Maggie Bailey, known as the Moonshine Mama, defied the law and prohibition to build a lucrative business selling moonshine in eastern Kentucky. With a career spanning 78 years, she became a legend in the Appalachian region, outsmarting authorities and building a reputation as a pillar of the community. [... more]

Military service offers a unique opportunity for students to fund their college education while gaining valuable leadership experience and serving their country. However, the process of applying to service academies or ROTC programs can be complex and requires careful consideration. Meanwhile, individuals approaching retirement may need to reassess their financial plans, including their estate planning and retirement savings, to ensure a secure financial future. [... more]

North Carolina's charitable donations have rebounded after a slump last year, with licensed charities collecting $48.14 million from July 2024 to June 2025, a $21 million increase from the previous year. The state's tax competitiveness has also been ranked 13th in the 2026 State Tax Competitive Index, with North Carolina performing well in corporate taxes and property taxes. However, the index recommends that the state reform its franchise tax and adopt permanent full expensing to improve its tax competitiveness. Meanwhile, the University of North Carolina system is considering tuition increases, with some universities already seeking increases citing strained budgets. A lawsuit is also ongoing regarding the state health plan's exclusion of certain treatments for transgender individuals, with all parties agreeing to put the case on hold until a similar case in West Virginia is decided. [... more]

A long-held myth in the scientific community claims that humans and chimpanzees share about 98 to 99 percent of their DNA, but recent research reveals that this statistic is likely wrong, with actual differences between the two species being much higher, potentially as high as 20%. [... more]

Creating a new baby financial checklist involves adding the newborn to health insurance, updating life insurance, building an emergency fund, and setting up an education savings fund. It's also essential to update taxes and consider a credit freeze. For retirees, investing in a 50-50 portfolio of stocks and fixed-income investments is a good starting point, and considering faith-based investing options can help align investments with values. [... more]

Using a reverse mortgage for an early inheritance can be a strategic financial planning tool, allowing homeowners to give away part of their home value while alive without risking ownership or ability to live in the home. It's essential to consider long-term health care planning, tax implications, and overall financial goals when making this decision. Additionally, protecting credit files and scores is crucial to prevent identity theft and ensure financial stability. [... more]

Bonds can provide a safe and stable investment option for those looking to diversify their portfolio. Faith-based investing options, such as impact bonds, allow individuals to align their investments with their values and make a positive impact on the world. A properly diversified portfolio can help protect against market volatility and provide a steady return on investment. [... more]

Preparing for college requires careful financial planning, and biblical wisdom can guide decision-making. Art Rayner shares strategies for minimizing debt and avoiding costly misconceptions. Meanwhile, listeners seek advice on retirement planning, investment strategies, and faith-based investing, highlighting the importance of aligning financial decisions with one's values. [... more]

Rob West explores the importance of financial discipline for spiritual and practical reasons, discussing various financial disciplines such as saving, giving, and paying off debt, and how they can lead to financial peace and confidence. He also answers listener questions on topics including converting a retirement account to a Roth IRA, investing for a 19-year-old, and managing a tax-deferred account. [... more]

College is expensive, but many organizations offer scholarships to help students pay for tuition and fees. By applying for scholarships, students can reduce their financial burden and avoid taking on debt. Online resources such as FastWeb, the College Board, and niche.com can help students find and apply for scholarships that match their qualifications and interests. [... more]

College is a significant financial decision, with varying earning potential depending on the major. Data shows that engineering and computer science degrees offer the highest return on investment, while education and humanities majors rank lowest. Understanding the earning potential of a major can help individuals make informed decisions about borrowing and investing in their education. [... more]

Rob West explores the intersection of faith and finance with guests Brandon Pizarro and others, discussing topics such as Christian investing, impact investing, financial stewardship, and kingdom impact. They also address financial literacy, generosity, and the importance of aligning one's financial decisions with their values. [... more]

The NCAA's new president, Charlie Baker, proposes a new tier of Division 1 sports where schools can pay athletes at least $30,000 per year through a trust fund. This move aims to modernize the college sports model and address the disparity between wealthy and non-wealthy schools. The proposal also includes unlimited educational benefits for athletes and the option to do NIL deals with them. [... more]

Preparing for college and managing student loan debt requires discipline and biblical wisdom. Financial author Art Rayner shares strategies for minimizing debt, including saving, taking college-level courses, exploring scholarships, and being willing to work while in school. He also discusses common misconceptions about student loans and the importance of educating oneself on the commitment involved. [... more]

The Supreme Court has clarified that states cannot exclude religious schools from school choice programs, violating the free exercise clause of the Constitution. The IRS has been accused of targeting conservative groups, and the government's lack of transparency and accountability has raised concerns about the 'deep state'. Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine continues, with Finland and Sweden considering NATO membership and the US providing financial support. [... more]