Matt Paradise has dedicated over 25 years to the field of financial education. He has won 7 awards for his book Financially Capable: A Friendly Guide to Building Whole-Health Wealth. He coauthored publications with the Massachusetts State Treasurer, the Federal Reserve Bank, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

Matt, a renowned speaker trusted for his expertise, has taught people from diverse backgrounds, including Harvard University and homeless shelters throughout New England. Organizations like the Massachusetts State House, Fidelity Investments, and Massachusetts General Hospital have showcased his unique programs.

He’s earned multiple licenses and certifications in personal finance, including the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE®) Accredited Credit Counselor, Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), and Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist (CITRMS®).

Matt’s leadership helped create the Massachusetts Financial Education Collaborative (now the Financial Empowerment Network), which lobbied for K-12 financial literacy legislation signed by Governor Charlie Baker. He serves on multiple nonprofit boards to further financial capability and economic justice. Matt relies on faith, hope, and love to navigate his personal journey. He has triumphed over drug addiction, homelessness, and cholangiocarcinoma (aka bile duct cancer). He is a loving husband, proud father, and dedicated caregiver for his in-laws. His poodle, Odyssey, keeps him active, and music is a cherished part of his life.

During this episode, we discuss:

• Matt overcoming homelessness and drug addiction that led him into his financial education career
• How he transitioned out of his career and into his own consultancy in 2018
• His cancer diagnosis that led him to writing his book
• Our money stories and how they influence us
• Advice he has for anyone looking to get into the financial education industry

And more. Tune into this episode as we dive into all things financial education!

Access the full transcript here.

Watch the episode on YouTube here.

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