August 2011

Repackaging the Product Works: Pollo Tropical Case Study

On a recent visit to a local restaurant chain, I was thrilled to discover a complete makeover that made the experience much different than lunches past.

10 Financial Victories from College

Last week, I reflected on my college years and some of the regrets I have about my financial life. This week, I take a look at the things I did right and celebrate them.

4 Reasons We Get Stuck (from Seth Godin)

Seth Godin recently wrote about being stuck, citing 4 reasons why most of us can’t complete a project. What a brilliant way to analyze a problem, including the financial ones we face.

August Recommended Reading

Reviewing the best posts from around the Web in August, including Trent’s new series on The Ten Evils, and a guide to home exchanges.

10 Financial Regrets from College

10 years after I started my freshman year in college, I look back at some of the things I would have told myself to do better.

Comcast Escape Attempt and CenturyLink FAIL: A Customer Service Story

Fed up with Comcast, I set out to switch to CenturyLink, a new provider of TV in my area. The experience was less than perfect, and I’m left wondering if Cable TV providers just don’t give a damn anymore.

10 Tips for Financially Separate Couples

Alyssa wonders how to effectively keep money separate for couples who live together but don’t share finances. I share my top 10 tips for making it work.

How to React to Stock Market Panic

Between July 21 and August 8, the Down Jones index fell more than 15%, creating one of the longest streaks of down days in Dow history. Here are a few basic tips for reacting to a market panic.

Buying in Bulk for Singles and Small Families

A reader recently asked about how to effectively buy in bulk while living in a small apartment and being single. I offer some simple ideas for making this work.

Buy One Step Down

It’s natural to only want the best for your money, but unless we address these unrealistic expectations, we’ll soon find ourselves in a deep hole with no way to climb out.