Tag: Business & Money

‘Emotionally Invested’: A Fresh Take on Fearless Retirement Planning

‘Emotionally Invested’ by Mary Clements Evans. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Spotlight: Emotionally Invested by Mary Clements Evans

Emotionally Invested: Outsmart Your Anxiety for Fearless Retirement Planning by Mary Clements Evans is not your typical money book—it’s a self-help guide disguised as financial advice. Evans, a Certified Financial Planner, explores how our emotions, habits, and personal histories shape the way we handle money. Whether you’re a chronic saver, a guilt-ridden spender, or someone who avoids money talk altogether, this book offers a judgment-free path toward financial clarity and confidence. (The Authority Company, 2025)

✨ 2025 Global Book Awards Bronze Medalist in Business & Money

A Different Approach to Money

Most financial advisors rely on the “rational man” theory: give people enough information, and they’ll make rational decisions. But humans aren’t purely rational—emotions play a huge role in our financial choices.

When Mary Clements Evans, CFP®, CDFA, ABFP®, opened her financial services firm in 2008, she set out to create a no-judgment zone where clients could feel safe discussing money. She helped people discover their Money Why—the underlying reasons behind financial behaviors—and it transformed their relationship with money.

After nearly two decades of what she calls “financial therapy,” Evans wrote this book to share her most powerful lessons from working with over 500 individuals and families.

What You’ll Learn

Instead of stock tips or investment strategies, Emotionally Invested dives into the emotional drivers of financial decisions. Evans shows how uncovering your own (and your partner’s) Money Why is the first step toward lasting financial happiness.

She also shares practical solutions for overcoming money anxiety, working with financial professionals, and building confidence about retirement. Above all, she reminds readers: it’s never too late to improve your financial future.

Key Takeaways

  • In the 1970s, retirement planning shifted from employers and unions to individuals—a change Evans calls the “Big Sin.” The “Big Lie” was that planning and saving would be easy.
  • People generally fall into two categories: FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) or FORO (Fear of Running Out)—and each impacts financial choices differently.
  • Financial happiness means having enough to enjoy life today while still feeling secure about the future.
  • Couples should try scheduling a monthly money date night to make financial conversations easier.
  • Not all financial designations are created equal—some require rigorous training, while others are little more than paid credentials.
  • The best advisors aren’t just knowledgeable; they also have integrity, empathy, and strong people skills.

About the Author

Mary Clements Evans is the founder and president of Evans Wealth Strategies in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, and a Raymond James registered principal. She is a Certified Financial Planner, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and an Accredited Behavioral Financial Professional.

With a BA in accounting from Temple University, Evans spent 25 years in corporate finance with Exide Battery, Goodall Rubber, Kellogg’s, and Rodale Publishing before launching her firm in 2008. An international speaker, she has been named to Raymond James’ Chairman’s Council for six consecutive years.

Why You Should Read Emotionally Invested

If money conversations leave you anxious or overwhelmed, this book will help you approach finances with clarity and confidence. It’s not about formulas and charts—it’s about creating a healthy, fearless relationship with money that supports the life you want now and in retirement.

📖 Ready to take control of your financial future?

  • Grab your copy of Emotionally Invested wherever books are sold.
  • Share this post with a friend, partner, or family member who could benefit from a fresh, compassionate approach to money.
  • Start your own “money date night” this month and put Evans’ advice into action.

Hard Work, Humility, and the Human Spirit: A Powerful Read from Elyezer Shkedy

‘Who the F*ck is Michael?!’ is the debut bestselling book by General (Ret.) Elyezer Shkedy. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Review: “Who the F*ck is Michael?!” by Elyezer Shkedy
Leadership, Humility, and the Power of Personal Responsibility

If you’re looking for a book that packs a punch in both inspiration and life wisdom, “Who the F*ck is Michael?!: An Israeli Air Force Chief’s Uncompromising Code for Achieving Greatness” by Elyezer Shkedy deserves a spot on your reading list.

The Premise

In this thought-provoking collection, Shkedy—former Commander of the Israeli Air Force—distills over 100 life stories into concise lessons on leadership, success, integrity, and personal responsibility. The stories are short, engaging, and packed with real-world relevance. Each one describes a real event in his life as he remembers it and are not presented in a linear format.

The provocative title comes from a story about humility and hidden greatness. Michael was the principal at their son Omer’s school and one day he told them that Omer would never learn to read or write. The phrase became their family’s defiant battle cry whenever someone would tell them they couldn’t do something they were determined to do. It sets the tone for what’s to come: a reminder that extraordinary people often live quietly among us.

Life Lessons

This collection of stories contain life lessons filled with emotional intelligence. Shkedy doesn’t lecture—he shares. His anecdotes range from military missions to personal reflections, each offering a glimpse into the kind of leadership that values character over charisma and action over words. He manages to do all this without sounding condescending and by using straightforward language. Most of the stories end with a section on the specific lesson he learned.

Some of these stories include:

  • Superhighway to Change
  • The Real Estate Shark
  • You Have No Approval
  • The Ego Beneath the Surface

Highlights

21 – They Are Just Like You – He grew up in an institution for children at risk because his father ran the place and the family lived on the premises. He was taught at an early age that we’re all basically the same, this is one of the lessons that he took to heart during his lifetime. Part of his gold rule for living is to treat others like you would like to be treated.

129 – You Wouldn’t Want to Live In The Past – “When you have completed a significant chapter of your career, let it go.” Be proud about what you did, but move on.

Whether you’re in business, education, healthcare, or just navigating life, this book will challenge you to think deeply about what it means to lead, serve, and strive for excellence.

Final Thoughts

Overall, “Who the F*ck is Michael?!” is more than a leadership book—it’s a mirror for anyone who wants to live with purpose and accountability. It is recommended for readers who appreciate sensible personal advice and also enjoy books on business leadership and personal success.

“A person may appear pitiful and pathetic at first glance; their accent and vocabulary may not be impressive; their attire may not be striking — but that tells you nothing about their ability, their wit, their intelligence or their potential.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book and received a copy. The view and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Related post: Leadership Lessons from a Military Commander: What Elyezer Shkedy’s Book Teaches Us About Success

Leadership Lessons from a Military Commander: What Elyezer Shkedy’s Book Teaches Us About Success

‘Who the F*ck is Michael?!: An Israeli Air Force Chief’s Uncompromising Code for Achieving Greatness’ by Elyezer Shkedy. Photo: Barnes & Noble

The Power of Books on Personal and Business Success

Books on personal and business success offer more than just inspiration—they provide actionable insights, proven strategies, and lessons from top leaders across industries. These works condense decades of experience into digestible, practical advice that can help readers improve their mindset, boost productivity, enhance leadership skills, and sharpen decision-making.

Whether you’re launching a startup or pursuing personal growth, these books offer real-world relevance and motivation. Readers learn from the triumphs and setbacks of renowned entrepreneurs and executives, gaining perspectives that can accelerate their own journeys. Ultimately, these books act as mentors on the page, empowering individuals to achieve their goals with clarity and confidence.

Spotlight on Elyezer Shkedy and “Who the F*ck is Michael?!”

General (Ret.) Elyezer Shkedy served as the fifteenth commander of the Israeli Air Force, where he led numerous strategic operations—including the pivotal Operation Orchard airstrike on Syria’s nuclear reactor. After his military service, he became the CEO of El Al, Israel’s national airline, and currently leads over fifteen educational and social NGOs. As president of I Belong Israel, Shkedy is a prominent voice on leadership, tolerance, and personal values.

His bestselling debut book “Who the F*ck is Michael?!: An Israeli Air Force Chief’s Uncompromising Code for Achieving Greatness” has sold over 30,000 copies in its Hebrew edition and was the most-read book among Israeli military personnel in 2022. (CS Lewis Publicity, 2025)

A Leadership Book Like No Other

“Who the F*ck is Michael?!” is a compelling exploration of leadership, resilience, and personal excellence. Drawing from a career that spans elite military command and corporate leadership, Shkedy shares over 100 real-life stories and insights that stress the importance of hard work, accountability, and moral courage.

Originally published in Hebrew and now available in English, the book received the prestigious Golden Book Award. It stands as a powerful guide for anyone looking to lead with intention, discipline, and integrity.

Transform Your Business: How Mike Dunlop’s ‘The Art of the Turnaround’ Can Revolutionize Your Strategy

‘The Art of the Turnaround’ is the new business strategy guide by Mike Dunlop. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Business books offer invaluable insights into the strategies, principles, and practices that drive successful enterprises. They cover a wide range of topics, from leadership and management to marketing and finance. By studying these books, entrepreneurs and professionals can learn from the experiences of industry leaders, gain practical advice, and understand emerging trends. Titles like “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries and “Good to Great” by Jim Collins provide actionable frameworks for achieving business excellence. Whether you’re starting a new venture or seeking to enhance an established organization, business books serve as a vital resource for growth and innovation. Today’s new book is “The Art of the Turnaround” by Mike Dunlop.

Mike Dunlop has helped restore 34 companies in various stages of financial demise back to profitability. He has worked in the aerospace sector for over four decades and has built a number of aerospace component manufacturing companies, both in Europe and the United States. The largest company he founded, QPM Aerospace, grew to $30 million in sales in the first ten years. Dunlop designed and founded Net-Inspect, the most widely used aerospace quality-management system in the world. He holds four US Patents and has been passionate about airplanes since his first flight on a Vickers Viscount in 1955 at the age of seven. Dunlop is an experienced public speaker and offers his wisdom and stories on his weekly podcast, also entitled The Art of the Turnaround. In his new book “The Art of the Turnaround: A Comprehensive 10-Step Guide,” he shares his experiences helping businesses go from financial straits to profitability. (Shark Party Media, 2024)

“The Art of the Turnaround” – Mike Dunlop shares his proven 10-step method for turning around companies in deep financial distress, which he has used to restore some 34 companies to financial health and profitability. Infused with Dunlop’s down-to-earth humor and deep understanding of how people in companies actually work, especially at a time of crisis. It offers CEOs of troubled companies and leaders who are buying distressed companies a practical way to avoid financial ruin. Dunlop also offers hope that, after the challenging task of turning a money-losing company into a profitable one, life for the CEO as well as those who stay in the company will be enjoyable again.

All proceeds from the sale of “The Art of the Turnaround” and associated speaking engagements will be donated to Eastside Academy and Jubilee Reach.

Author Mike Dunlop. Courtesy photo, used with permission.