Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Edward “Ed” Downs grew up in northern New Jersey, where he graduated from Mendham High School. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ, and a Master of Business Administration from Fordham University in New York City. Ed has also earned certifications as a Registered Securities Representative, Accredited Payables Manager, and Certified Treasury Professional. Ed has been married for over twenty years and has two children.
Ed has been fortunate to spend 23 years of his life developing financial solutions for consumers and businesses while working for world-class organizations, including The Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Citigroup, and Mastercard. While at Mastercard, he taught personal money management skills to younger generations through his involvement with Junior Achievement.
Ed is passionate about helping younger generations (including his own children) learn how to manage money to become financially independent and achieve life goals. He personally developed the methods presented in his book, FOLLOWING YOUR MONEY, and has been using this playbook to achieve financial success by following his family’s money for over 20 years. Ed founded DIYmoneytrack.com as a central resource for financial know-how and as a way to stay in touch with readers who may need personalized guidance.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest (and only book thus far) is Following Your Money: The definitive money management playbook for millennials and their parents. My inspiration for writing it was my experiences talking and teaching younger generations, including my own children, about managing money. Many don’t learn it (see financial literacy stats), and most don’t apply it the right way even if they know something. I developed my own methodology and believe it will help others.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t call it unusual but I can only write in my bare feet. No socks!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Suze Orman, Elizabeth Warren, Tom Stanley/William Danko
What are you working on now?
My blog (DIYmoneytrack.com) and next book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Hard to say as brand new author, but hopefully Awesomegang. My wife and I have a pretty big social network so that helps as well.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Be passionate and proud of what you produce. Makes it easier to promote!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t finance a depreciating asset.
What are you reading now?
Online Business from Scratch – Matt Paulson
What’s next for you as a writer?
More blog posts, then second book.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
1. How to survive on a desert island (is this available..?)
2. How to build a raft
3. My book
Author Websites and Profiles
Ed Downs Website
Ed Downs Amazon Profile
Ed Downs’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account