In a recent episode of the Level Up Podcast, co-host Addison Wiggin put it simply—and powerfully: “We need to make skills and trades cool again.” It’s more than a catchphrase. It’s a cultural rally cry. For too long, the trades have been quietly essential, but socially invisible. While skilled labor powers the backbone of our economy, it rarely shows up in career day presentations, glossy brochures, or aspirational TikToks. But it could—and it should. If…
Once you’ve picked your major medical health insurance and set your 401(k) contributions, there’s often one more section of your benefits package to consider: voluntary or supplemental insurance plans. These aren’t required, but they can offer targeted support that fits your life and risk profile. And since they’re offered through your employer, they’re usually more affordable than if you bought them on your own. This type of insurance can be significant income protection as the…
It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing, “That won’t happen to me.” But here’s the truth: you’re far more likely to experience a serious illness or injury that prevents you from working, than to die unexpectedly before retirement. Think about this; If you die, your obligations end. If you are sick or seriously injured, not only do your obligations persist – you will likely encounter more financial obligations as a result of the…
Reimagining the Career School Experience When we talk about college, we don’t just talk about classes and credits—we talk about the experience. The late-night study sessions, campus life, dorm room memories, and student clubs. For many, it’s about personal growth, independence, and connection just as much as academics. But what if you choose a different path—like trade school? For students who want to learn a skill and have a meaningful, connected student life, trade schools…
Life insurance isn’t always top of mind when you’re starting a new job. But understanding whether you need it—and how much—is an essential part of building financial stability for those who depend on you. Let’s walk through the basics so you can make a clear and confident choice. What Is Life Insurance? Life insurance pays out a lump sum to your chosen beneficiary (like a spouse or child) if you pass away. It’s designed to…
What happens when a generation is told there’s only one path to success—and then that path doesn’t pan out? We’re living the answer. Across the country, nearly 40 million Americans have what researchers call “Some College, No Credential.” They started their higher education journey with high hopes but never finished—and now carry the burden of student debt, lost time, and stalled career momentum. This isn’t just a personal challenge. It’s a national problem—one fueled by…
When you’re just starting a job, retirement might feel like a lifetime away. But starting to save for retirement early is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. Why? Because time—and compound interest—are on your side. As much as compound interest on credit card borrowing can put you in a death spiral – the opposite occurs with savings. One of the best retirement savings vehicles is the 401(k). Let’s walk through how to…
Making the Right Call for Your Health (and Wallet) Your new job offers health benefits—congrats! But now you’re staring at acronyms, charts, and confusing terminology. PPO? HMO? HDHP? HSA or FSA? Don’t worry. With a little clarity, you can confidently choose a plan that fits your health and your wallet. Let’s walk through what all this means—and how to choose wisely based on your own needs. How Employer Healthcare Plans Work An employer-sponsored healthcare plan…
Think back to your high school experience. Odds are, the loudest voices—teachers, counselors, media, even family—urged one path above all others: college. Meanwhile, the trades sat quietly in the background, often framed as a “Plan B” for students who didn’t “fit” the academic mold. This didn’t happen by accident. Over the past several decades, traditional four-year colleges won the marketing war. They captured the narrative, redefined what success looks like, and in the process, pushed…
From Back-Up Plan to First Choice Ask a high school student what they want to do after graduation, and you’ll likely hear the word “college.” Ask them if they’ve considered a career school—a program focused on trades, technical skills, or certifications—and many will look puzzled or unsure. That reaction isn’t accidental. For decades, vocational education has lived under the shadow of the four-year degree, seen by many as the back-up option for students who “couldn’t”…
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