You know how some things just click one day? Maybe it’s something you’ve heard a dozen times—or a hundred—but it finally sinks in when you’re ready for it.

That’s what this site is about.

Matt’s Dad Says… is here to help real people figure out real money—without judgment, without shame, and without expecting you to have it all together already.

If You’ve Ever Felt Behind, You’re in the Right Place

Most of us didn’t learn how money really works when we were young. We were taught how to write checks (maybe), how to count change, or how to get a job. But the stuff that actually matters—like how to build a budget you can live with, what debt does to your peace of mind, or why “pay yourself first” is more than a bumper sticker—wasn’t part of the lesson plan.

So, we learned the hard way.

We fell behind on bills. We lived paycheck to paycheck. We borrowed from credit cards we didn’t understand, paid interest we didn’t notice, and made financial decisions that felt like survival… because they were.

There’s no shame in that. Being broke isn’t a moral failing—it’s often just the result of not knowing what we didn’t know.

Why Listen to Me?

I’m not a millionaire or a celebrity financial guru. I’m a guy who spent too long living paycheck to paycheck, who made every money mistake in the book—and then turned it around.

That journey led me to earn my Financial Educator Certificate from the University of Minnesota, where I learned how to teach personal finance in a way that’s clear, practical, and—most importantly—relevant to real life. I’ve also spent years as a professional writer and editor for financial publications, helping break down complex money topics for everyday readers.

So when I talk about budgeting, debt, or saving strategies, I’m not just speaking from experience—I’m trained to teach this stuff. And I care about helping you understand it without the usual confusion, shame, or jargon.

What I Wish I’d Learned Sooner (And What I’ll Share Here)

This site exists because of one of those “aha” moments—a story I’ll tell in detail another day. But it starts with me giving advice to my son (over and over) and him finally hearing that same advice when someone else said it. That’s how it works sometimes. We’re not always ready to hear it until we are.

So think of this blog as that “someone else.” Not your parent. Not a financial advisor in a suit. Just a person who learned the hard way and wants to make your journey easier if you’re ready to start.

I’ll be sharing stories, tips, lessons, and tools that helped me stop feeling powerless about money. Some of it’s simple. Some of it’s hard. But all of it is honest.

What’s Coming Next

Over the next few weeks, you’ll see new blog posts about budgeting, debt, saving, and the small, powerful decisions that lead to big change. I’m also building a full online course that takes everything I’ve learned and walks you through it step-by-step.

There’ll be stories. There’ll be tools. There might even be a dancing piggy bank or two. Because learning about money doesn’t have to feel dry or punishing.

As we get started, here’s a peek at just one, very simple, paycheck splitter tool that you’ll be able to use to get started on your budgeting journey.

We’re In This Together

If you’ve ever felt like you’re “bad with money” or like you’re the only one who didn’t get the memo—welcome. You’re not alone. You’re not broken. And it’s not too late.

Matt’s Dad Says… take the first step. Learn a little every day. And give yourself the grace to grow at your own pace.

We’ll figure it out together.