James

James retired in 2005 after serving 21 years in the United States Army. During the latter part of his career, James' interest in personal finance was piqued based on his own experiences and observations of the way most Americans plan – or more accurately, fail to plan – for retirement and the difficulty many face in starting the process. His most valued education has been lessons learned from personal experience and through conversations with smart, savvy friends.

Double Dose of 2008 Financial Crisis

Documentary: The Flaw (2011).  This documentary by David Sington takes a look at the recession and financial collapse of 2008, offering opinions of the causes through interviews with noted homeowners, economists, financial reporters, and Wall Street bankers.  While some critics believe it does not give a fair accounting of all the causes and the forces behind those …

Double Dose of 2008 Financial Crisis Read More »

Double Dose of Greed

Documentary: Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005).  This documentary chronicles one of the most chilling business scandals in history.  Based on the best-selling book “The Smartest Guys in the Room” by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind; and featuring insider accounts and incendiary corporate audio and videotapes, this tale of greed, hubris and betrayal reveals the outrageous personal excesses of …

Double Dose of Greed Read More »

Greed, Fees, and Successful Investing

Classic Movie: Wall Street (1987).  A young and impatient stockbroker is willing to do anything to get to the top, including trading on illegal inside information taken through a ruthless and greedy corporate raider who takes the youth under his wing.  Starring Michael Douglas and Charlie Sheen.   Documentary Film: The Retirement Gamble (2013). The PBS Frontline program notes …

Greed, Fees, and Successful Investing Read More »