About Me
Let's start at the beginning. I grew up in a huge family - being one of eight kids. My parents were incredible, doing everything they could to provide for us. Dad worked two jobs, often clocking in 80 hours a week, while Mom managed the chaos of raising eight children. Money was always tight, but they made miracles happen with what we had. This was my first classroom in financial management - watching them stretch every dollar and make the impossible happen.
My fascination with finance started when I was just a kid, sneaking into my mom's van to listen to financial advice shows on the AM radio. I was that eight-year-old kid who was oddly interested in budgets and saving plans. Little did I know, these early lessons were setting the foundation for my future career.
Fast forward to 2008, the year of the Great Recession. It was a tough time for everyone, but it hit our family especially hard. Dad lost one of his two jobs and out of fear, withdrew all his savings from his 401k at the bottom of the stock market. It was a decision that had a lasting impact and one that really opened my eyes to the importance of financial education.
My career path took me into law enforcement. Over the course of a decade, I’ve seen many colleagues struggle with financial stress, especially as retirement loomed. It became clear to me that I wanted to do more than just enforce the law. I wanted to help people manage their finances better, to give them the stability and freedom I knew was possible.
Then there's the story of Jess, the love of my life and my first-ever client. When I met her, she was struggling with credit card debt, a scenario far too common. Helping her turn her financial situation around was not just a challenge; it was a mission. And as we worked through it together, I knew I had found my calling.
So here I am today, a financial coach with a deep passion for helping others take control of their finances. Whether it's helping first responders and medical workers create a budget, reducing their consumer debt or assisting them in saving for their first home, I'm here for it all.
My journey from a law enforcement officer to a financial coach wasn't straightforward, but it was driven by a desire to make a real difference. I've lived through financial stress and seen its impact on families and individuals. Now, I want to use my experience to help others find their path to financial freedom.
Thanks for being a part of my journey, and I hope I can be a part of yours, helping you navigate the world of finance with confidence and peace of mind.
Sincerely,
Financial Coach Tony Winford