Insights, Advice, and Conversations to Shape Your Financial Future
DISCUSS WITH RUSS
“Discuss With Russ” is your go-to resource for navigating the complex world of personal finance. Whether you’re looking to manage risk, seize new opportunities, or avoid common financial pitfalls, our blog offers insights to help you succeed at every stage of your financial journey.
We’re here to provide actionable strategies and thoughtful guidance to help you take control of your financial future.
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Your Kids Can Learn Money Earlier Than You Think
If you've ever wondered whether your child is old enough to start learning about money, the short answer is probably yes. Russell Rivera shares the simple, low-pressure ways families can start those conversations early, using real situations like grocery shopping and saving for a toy.
Celebrate Financial Independence Day: What True Freedom Looks Like for High Earners
As America celebrates 250 years of independence, it's a good time to think about what freedom means in your own financial life. If a strong income hasn't translated into real security, a deliberate plan can help you close the gap.
What to Do Now to Avoid a Financial Crisis Later
High income doesn’t guarantee financial security. Discover why emergency planning matters and how to create a safety net for when life takes a turn.
New Login Rules for Social Security and Medicare Could Disrupt Access
Struggling to log in to your Social Security or Medicare account? A new federal login system may be to blame. Learn what changed, why it matters, and how to stay connected to the benefits you rely on.
Smart Summer Planning: Budgeting Tips for Kids’ Summer Activities
Summer should be a time to relax, not stress over logistics and costs. Learn how to map out your child’s summer activities while managing expenses in a way that supports your family's bigger financial picture.
What’s Really Holding You Back Financially?
Financial planning is often framed as spreadsheets and returns. But real progress usually starts somewhere else. Russell shares why breaking through emotional barriers is often the first step toward reaching your financial objectives.
Insurance Checkup: How to Make Sure You’re Covered Wisely
Most people set their insurance and forget it—but your life, risks, and financial responsibilities aren’t standing still. This guide walks you through a full insurance review to help ensure your coverage still aligns with the life you're living today.
Recognizing and Resolving Financial Infidelity
When money becomes a secret instead of a shared plan, relationships suffer. This article explores what financial infidelity looks like, why it happens, and how couples can begin the process of repair, financially and emotionally.
Are Small Purchases a Big Deal? Try the .01 Rule to Decide
Ever catch yourself stressing over a five-dollar decision? This video challenges the idea that every small purchase deserves the same level of attention. It offers a simple way to think about everyday spending in the context of your full financial picture. Watch to see how this mindset can make money decisions feel less heavy.
How Credit Cards Can Support Financial Flexibility
Used thoughtfully, credit cards can do more than simplify payments. This article examines how disciplined credit card strategies can enhance financial structure, preserve liquidity, and support long-term planning goals.
Why Annual Financial Reviews Matter More Than You Think
A strong financial plan needs regular attention. This video explains why annual reviews help ensure nothing is missing or outdated. Russell shares a story of how an annual review helped locate a client’s lost retirement account worth over $100k.
Don’t Leave Retirement Money Behind: How to Track Down Old 401(k)s
Think your retirement savings are all accounted for? Maybe not. An estimated 31.9 million 401(k) accounts have been forgotten, often costing savers more than they expect. Find out how to recover lost accounts and prevent future losses.
Caring for a Loved One? Here’s How to Ease the Financial and Emotional Burden of Caregiving
Caring for a parent or relative changes your life financially and emotionally. This article explores the real costs of caregiving, tools like tax breaks and workplace benefits, and ways to protect both what matters: your loved ones and your own well-being.
Year-End Financial Prep Starts Earlier Than You Think
Many year-end financial moves must be completed by December 31, not in March when taxes are due. This short video breaks down the key steps that can impact your 2025 planning and beyond. If you want to stay ahead and avoid last-minute pressure, it’s worth reviewing this now.
From Piggy Banks to Philanthropy: Raising Charitable-Minded Kids
Teaching children the value of giving doesn't require large donations. It starts with small, consistent actions. This article offers practical strategies for raising charitable kids through empathy, family involvement, and hands-on giving opportunities that grow with them.
Breaking the Debt Cycle with Cash-Based Budgeting
Ever feel like your money disappears faster than you can track it? In this video, Russell Rivera explores how using a cash-based budgeting system can help create stronger spending awareness.
Real Talk on Blended Family Finances
Blended families often face hidden financial tension that traditional families might not. Different upbringings, spending habits, and priorities can lead to friction unless they’re addressed head-on. In this episode of Sidewalk Talk, Russell Riveria walks through why communication is key and where to start.
Maximize Your Employee Benefits During Open Enrollment
Salary gets all the attention, but your benefits package may hold just as much value. With open enrollment around the corner, now’s the time to look closely at your health plan, retirement savings, and insurance options.
How to Safeguard Your Identity in a Digital World
With identity theft cases on the rise, knowing how to protect your information is more important than ever. This article walks through what to watch for, when to take action, and how to build stronger defenses.
7 Simple Strategies to Protect Your Financial Data Online
Managing your money online is convenient, but it comes with growing cybersecurity risks. Scammers are getting smarter, and attacks often start with human error, not high-level hacking. Here's how to reduce your risk with practical, proactive steps.