964. A Day in the Life: What's It Really Like to Be a Personal Financial Coach and Educator?

“High school was the first big turning point in my life. I attended Lane Tech College Prep High School–a 4-year public magnet high school on the north side of Chicago with 4,500 students. While I came from a fairly large neighborhood in the city, the first day I walked into Lane Tech as a freshman I was scared stiff. It was my first time being immersed in such a large demographic of people and it opened up my eyes to a wide range of ethnicities, and backgrounds with strikingly different beliefs, and opinions and values. I quickly realized that for all the seeming dissimilarities that every one of us is basically the same. We each want the same things: an opportunity to work hard, earn our place in this world and create a meaningful life and career for ourselves and those we love. I also learned right off the bat that everyone has their own very unique talents across a huge spectrum of abilities. My four years there were, and still are, some of the most cherished memories of my entire life. I’m happy to say that there is a very active alumni association of over 20 thousand individuals, and I often go back and visit for various alumni events.”

Raymond Giese helps people align their purpose, their passions, and their paycheck to achieve financial freedom. After a corporate career of 30+ years, he has devoted his “encore career” to pass on what he has learned to help people realize their dreams. Ray earned a Master of Science Degree in Personal Finance from Kansas State University and provides coaching and education services to individuals and families as a Certified Financial Planner Professional, Certified Career Services Provider, and a Highlands Certified Consultant. Ray enjoys spending time with family, golf, traveling in his RV, and leading people to “best fit” careers and improved personal finances.