Dave Ramsey

David Lawrence Ramsey III was born on September 3, 1960, in Maryville, Tennessee. Growing up in the Antioch neighborhood of Nashville, his parents were involved in the real estate industry. Ramsey demonstrated an early interest in real estate, taking the real estate exam at age 18 and acquiring properties while pursuing his Bachelor of Science degree in finance and real estate from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. By 1986, his real estate portfolio was valued at over $4 million. However, a financial setback occurred when his primary lender called in all his promissory notes, leading him to file for chapter 7 bankruptcy in 1988.

Following his bankruptcy, Ramsey began providing financial counseling at his church. Recognizing a growing demand for such guidance, he established the Lampo Group in 1991, which is now known as Ramsey Solutions, to offer professional financial counseling. In 1992, he self-published his first book, ‘Financial Peace’. His radio show, initially co-hosted, transitioned to ‘The Dave Ramsey Show’ in 1999, becoming nationally syndicated. In 1994, he introduced Financial Peace University, a nine-lesson course on personal finance. From 2007 to 2010, Ramsey also hosted a television show, ‘The Dave Ramsey Show’, on Fox Business. Over his career, he has authored multiple books, including ‘The New York Times’ bestseller, ‘The Total Money Makeover’ (2003).

Ramsey advocates for a “debt snowball” method to pay off debts and discourages the use of credit cards, prioritizing financial independence and wealth accumulation. His company, Ramsey Solutions, offers various tools and resources, including budgeting apps like EveryDollar and financial advisory services through RamseyTrusted pros. He was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2015. As of 2018, his net worth was estimated at $55 million, and he continues to influence millions through his media platforms and educational programs, emphasizing practical steps for financial peace and stability.