Rooted: A Young Adult’s Guide to Money That Grows

Nobody hands you a manual when your first real paycheck lands.

One day you’re a student; the next, you’re expected to understand withholding, credit scores, 401(k) matches, health insurance, and why your bank just charged you $35 for a coffee. Rooted is a clear, practical, pocket-sized guide to the money skills nobody teaches in school.

Written by a career finance executive who has served as Controller, VP of Finance, and CFO, Rooted brings the same discipline that keeps companies healthy to one person with one paycheck. Inside, you’ll learn how to:

• Read your paycheck and build a budget that actually works
• Choose the right benefits and negotiate your pay
• Avoid bank fees and build an emergency fund
• Build strong credit and pay off debt faster
• Start investing early and let time do the work
• Protect yourself from scams and identity theft
• Start a side hustle with clean, simple books

Every chapter includes hands-on exercises, and the book closes with a 30-day action plan, fill-in worksheets, and a plain-English glossary. Small enough to carry anywhere, Rooted helps you get the roots right now, so time can do the heavy lifting later.

For educational purposes only; not tax, legal, or investment advice.