The Shield Finance Blog

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Financial education, coaching insights, and real talk about money for first responders.

The Parking Lot Problem
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The Parking Lot Problem

The Parking Lot Problem Walk through any department parking lot before the start of a shift. Look at what’s sitting there. Lifted trucks. Brand new SUVs. Nice stuff.…

Jun 9, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
The One Insurance Policy Most Officers Never Buy (And Regret It)
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The One Insurance Policy Most Officers Never Buy (And Regret It)

The One Insurance Policy Most Officers Never Buy (And Regret It) Ask any officer about life insurance and they’ll give you an answer. Most departments offer some level…

Jun 2, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
We Remember
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We Remember

Memorial Day isn’t about cookouts. I know that sounds obvious, but it’s worth saying out loud, because the holiday has a way of softening into something comfortable —…

May 25, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
The Income Illusion: Why Your Paycheck Isn’t as Stable as You Think
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The Income Illusion: Why Your Paycheck Isn’t as Stable as You Think

The Income Illusion: Why Your Paycheck Isn’t as Stable as You Think There’s a moment every newer officer experiences — usually somewhere in the first two or three…

May 5, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
What’s Behind $4.99 Gas — and When It Might Come Down
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What’s Behind $4.99 Gas — and When It Might Come Down

Editor’s note (added June 9, 2026): This article was published April 30, 2026 and reflects prices and Indiana tax policy as of that date. Two corrections: Indiana’s fuel-tax…

Apr 30, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
Happy Easter!
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Happy Easter!

A quick note from Ryan at Shield Finance wishing everyone a Happy Easter.

Apr 5, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
When Two People Share a Life But Not a Financial Plan
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When Two People Share a Life But Not a Financial Plan

Most couples argue about money without realizing the real issue is having no shared plan. The SHIELD Financial Coaching Framework gives you both a common language and a clear path forward.

Apr 4, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
Are We on the Same Page? — A Couples Finance Discussion
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Are We on the Same Page? — A Couples Finance Discussion

Money is one of the most intimate conversations a couple can have — and one of the most avoided. A discussion about finances from His & Hers perspective in marriage, with practical guidance from a financial coach.

Mar 31, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
The Hardest Words to Say: “I Need Help With My Money”
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The Hardest Words to Say: “I Need Help With My Money”

On overcoming the fear of asking for financial help — and what changes when you do.

Mar 29, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
You Have $0 Saved for Retirement. Here’s Exactly What to Do First.
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You Have $0 Saved for Retirement. Here’s Exactly What to Do First.

Starting from zero isn’t a character flaw. It’s a starting point. Here’s a practical, step-by-step path to building retirement savings — no jargon, no judgment.

Mar 27, 2026 · Ryan Skaggs
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