David Park
Editor-in-Chief
CFP®, Former VP at Fidelity Personal Planning
David Park is a Certified Financial Planner who left wealth management to democratize personal finance education. He has helped over 2,000 clients build financial plans and now translates that experience into actionable, jargon-free content. David focuses on the decisions that move the needle most — emergency funds, debt payoff sequencing, tax-advantaged investing, and avoiding common behavioral traps.
Articles by David Park(12)
Top 5 Personal Finance Books Every 20-Something Should Read
The financial decisions you make in your 20s compound for 40 years. These five books give you the mental models to get them right.
How to Build a 6-Month Emergency Fund Fast: A Step-by-Step Guide
A 6-month emergency fund is the foundation of financial stability. Most people have $0. Here's a realistic, step-by-step plan to build yours in 12 months or less.
Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA: Which Is Better for You in 2026?
The Roth vs Traditional IRA debate comes down to one question: will your tax rate be higher now or in retirement? Here's how to answer it for your situation.
Rich Dad Poor Dad vs The Psychology of Money: Which Personal Finance Book to Read First?
Two of the most influential personal finance books ever written. One teaches mindset about assets and liabilities. The other explains why we make irrational money decisions. Both are essential — but which comes first?
Best Personal Finance Apps 2026: YNAB vs Monarch Money vs Empower
The right budgeting app can transform your finances — or collect dust. We compare YNAB, Monarch Money, and Empower to find the best fit for your money style.
I Will Teach You to Be Rich Review: Ramit Sethi's Practical Finance System
Ramit Sethi's I Will Teach You to Be Rich is one of the most practical modern finance books. We read the 2nd edition.
Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Paper Shredder Review: Home Office Security Basics
A cross-cut paper shredder prevents identity theft from trashed financial documents. Amazon Basics is the value pick.
Atomic Habits by James Clear (Hardcover) Review: The Habit Formation Classic
James Clear's Atomic Habits is the modern habit formation classic. We read the hardcover edition for this review.
Total Money Makeover Updated Review: Dave Ramsey's Debt Elimination Framework
Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover is the debt-elimination classic. We read the updated edition to evaluate 2026 relevance.
Texas Instruments BA II Plus Review: The CFA Candidate's Financial Calculator
The TI BA II Plus is one of two CFA-approved calculators. We tested it for finance calculations + exam preparation.
The Psychology of Money Paperback Review: Morgan Housel's Modern Finance Classic
Morgan Housel's Psychology of Money has sold 5M+ copies. We read the paperback to evaluate it for personal finance education.
Life Stage Financial Guide: Your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s
What to prioritize financially in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s: the most important money moves at each life stage, from building foundations to retirement acceleration.