2008 Press Coverage / Media Interest 

Villager Journal, December 30, 2008 – In “Elderly Effected by Recession,” the Garrett Planning Network is recommended as a resource for seniors seeking the advice of an objective fiduciary.

SmartMoney, December 29, 2008 – When asked how to prepare financially for the upcoming year, Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, said that "budgeting has probably never been more important." Read more in “7 Ways to Save in 2009.”

GoErie.com, December 28, 2008 - "Strongly consider not giving anyone trading authority or the ability to withdraw their fee from your account,” Sheryl Garrett advised in an article about avoiding fraud.  Read more in “What to Learn from Scandal.”

USA Today, December 25, 2008 - "Companies have to cut where they think it inflicts the least amount of pain on their employees and their business.  Cutting into your retirement nest egg temporarily is their way of trying to stay viable and continue giving you a paycheck,” said Sheryl Garrett in “Rebuilding Retirement Savings with 401(k) and Smart Use of Stocks.”

New York Times, December 23, 2008 – In “About Financial Planners:  What you Need to Know,” the Garrett Planning Network was mentioned as a source for clients seeking hourly advice that is not swayed by commissions.

Newark Advocate, December 22, 2008 – “One mistake young investors make is confusing the principle of investing aggressively with making risky investments,” said Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network. Find out what financial moves you should make based on your age in “Protect Your Finances from Financial Downturn.”

AARP The Magazine, December 11, 2008 – "Win a Money Makeover!" features AARP teaming up with the Garrett Planning Network to offer a chance for 6 households to win a free financial review and plan in 2009. Those chosen will receive recommendations made by one of Garrett’s nearly 300 independent financial planners across the country.

SmartMoney, December 9, 2008 - "Consumers need to be aware that all credit isn't good credit and that some credit may get you into worse financial trouble than you're already in," said Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Planning Network. Read more in “5 Card Deals that Can Destroy Your Credit.”

Atlanta Journal Constitution, December 4, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network gift certificates were recommended as a great money-minded gift in “Money Always a Welcome Holiday Gift, with Some Caveats.”

Forbes, December 3, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett discussed the importance of having a high credit score in the article, “Improve Your Credit Score.”  "A few years ago, people could get by with credit scores of 700 to 730, no problem,” said Garrett. “Now, if you are not north of 750, you won't get the best rate, and you may not even get a loan at all."

Forbes, November 26, 2008 – A Garrett Planning Network Gift Certificate is considered a practical and money-minded gift for the holidays in the article, “Spread the Wealth:  Smart Money Gifts that Pay.”

USA Today, November 24, 2008 – “One mistake young investors make is confusing the principle of investing aggressively with making risky investments,” said Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network. Garrett discussed the recent financial meltdown and how people in their 20’s should invest in the article, “How Should You Invest in a Bad Economy? Stocks? Bonds?”

Los Angeles Times, November 9, 2008 – “Talking with a fee-only planner is a smart idea in any market when you're within five years of retirement, but it's especially wise today when investors face so much volatility,” wrote Liz Pulliam Weston in “Does Paying Old Debts Help Credit Score.” She goes on to suggest the Garrett Planning Network as a place to find a fee-only advisor.

Los Angeles Times, November 3, 2008 – In “High Income Doesn’t Preclude Overspending,” the Garrett Planning Network is hailed as a good source for a fee-only financial advisor to help you prepare your finances for retirement.
 
Chicago Tribune, November 2, 2008 – In “Choosing a Financial Planner that’s Right for You,” the Garrett Planning Network is recommended as a resource for finding a financial advisor who works with clients on an hourly basis.

Get Rich Slowly Blog, October 30, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett’s efforts in making financial advice accessible to everyone are recognized in the blog, “Meeting the Diehards:  Profiting from Shared Wisdom.”

Wall Street Journal, October 22, 2008 – In the article, “Four Tips: Smart Money Moves for a down Economy,” Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, advised to boost your credit score by “not using more than 30% of a card’s available credit line.”
 
Daily Harold, October 19, 2008 – In the article, “Keeping Investment Strategy Simple,” the Garrett Planning Network was mentioned as a resource for finding a fee-only financial advisor and making sure your portfolio comes out on top.

Reuters, October 15, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network is given as a source for locating a financial advisor in the article, “Personal Finance:  Shore up your Retirement Plans.” The article suggests using that advisor for getting a retirement plan reviewed or put in place.

CNN Money, October 9, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett provided a tip on how to “ladder” CD’s for safety and income in the article, “9 Tips to Tough out the Times.”

DailyRecord.com, October 3, 2008 – “This is the most conservative I have been in almost 25 years.  It’s all about preservation,” said Sheryl Garrett, CFP® in an article about preparing for retirement in today’s economy. Click on the following link to read “Retirement Income:  Be Safe or Ride it Out.”

ABCNews.com, October 1, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network was recognized along with several members:  Deborah Winterhalter, CFP® from Warrenville, IL, Jay Hutchins, CFP®, CDFA from Lebanon, NH, Jake Engle, CFP® from Seattle, WA and Brendan McNamar, CFP® from Mesa, AZ.  These Garrett advisors give answers to readers personal finance questions in the article, “Financial Pros Answer Your Top Questions.”

U.S. News & World Report, October 1, 2008 – “Anyone can call themselves a financial planner or adviser,” said Sheryl Garrett in the article, “How to Find a Financial Planner.”  The Garrett Planning Network is named as a good resource to use in finding a qualified financial planner.

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, October 2008 – In “Financial Physical,” the Garrett Planning Network was recommended as a resource for pros that can help you get your financial plan on track.

Forbes.com, September 24, 2008 – The article, “Know Your Options When Hiring a Financial Advisor,” recommends the Garrett Planning Network for Certified Financial Planner™ professionals who meet with clients on an hourly basis.

Wall Street Journal, September 16, 2008 – As part of a program to help employees with money matters, some employers are offering sessions with financial advisors. The Garrett Planning Network is mentioned as a possible place to find these advisors in “New Employee Benefit: Financial Advisor.”

Reuters, September 11, 2008 – “If you're not paying the advisor directly, they aren't working for you directly,” wrote Linda Stern in “Finding the Right Advisor.” The article suggests the Garrett Planning Network as being a good place to find a fee-only advisor.

Morningstar, September 11, 2008 – In “How Much Financial Help Do You Need,” the Garrett Planning Network is recognized as a good place for “a la carte advice.”

Kansas City Star, September 7, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Network, was quoted on women’s financial issues in “Advice for Women from Financial Advisors.” “Have a plan B for what happens if you can’t work.  And that usually means saving more now,” said Garrett.

CNN Money, September 5, 2008 – In the article, “Your Biggest Money Worries – Solved,” the Garrett Planning Network is is recommended as a good place to find a fee-only advisor to assist you with developing your financial plan.

Baltimore Sun, August 17, 2008 – In the article, “Financial Goals Can Help You Resist Overspending,” Just Give Me the Answer$: Expert Advisors Address Your Most Pressing Financial Questions is pointed out as a good resource for achieving financial goals. This book is written by Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, with Marie Swift and The Garrett Planning Network, Inc.

Chicago Tribune, August 15, 2008 – In the article, “Have a nice wedding and buy your first home, too,” the Garrett Planning Network was mentioned as a good option for engaged couples to get their finances in order before the wedding.

Wall Street Journal, August 3, 2008 – "You are the customer, if you're not getting the attention you deserve and you're paying for, find an adviser who will accommodate you,” said Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Planning Network. Read more in “Getting Advice in a Rough Market.”

The Star-Ledger, July 27, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network is mentioned as a good source for a fee-only financial planner in Star-Ledger’s Ask the Biz Brain column.

Kansas City Star, July 27, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett and the Garrett Financial Education Alliance (GFEA) Fun Run/Walk were recognized for their efforts to raise money for financial literacy in “Walking Smart.”

CNN.com, July 25, 2008 - "We're liable for making the best decisions (for our workers), yet we're not empowered with what our options are," said Sheryl Garrett, CFP® in “Hidden 401(k) Fees You May be Paying.”

Kingsport Times News, July 21, 2008 – In the article, “10 Ways Seniors Can Stretch Their Dollars,” Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, gives great and simple tips to help seniors make their money go farther.

Lafayette Online News, July 17, 2008 – In an article about penny-pinching, Sheryl Garrett is quoted as saying, “Some seniors may be running short on money, but for others there’s always that fear of running out because they lived through the Depression.  They know how ugly it can get.”  Read more in “Penny-pinching Seniors Put Health, Well Being at Risk.”

Los Angeles Times, July 13, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network is recommended as a great place to get advice on asset allocation in the Q&A article, “Pay Off the Loan on Your Car Before Trading it In.”

San Diego Union Tribune, July 1, 2008 – “Staying in the work force longer can have a dramatic impact on retirement savings, working even just a few extra years can make a difference” said Sheryl Garrett in “Study:  Workers Not Saving Enough for Retirement.”

USA Today, July 1, 2008 – In the article, “Goal for Retirement Saving Rises,” Sheryl Garrett offers her expertise and agrees that “almost everybody needs to be saving much more for retirement.” In addition, replacement guidelines "just don't go far enough when you factor in the huge health care responsibility that is shifting from the employer's shoulders to ours at retirement."

Business Report, June 25, 2008 - "Unfortunately, pain is required for change. The pain of the uncertain economy, of gas prices and food prices, is becoming an important reality check," said Sheryl Garrett in “Americans Sacrifice Lattes as Inflation Swallows Budgets.”

San Jose Mercury News, June 22, 2008 – In the article, “Set Up a Plan to Live Within Your Means, Pay Off Debt,” Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, is quoted with great ideas to getting out and staying out of debt.

Forbes.com, May 28, 2008 – Hiring a financial planner from the Garrett Planning Network is mentioned as a good way to be “savvy” with your money in “Personal Finance: Don't Worry, Be Savvy.”
 
Chicago Tribune, May 25, 2008 – In “Bailing Out in a Flood of Debt,” Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Network and author of Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies®, cautioned readers against taking counterproductive actions in order to decrease expenses. For example, if they are worried that their spending exceeds their income, they may drop insurance coverage, thinking it's not needed. "Maybe you don't need it this month, but eventually you will be confronted with expenses, so be prepared," she said.
 
New York Times, May 20, 2008 – In the article, “Five Basic Guidelines for Managing Your Finances,” the Garrett Planning Network is recognized as a helpful resource for people without large portfolios.
 
CNN Money, May 14, 2008 – In “Wanted: Free financial advice,” the Garrett Planning Network is mentioned as one of the few resources for finding an hourly financial planner. The writer of the articles suggests that before hiring that planner, be sure that you ask some tough questions. In particular, you'll want to ask some technical questions about your portfolio. Then go home and sleep on it before making any decision.
 
MarketWatch, May 6, 2008 – In the article, “Put Paycheck to Work,” Sheryl Garrett, CFP® is quoted saying, "walk into your payroll office, take a copy of your paycheck stub and say are there any kind of other deductions or employee benefits that are available through the company?"  

MarketWatch, April 27, 2008 – In “How to keep cash flowing in case your paychecks stop,” Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Network, suggested establishing a line of credit as a way to prepare for a layoff.

New York Times, April 27, 2008 – In the article “Pick a Planner Who Can Spell ‘Fiduciary’,” Sheryl Garrett commented on the importance of picking the right financial planner.  She said, “This is a person giving you advice over some of the most important decisions in your life.”  She also stated that “if an adviser doesn’t know what you’re talking about or can’t say ‘yes’ with conviction, then that’s your answer.”

U.S. News and World Report, April 16, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, coauthor of Money Without Matrimony, offered advice for unmarried couples living together in “Living Together While Keeping Money Unmarried.”

USA Today, April 23, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Network, responded to a myth about not saving very much for retirement since people think their living cost will drop.  “Most retirees don't spend less in retirement,” Garrett said. “It's not uncommon for us to add maybe $5,000 to $10,000 to their yearly budget for trips, hobbies or other things they haven't had the opportunity to do.”  Read more myth busters in “10 myths about investing and finances that trip up people.”

New York Times, April 23, 2008 – “Unless you’ve actually lived through it personally, you don’t fully appreciate some of the nuances of the deaccumulation phase,” said Sheryl Garrett in the article “Making Your Money Last as Long as You Live.”

Daily Herald, April 13, 2008 – If learning the basics of investing seems too confusing, hiring a Garrett Planning Network member is advised as a good way to get started in “When you're investing, dig in before you're buried.”

Financial Planning Magazine, April 1, 2008 – The Garrett Marketing Communications Coach, Marie Swift, was mentioned as a marketing expert in “New Faces.”

NPR, March 25, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP® hit the air waves as one of three featured financial advisors interviewed by NPR’s Tom Ashbrook. The topic of discussion was “protecting your investments and how to ride out the current economic storm.” Click here to listen to a recording of the show.

FPA This Week, March 3, 2008 – When The Wall Street Journal recently ran an article entitled “12 People Who Are Changing Your Retirement,” long time FPA member Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, was recognized for her efforts in spreading the benefits of financial planning. Read more about Sheryl’s acclaim in “The Wall Street Journal Recognizes FPA Member.”

Newsweek, March 3, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett and the Garrett Planning Network are mentioned in the article “Planners Wanted ASAP” as a good choice in either finding a reputable financial planner or becoming part of a financial planner network.

MarketWatch, March 1, 2008 – In an article about five mutual funds that would be good options for newlyweds, Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Network, commented on one of the funds in “To have and to hold.”

Journal of Financial Planning, March 2008 – Read Sheryl Garrett’s noteworthy answers when asked ten very interesting questions in “Sheryl Garrett on Why 400,000 Planners Are Needed... And Where They'll Come From.”

PRWeb, March 2008 – Garrett Network members brainstormed ways taxpayers can put their hard earned money to work. The result is "What to Do with Your Tax Rebate or Other ‘Found Money’ – Thirteen Smart Ideas" from “Dummies” author Sheryl Garrett and the Garrett Planning Network. Check it out online via the link above, where it is available as both a 5-minute podcast (interview with Sheryl Garrett, who recaps the high points of our collective advice) and an electronic news release.

CNN Money, February 25, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network is mentioned as a good place to find an advisor when approaching retirement in “Ask The Expert: Is a financial planner trying to swindle my mom?”

Los Angeles Times, February 24, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network is recommended as a reliable source in finding a reputable financial planner in the article “A debt can continue tohaunt.”

MarketWatch, February 22, 2008 – When thinking about newly reopened value funds, Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, stated: "These managers I've respected and admired for so many years are looking at the long-term prospects for our economy and stocks to purchase, and they're seeing wonderful opportunities. We may not see an instant payoff, but it is time to put our money to work.” Read “Unlocked and loaded” for more advice on investing in these reopened funds.

Bloomington Pantagraph, February 21, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett spoke to a group of college students in the Twin Cities as part of a series of speaking engagements as well as promoting her newest book, Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies®. She shared her passion by saying “Financial planning is one of the most powerful and rewarding career paths where someone can do a lot of good for another person in a short time.” Read more in “Financial guru spreads the word.”

Daily Vidette, February 21, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, founder of Garrett Planning Network, shared her experiences in the corporate world and beyond with students at Illinois State University. She shared her path to entrepreneurialship with financial planning in “Sheryl Garrett discusses financial planning issues with students.”

Wall Street Journal, February 16, 2008 – In a special report called "12 People Who Are Changing Your Retirement," WSJ writer Kelly Greene profiles Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, saying: “These pioneers are shaping the way Americans will live, work and play later in life” and that “Sheryl Garrett is on a mission to bring financial planning to the masses.”

Bloomington Pantagraph, February 14, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP® shared her experiences as a financial planning entrepreneur and gave Illinois State University students tips to establish a solid financial foundation. She also spoke with ISU faculty, staff and annuitants. Read “Author to share message about personal finance.”

Chicago Tribune, February 10, 2008 – Along with rising health-care costs, workers need to plan for higher risks associated with their care in retirement, writes Janet Kidd Stewart in “Employer cutbacks have retirees facing more health-care costs.” Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Network, was quoted in the article regarding her view on this subject.

Orlando Sun Sentinel, January 28, 2008 –The Garrett Planning Network was represented in an article about rolling over your 401(k) into an IRA.

USA Today, January 27, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network was featured as a place to find a good financial advisor in “Turning 62: Research, caution help in handling lump sum.”

TODAY Show, January 25, 2008 – The Garrett Planning Network was mentioned on the TODAY Show as a wise choice for locating a financial advisor to help you plan your financial future. Read “5 experts reveal money-saving secrets” to learn more.

Appleton Post Crescent, January 23, 2008 – In “Markets ride wild wave,” Sheryl Garrett, founder of Garrett Planning Network, responded when asked if consumers should cut back on spending: "So many people have overextended themselves. If you're living on the edge when times are good, just what are you going to do when they get bad?"  

MarketWatch, January 22, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett offered steps to help investors protect themselves and be goal oriented with their investments in “In managing your finances, keep courage under fire.”

Associated Press, January 21, 2008 – As Americans learn to live within their means, Sheryl Garrett, founder of Garrett Planning Network, contributes advice on being prepared when times get rough in “Consumers Retrench As Economy Weakens.”

Los Angeles Times, January 20, 2008 – One reader who was “blown away by planners’ fees” asked personal finance columnist Liz Pulliam Weston if there were any financial planner services for the ordinary working middle class. Weston responded with the Garrett Planning Network as the recommended resource in “First, build a down payment.”

MSN Money, January 18, 2008 – “One of the things that everyone needs to do is check their credit report," says Sheryl Garrett, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and founder of the Garrett Planning Network. "Most times, couples, especially longtime couples, have had credit in joint names. If you don't have separate credit, you need to establish separate credit. This can affect men just as easily as women." Read more helpful tips to make good financial decisions during a divorce in “Divorce 101: Restoring your finances.“

USA Today, January 17, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, a financial planner and founder of the Garrett Planning Network, says that while she's a big fan of retiring debt-free, she doesn't think people should have all their money tied up in their house, with little cash available for unforeseen needs. Read more tips on retirement planning in “Retirement questions answered.”

USA Today, January 16, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP® has been featured on USA Today's website in an article about the retirement boom. The article contains one quote from Sheryl, but her photo is prominently displayed at the top of the online article along with 6 audio podcasts by Sheryl. Check it out in “Managing your retirement fund can be tricky.”

USA Today, January 16, 2008 – “Financial planners in the Garrett Planning Network usually offer fee-only, pay-by-the hour advice, and might be a good fit if you are a do-it-yourself investor and want a one-time check-up or regular financial reviews. Financial Planning Association offers planners for investors of all levels of financial sophistication.” This was one of the tips in “5 tips to protect your lump sum.”

Bradenton Herald, January 15, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, CFP®, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, recommended ways to skimp around the house and put that money into investments in “How to survive spiraling economy: Play a game.”

InvestmentNews, January 14, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett was quoted in the article, “Financial advisers looking for silver lining in the clouds,” to offer a positive outlook on economic downturns. "When people get nervous about the economy and their job, it actually causes them to realize they better get their stuff together. It can be a blessing for them and us," she said. 

Walton Sun, January 9, 2008 – Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, was interviewed while promoting her book Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies® in “Financial planning expert offers advice.”

Parade Magazine, January 6, 2008 –“Your biggest single asset is your ability to earn money,” says Sheryl Garrett, a financial advisor in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. “In a weaker economy, you want to strengthen your marketability.” Read “Feel Secure About Your Money” to see Sheryl’s advice on staying job-ready.