Have you ever felt like your paycheck doesn’t stretch as far as it used to? Like you’re pedaling uphill with flat tires? That’s inflation at work. When I was a kid riding my bike, I didn’t think much about the words "inflate" or "deflate." But I knew one thing—if my tires were flat, I couldn’t go anywhere. Simple as that. Years later, I realized inflation works the same way. Just like a bike can’t run on flat tires, your money can’t keep pace without adjusting for rising costs.

Inflation might sound abstract, but if you’ve ever filled your gas tank or wondered why groceries feel so expensive, you’ve felt it firsthand. The good news? Just like fixing a flat tire, small financial actions today—like investing a little each paycheck—can keep you moving forward.

I think about the economy every day – I just don’t talk about it much. There’s already plenty of noise out there. I focus on how economic shifts hit Main Street, local businesses, and homeowners because that’s where it matters most.

Community banks feel the effects firsthand. When rates rise or markets shift, it impacts how we borrow, lend, and grow. My job? Keep things steady and protect the people we serve.

Budgeting is more than numbers—it's 95% emotional and only 5% strategy. For me, recognizing how childhood experiences shaped my relationship with money was a game changer. It’s not just about tracking spending or saving; it’s about understanding the 'why' behind our financial choices. Whether it's choosing discipline over indulgence or figuring out how to 'pay yourself first' even before taxes, the key to mastering your finances starts with understanding your mindset and building habits that align with your goals.

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