to help the tornado victims, please consider making a donation to the Red Cross or Salvation Army.

I cannot tell you how much I appreciate all of the continued support for my nationwide Financial Literacy Project and book release - I could not do any of this without your help! Please be sure to frequently visit my website and BLOG for timely updates. As always, your feedback and suggestions are welcome. I hope to see you soon at an upcoming Event!

Sincerely,

Braun Mincher, Author
The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy

Available at www.BraunMincher.com and from booksellers nationwide.

(ISBN-13: 978-0-9797003-0-9)

Book Expo America - Day #3 (It's Over!)

Well, BEA 2008 has come to a close. It was a great show and we made LOTS of contacts and new friends. I have now been in LA for a week and am ready to head back home. Today was pretty quiet and uneventful, with the exception of United cancelling our flight back to Denver from LAX due to "mechanical reasons" (or the fact that they did not sell enough tickets...). Not impressed, considering the same thing happened on the way out (one of the baggage handlers RAMMED the loading tug into the plane as we are loading). So, I am now at the John Wayne airport in Orange County for an alternate flight... at least I will be home tonight. Thanks to everyone for coming out to see us at BEA! This week will be filled with follow-up, but I promise more updates soon! Come see me at the Barnes & Noble book signing in Fort Collins next Saturday (6/7)!

Book Expo America - Day #2

Well, day 2 is now over... just tomorrow and then back to the book tour. Today was filled with lots more meeting -- publishers, agents, publicists, authors, etc. When grabbing a coffee this morning at the Starbucks in the LA Convention Center, I found myself next to Alec Baldwin who was at BEA to promote his forthcoming book on "parenting" (I did not see his daughter with him...). Not sure of the details, but somehow there was a labor dispute this afternoon and all of the union food workers walked off the job for a couple of hours. Of course, it happened right over the lunch hour. Check back tomorrow for the final BEA wrap up from sunny Los Angeles.

Book Expo in LA - Day #1

Well, the first day of BEA went great (except for the fact that my feet are killing me -- I will be wearing my Asics tomorrow, which I am sure is some sort of a massive fashion faux pas...). We met LOTS of people and made some great contacts. Looking forward to more of the same tomorrow... 2 days left to impress! Its funny how people who do not even know me say of the strangest things... here are my top 3 for the day which I wanted to share:

1. Do you give your books away free?

2. Your story is not believable (from an LA reviewer). Yes, I completely fabricated my resume.... right.

3. My Favorite: You look a lot like the guy on the cover
of that book! (3 times!)

If you are at BEA, please come see us in booth #752!

Book Expo America - Setup Day

Greetings from sunny LA! We have a booth at BEA this year to promote The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy. Although this is my first time at BEA, I have done a lot of trade shows in past, and I can say without a doubt, BEA is completely over the top... "huge" would be an understatement! The major publishers basically setup a complete bookstore in the LA Convention Center for the 3-day show. I just got back from our final booth setup (the show starts tomorrow), but check out the "behind the scenes" photos showing the madness. If you are also in town for BEA, please stop by booth #752 to say hello!

Indie Book Award Finalist

Yeah... another book award! I was just informed that The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy is a finalist for the 2008 Indie Book Award. After working so hard on this project, it is nice when others recognize the time and effort. Check it out: IndieBookAwards.com.

7 Tornadoes Hit Northern CO - We're OK

Well, it has certainly been an interesting day here in northern Colorado, but I am pleased to report that we are all OK. Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out with your phone calls and emails to check on us -- I am truly touched and appreciative of your sincere concern.

Just before lunch today, a large tornado touched down in the middle of Windsor, Colorado (where my parents live) and then the same tornado touched down a few minutes later near the Budweiser Brewery close to Wellington, Colorado, which is less than 1/2 mile from where I live. While we both sustained some minor property damage, both my parents' and my house made it through the storm relatively unscathed and most importantly without any injuries. However, since their house in Windsor is expected to be without power for 1-2 days, they are temporarily staying with us, so that is the best place to reach them if you need to make contact.

Unfortunately, not all of our neighbors and friends were as lucky as us (click here to see the path of the tornadoes). The majority of the damage occurred in nearby Windsor, CO, where over 100 injuries and 3 deaths were reported. I ask that you keep our community in your thoughts and prayers as we continue to assess the damage. Please click here to see details and video on 9 News, our local NBC affiliate.

President's Council on Financial Literacy - Request for Public Comments

The President’s Advisory Council on Financial Literacy was created on January 22, 2008 by President George W. Bush. The Council’s purpose is to help keep America competitive and assist the American people in understanding and addressing financial matters. The 16-member council is headed by financial icon Charles Schwab.

The council recently issued a request for public comments regarding the state of financial literacy in the United States and proposed solutions to improve it. Click here to see the request for comments in the Federal Register. As a passionate advocate of financial literacy at all levels, I welcomed the opportunity to provide my "2-cents." Click here to see a copy of the 5-page "white paper" I provided with my thoughts and suggestions on the topic. The deadline for submissions is May 23rd, so please send your comments along as well!

Broken Hand = Bad Typing for 6 Weeks

Due to a random injury this past weekend (let's just say it involved a go cart...), and thanks to my friend the radiologist, I just found out that my left hand is fractured in 2 places. Obviously, this now explains the swelling and pain over the past 3 days. Although I still have to see the my other friend, the orthopaedic surgeon, this likely means a splint/cast for about 6 weeks.

So... if any of you are wondering why I am slow in returning your emails, it is because I only have 1 "good" hand left to type and it is much slower this way. I am trying to find a good assistant who takes dictation and knows short-hand, so if you know of anyone, please let me know. My girlfriend says that I should not attempt humor, but if you can't laugh at this, you (I) will only cry. I am literally chained to my computer all day (it is part of being an author...), so I am not sure how to handle this small challenge, but please be understanding if my grammar slides for a few weeks due to my new hunt-and-peck typing.

Midwest Book Review - "Recommended..."

Yeah again!! The book just got another very complimentary review, this time from Midwest Book Review:

"People as a whole go through life woefully uneducated about how to manage their money. The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial literacy seeks to teach readers what they are never taught by their schools or their parents - basic financial literacy. Promoted as a guide that can help anyone manage their money better at any age, The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy lives up to that promise and more, filled with over four hundred pages of invaluable information. Recommended to almost everyone, but especially so to personal finance community library collections where it is sure to be a popular lend."

Click here to see the complete review on their website or click here to see it on Amazon.

Book Expo America (BEA) - Los Angeles

Book Expo America (BEA) is where it all happens from 5/30 through 6/1. Braun Mincher will be there; will you? If so, please come visit us in the PMA section, booth #752. Daily updates will be posted to the BLOG during BEA.

Financial Literacy Day on Capitol Hill in DC

I was recently invited to participate in the annual Financial Literacy Day on Capitol Hill and used it as an opportunity to meet with several of our key lawmakers in Washington, DC and to promote my nationwide Financial Literacy Initiative. The event was a great experience and it was also a lot of fun to network with other people who are so passionate about the same cause. Angela was fortunately able to join me on this trip and was a GREAT help as you can see in the photo below!

As consumers, we really need to do more to bring awareness to the need for better financial education at all age and income levels. While I do not think that we should rely on the government for this to happen, I do feel that the only way to counter this epidemic is to integrate such classes into the school system and make them a graduation requirement.

National Financial Literacy Challenge

An initiative recommended by the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Literacy and sponsored by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the National Financial Literacy Challenge measures the financial literacy of America’s high school students through a 35-question online test. Students will compete by taking the test April 28 through May 16.

Each of the top regional performers in the 2008 National Financial Literacy Challenge will win a $2,500 scholarship for use at the post-secondary institution of their choice. A $1,000 contribution in their name will additionally be given to the school or program that provided their money management education. Each winner and two guests will also enjoy a trip to Washington, D.C. The trip will include an awards banquet on June 17, official recognition at the June 18 meeting of the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Literacy, and special tours and activities.

The Challenge was developed by the U.S. Treasury in consultation with four non-governmental economists and the following education organizations: Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, Junior Achievement USA, The National Council on Economic Education, and the National Endowment for Financial Education

For Additional Information: http://flc.treas.gov/teacher.aspx

2nd Live TV Appearance on FOX Business

I was invited back to the FOX Business Network to discuss what consumers should do with their economic stimulus checks.

FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com Newspaper Article

The Coloradoan Newspaper just published a feature article focusing on my website, FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com. Click here to read the article online.

Financial Literacy & Education Summit 2008

I just "attended" (virtually) the 2nd Annual "Financial Literacy & Education Summit," which was hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago in conjunction with VISA. The opening remarks were provided by Ben Bernanke, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve who replaced Alan Greenspan. There were several great speakers and panelists for the event, and I could have not echoed their comments more as it relates to the need for better financial education in our society.

I think we all agree that there are numerous resources available to consumers (many being free or low cost), but the challenge is bring awareness to this topic (my personal goal), explaining why this type of education is important to them and how it directly relates to their everyday life for many years. The second part is to actually deliver the content to the people who need it, whether that be via the web, text messages, books, seminars, etc.

While individuals ultimately need to accept personal responsibility for their own education, getting the support (i.e. buy-in and not necessarily money) from the school system, employers and parents would be most helpful. Click here to visit the website where a replay of the Summit should be available soon.

Live FOX TV Interview with Neil Cavuto

I was recently a LIVE television guest with Neil Cavuto on the nationally televised FOX Business Channel broadcast from New York City. We talked about the importance of Financial Literacy at all age, income and education levels in an effort to bring better awareness to this nationwide epidemic, and I will likely appear on the show again in the future. Click here to see the interview posted on YouTube or visit the FOX Business Network website.

Q2-2008 – Update & Financial Literacy Newsletter

I hope that this update finds everyone doing well! Greetings from New York City, where I just arrived on Thursday for a variety of media interviews.

Since April is also unofficially "Financial Literacy Month" in the US, I have a lot of exciting news to share with you since my last update back in February. I am continuing strong with my nationwide initiative to bring awareness to the Financial Illiteracy Epidemic, which is ultimately the cause of the daily news headlines relating to the Foreclosure Crisis, Stock Market Meltdown, the Looming Recession, and the like. Studies continue to show that we as Americans are ignorant when it comes to the basic understanding of our own personal finances, and I am working diligently to reverse this trend at ALL age, income and education levels, and not just for the business or financial savvy.

My ultimate goal is for a semester-long Financial Literacy Class, taught by a qualified instructor, to become a high school graduation requirement, just like math, English, science, etc. (unfortunately, only 7 states currently have this type of a program in place). Almost unanimously, parents and business leaders are in favor of this plan, but due to a multitude of excuses, school officials have generally been resistant to making Financial Literacy Classes a priority. Until this happens, it is our responsibility for obtaining our own financial education.

Here is a summary of my current happenings and upcoming activities:

Nationwide Book & Speaking TourIn early January, I began traveling the country for my Nationwide Book & Speaking Tour, and I have already visited over 25 cities for book signings and other related events, with almost 15 more cities left before the tour concludes with my participation at Book Expo America (BEA) in Los Angeles at the end of May. Please check the website Events page to see if I will be coming soon to your area!

I am really enjoying the public speaking part of this project, as I have what I feel is a very powerful presentation on the importance of Financial Literacy (accompanied by some scary statistics!), and it allows me to connect with large groups of people simultaneously. If you are part of an association, professional organization, corporation or school (high school or college) and would like to have me come speak at one of your events, please contact me. For additional information about my speaking services, or to see what other meeting planners and attendees are saying, please visit www.BraunSpeaks.com.

Media Interviews & LIVE Fox TV Appearance
In order to get the word out about the importance of Financial Literacy, I have been conducting numerous radio and TV interviews across the country. Last night, I was a guest on the nationally syndicated "Joey Reynolds Show" which airs in over 80 markets across the country, talking about the importance of Financial Literacy. I was a Live TV guest with Neil Cavuto on the Fox Business Network on April 11, 2008.

Barnes & Noble Stores now Stocking my Book!
I am pleased to announce that the majority of the 700+ Barnes & Noble stores are now stocking The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy. So now, no matter where you live in the country, or where you may hear me speak, you can easily get a copy of this new release locally. This is a major accomplishment for me, considering that it is relatively unheard of for both a new and self-published author to get this type of distribution in place so quickly, and I am appreciative for the cooperation of the executives at Barnes & Noble who helped make this a reality. Thank you too for all of your patience and support while this agreement was being put in place.

FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com Releases Quarterly Results
As part of my nationwide initiative, I created FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com, so that visitors could test their own knowledge of this important subject and determine areas needing improvement. This 50-question and multiple-choice online quiz covers topics such as Credit & Banking, Real Estate (Buying, Selling, Leasing & Financing), Car Buying, Insurance, Taxes, Investing for the Future, and simple Estate Planning. While certainly not surprising, sadly the average quiz scores for the 1st quarter of 2008 were just 56.84%, yet a minimum score of 75% is required to "pass." Please click here to take the quiz yourself or click here for the full press release detailing the quarterly quiz results.

Financial Literacy Day on Capitol Hill
I am pleased to have been invited to participate in the upcoming "Financial Literacy Day on Capitol Hill," being held in Washington, DC on Monday, April 28th. Both the public and numerous lawmakers are invited, and I am planning to use my FinancialLiteracyQuiz.com website to bring awareness to the need for better financial education across the country.

Book Awards
I am now an award-winning author! The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy recently earned a 3rd place for the EVVY Award in the Business & Finance category, issued by the Colorado Independent Publishers Association (CIPA). The book is also a candidate for the national "Benjamin Franklin Award" which is sponsored by the Publishers Marketing Association (PMA), and winners will be announced at Book Expo America (BEA) in Los Angeles at the end of May.

Financial Literacy Book Camps
I am currently working with some other experts in the field on the development of a Financial Literacy Boot Camp (www.FinancialLiteracyBootCamp.com) which will provide comprehensive and accelerated financial education classes multiple times per year lasting 2-5 days each, and may start as early as this fall. Insofar as the details of this program are still being worked out, we would greatly welcome any input or suggestions on how to make these classes as successful as possible.

Delta Sigma Pi Initiation
As a national business fraternity founded in 1907 with more than 200,000 members, I was humbled when they recently asked me to be one of their honorary initiates for 2008. It was a great experience to participate in the very traditional initiation ceremony at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC), which was attended by the local pledge class, numerous alumni and the associate director who traveled out from the home office in Ohio. I now know the secret handshake and password, but have been sworn to secrecy! I look forward to keeping in touch with my new "brothers" from Delta Sigma Pi across the country!

Summary & Closing
Thank you again to everyone for your ongoing support of my nationwide Financial Literacy Project - I could not do any of this without your help! Please be sure to frequently visit my website and BLOG for timely updates. As always, your feedback and suggestions are welcome. I hope to see you soon at an upcoming Event!

Warmest Regards,

Braun Mincher, Author/Speaker
The Secrets of Money: A Guide for Everyone on Practical Financial Literacy
Available at www.BraunMincher.com and from booksellers nationwide.
(ISBN-13: 978-0-9797003-0-9)