General Sessions

General Session I: Money Makes Me Crazy! How About You?

Presenter: Edward McLyman, Apexx Behavioral Solutions Group

An entertaining perspective on behavioral finance based on the presenter’s own fieldwork and published observations in Money Makes Me Crazy! A Prescription for Money Sanity. This energetic session will discuss how people are not physiologically hardwired to work well with money. Human biology, culture and social beliefs prevent sound money management. Attendees will gain insight into the field of behavioral finance, as well as become introduced to a behavioral model for better money management outcomes for use with their students/clients.

General Session II: Financial Literacy Around the World

Panelists: Linda Jack, Financial Educator and Youth Policy Advisor

Michael Reyes, Money Tree Asia Pacific, LTD

Hidde van der Veer, Aflatoun Foundation (Child Savings International)

We often hear about financial literacy efforts in the U.S., but what about abroad? This engaging panel will discuss three different international efforts (United Kingdom, Malaysia and Ghana) and the results they have produced. Reviewing their experiences and research findings, the panelists will also discuss the common pedagogy used in financial education as well as emerging ideas in the field being tested in other countries. Attendees will come away with new strategies and tactics for implementing effective financial education in their communities.

General Session III: Managing Credit: The “New Normal”

Presenter: Caryn Kaiser, Chase Card Services

As research continues to show changing consumer sentiment and financial behavior, how can and should financial educators work with consumers to help ensure they are borrowing mindfully? Consumers are thinking differently about their financial habits: paying down their debts, saving more and adopting practical spending approaches. To succeed, consumers need game plans that work for them. This informative session will provide insights on helping consumers manage their spending and credit card usage, highlighting available tools and resources that financial educators and counselors can use to guide consumers toward responsible spending and borrowing habits.