James Clendenin

James Clendenin, a seasoned entrepreneur and financial guide, brings decades of real-world experience to HappyWallet.co, where he writes alongside his son, Riley Clendenin. As a senior who has navigated the ups and downs of building businesses and managing finances, James understands the importance of cultivating a strong Financial IQ at every stage of life. His journey began with a passion for entrepreneurship, but over the years, he realized that true success lies not just in earning money but in managing and multiplying it wisely. Through thoughtful articles and practical insights, James shares his hard-earned wisdom with Millennials and Gen Z, offering guidance on everything from smart investing to building financial resilience.

9 Unexpected Ways Van Life Beats Paying Ridiculous High Rents

March 25, 2025 by James Clendenin

Life on four wheels comes with more freedom than you’d expect.

Ditching rent to live in a van might sound wild at first, but more people are doing it—and loving it. It’s not just about saving money, though that part’s pretty sweet. It’s about gaining freedom, cutting through financial stress, and waking up to beach views or mountain air instead of noisy neighbors and a sky-high lease. For folks tired of throwing cash at landlords, van life offers something way more personal and flexible.

You don’t need a luxury Sprinter or influencer lifestyle to make it work. With some basic gear and a little planning, van life can be surprisingly comfortable—and a smart alternative to getting crushed by rent. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s rich in ways that count: space to breathe, time to explore, and a break from the pressure of the rat race. These nine unexpected perks explain why so many people are trading leases for keys to the open road.

11 Proven Strategies to Build a Personal Brand That Gets Noticed and Respected

March 24, 2025 by James Clendenin

A strong personal brand isn’t just for influencers—it’s your key to opportunities.

People don’t just buy products—they buy into people. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or working your way up the corporate ladder, having a personal brand helps you stand out, build trust, and open doors to bigger opportunities. It’s not about faking an image—it’s about shaping how people perceive you and positioning yourself as someone worth paying attention to.

Building a personal brand takes more than just posting on social media or having a nice website. It’s about consistency, authenticity, and delivering real value to your audience. The best personal brands aren’t built overnight, but with the right strategies, you can create one that commands respect, attracts opportunities, and sets you apart. If you’re ready to take control of how the world sees you, these 11 proven strategies will help you craft a brand that gets noticed—and remembered.

11 Brilliant Debit Cards That Reimburse 100% of Your ATM Fees

March 24, 2025 by James Clendenin

Stop paying to access your own money when these debit cards cover your ATM fees.

Getting hit with an ATM fee is one of the most frustrating ways to waste money. Banks and third-party ATMs love to charge for withdrawals, turning what should be a simple transaction into an unnecessary expense. Some people try to avoid fees by only using their bank’s ATMs, but that’s not always practical—especially if you travel frequently or live in an area with limited options.

Luckily, not all banks are out to nickel-and-dime you. Some debit cards fully reimburse ATM fees, whether you’re withdrawing cash at home or abroad. That means you can access your money whenever and wherever you need it without worrying about getting charged. These 11 debit cards offer some of the best ATM fee reimbursements, helping you keep more of your hard-earned cash where it belongs—in your wallet.

Overpaying for Car Insurance? These 11 Fixes Could Save You Thousands

March 24, 2025 by James Clendenin

Most drivers are wasting money on car insurance without even realizing it.

Car insurance feels like one of those annoying adult expenses you just have to accept. You pay the bill, maybe glance at the coverage once a year, and hope you never have to use it. But the truth is, many people are overpaying by hundreds—or even thousands—each year simply because they haven’t taken the time to make a few smart changes. Companies bank on your inaction. That laziness? It’s profitable for them.

The good news? Lowering your car insurance bill doesn’t have to be a complicated, hours-long ordeal. A few tweaks—like asking the right questions, shopping around, or adjusting your coverage—can lead to huge savings without sacrificing protection. You don’t need to switch companies every month or be a negotiation expert. These 11 straightforward fixes are easy to implement and could save you serious money over time.

Beware—12 Sneaky Fees You’re Paying Without Even Noticing

March 24, 2025 by James Clendenin

Your money is slipping away, and you might not even realize it.

Businesses have mastered the art of sneaking extra fees into everyday transactions, banking on the fact that most people won’t question a few extra dollars here and there. These charges are small enough to seem harmless but add up to hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars a year. Whether it’s hidden service fees, sneaky subscription charges, or vague “convenience” costs, companies are quietly draining your wallet while making it seem normal.

The worst part? Many of these fees aren’t necessary at all. They’re designed to maximize corporate profits while keeping customers in the dark. But once you know what to look for, you can stop paying for things you don’t need. These 12 sneaky fees are everywhere, buried in fine print and auto-pay settings. Spotting them is the first step—getting rid of them is the next.

11 Hidden Dangers of the Minimum Payment Trap Young People Fall Into

March 24, 2025 by James Clendenin

Paying the minimum on your credit card seems harmless—until it isn’t.

Credit card companies make minimum payments sound like a lifeline, but they’re actually a trap. Many young people fall into the habit of paying just enough to avoid late fees, not realizing they’re setting themselves up for long-term financial struggles. What seems like a small, manageable payment today can turn into years of crushing debt, keeping you stuck in a cycle where your balance never really goes down.

Minimum payments keep you in debt longer, cost you far more in interest, and make it harder to build real financial security. While it’s tempting to pay the bare minimum when money is tight, it’s one of the easiest ways to sabotage your future wealth. If you’re only making minimum payments, you need to know the risks.

Here are 11 hidden dangers of the minimum payment trap—and why getting out of it as soon as possible is the smartest financial move you can make.

15 Cities Where New Housing Laws Will Change How We Live

March 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

These cities are changing the game with bold housing reforms.

Housing laws are evolving across the country, and these changes will reshape how we live, work, and interact in urban spaces. From zoning shifts to innovative housing models, cities are paving the way for increased affordability, sustainability, and accessibility.

This list spotlights 15 cities where transformative policies are taking effect, redefining the meaning of home and community in ways that might surprise you.

Struggling With Rent? These 13 Cities Offer Affordable Housing for Young People

March 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

Finding an affordable place to live doesn’t have to feel impossible.

For young people trying to get ahead, high rent prices can feel like a never-ending battle. In major cities, the cost of housing keeps rising, making it tough to save, invest, or even enjoy basic financial security. While many urban areas seem out of reach, some cities are still offering affordable rent, strong job markets, and a decent quality of life without draining your bank account.

These 13 cities stand out for their lower cost of living, reasonable rent prices, and opportunities for young professionals looking to build their future. Whether you want a bustling downtown scene, a laid-back vibe, or a mix of both, these places provide a financial break while still offering everything you need.

If you’re tired of spending most of your paycheck on rent, it might be time to consider packing up and moving to a city where your money stretches further.