Investing can feel intimidating, but it’s a critical step toward financial independence. In the final episode of the Making Money Real series, Dr. Kristen Carioti, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Mount Mary University, breaks down the fundamentals of investing. With her expertise in economics and passion for financial education, Dr. Carioti shares actionable strategies to make investing accessible and approachable for everyone. From understanding the difference between saving and investing to exploring the appeal of cryptocurrency, this episode equips listeners with the tools to confidently take their first steps into the world of investing. Whether you’re a college finance instructor or someone looking to grow your financial knowledge, this episode is packed with insights to help you or your students succeed.

What We Talk About
Here’s what’s covered in the episode:

• Saving vs. Investing: Why investing is essential for long-term financial freedom.
• Beginner-Friendly Strategies: The power of dollar-cost averaging, index funds, and automating contributions.
• Making Investing Accessible: How to help students see themselves as investors and take their first steps.
• Cryptocurrency: Its appeal, risks, and why it’s more of a hobby than a retirement plan.
• Practical Classroom Applications: Guiding students through setting up accounts, understanding options, and seeing the magic of compounding.
• Empowering Students: Why financial freedom is achievable for everyone, regardless of their starting point.

About the Author
Dr. Kristen Carioti is a Sage author, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Mount Mary University, and a passionate advocate for financial literacy. With over two decades of teaching experience, she specializes in personal finance, applied economics, and creating inclusive learning environments. Dr. Carioti is dedicated to equipping students with the tools they need to build lasting financial independence, inspiring them to think of themselves as savvy investors and confident decision-makers. 

Beyond academics, she enjoys weightlifting, journaling, and spending time with her family. Her textbook, Introduction to Personal Finance: A Step-by-Step Guide to Financial Freedom, empowers learners to make informed financial choices with clarity and confidence. 

This episode brought to you by Sage Vantage. Learn more at collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage.