Lori Atwood, CFP® is the founder of Fearless Finance, whose mission it is to bring money happiness to absolutely everyone. Lori founded Fearless Finance to provide fiduciary, hourly, virtual financial planning advice to people who felt expert financial advice was out of reach. No sales, no commissions, no minimums and no judgment. Lori started Atwood Financial Planning, LLC in 2016, and she has worked in finance for almost 25 years.he firm now operates under the brand Fearless Finance.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Five Steps to Financial Wellbeing: Spend less than you earn, maintain a rainy day fund ($2,000+), build 3-6 months emergency savings, save 15% for retirement, and manage or eliminate consumer debt—all rooted in that first critical step of living below your means.
2. It’s Never Too Late to Start: If you’re in your 40s or 50s and behind on savings, focus on transparency and doing the math rather than avoiding the problem. Calculate your actual retirement needs, increase savings by cutting spending, and remember that financial prosperity isn’t about what you own—it’s about spending less than you earn.
3. Plan for Aging Parents Early: Have honest conversations about your parents’ finances before crisis hits. Aging in place is typically the most affordable option, and families should explore all resources including Medicare, Medicaid, and shared family contributions rather than avoiding difficult discussions.
4. Happiness is Your Best Financial Investment: Unhappiness leads to overspending as people try to “buy happiness.” Investing in what truly makes you content—whether that’s help with childcare, house cleaning, or leaving a toxic job—will save you money long-term by reducing emotional spending and improving decision-making.