Dave Ramsey facts for kids
David Lawrence Ramsey III (born September 3, 1960) is an American radio host who gives advice about money. He helps people learn how to manage their finances. He is known for his radio show, The Ramsey Show, and for starting a company called Ramsey Solutions. Dave Ramsey has also written several books, including the popular The Total Money Makeover.
Quick facts for kids
Dave Ramsey
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Ramsey in 2023
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| Born | September 3, 1960 Maryville, Tennessee, US |
| Occupation | Personal finance consultant, radio show host, author |
| Alma mater | University of Tennessee (BS) |
| Subject | Personal finance |
| Notable works | The Total Money Makeover |
| Spouse | Sharon Ramsey (m. 1982) |
| Children | 3 |
Contents
Early Life and Education
Dave Ramsey was born on September 3, 1960, in Maryville, Tennessee. His parents worked with real estate. He grew up in Nashville and went to Antioch High School.
When he was 18, Dave took an exam to work with real estate. He started buying and selling properties while studying at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He earned a degree in finance and real estate.
Career Highlights
Dave Ramsey built a large real estate business by 1986. His properties were worth over $4 million. However, the bank that lent him money changed owners. The new owners asked for all the money back at once. Dave could not pay, so he had to file for bankruptcy in 1988. This meant he had to legally declare he could not pay his debts.
While he was getting his own finances back in order, Dave started helping people at his church with their money problems. In 1991, more and more people wanted his advice. So, he started a company called the Lampo Group, which is now Ramsey Solutions. He also wrote his first book, Financial Peace, in 1992.
The Ramsey Show
By 1996, Dave Ramsey was the only host of his radio show. Three years later, the show was renamed The Dave Ramsey Show. It became very popular across the country.
In 2007, his radio show also started airing on television. The Dave Ramsey Show was on Fox Business until 2010.
Financial Peace University
In 1994, Dave Ramsey created Financial Peace University. This is a course with nine lessons about personal finance. It teaches people how to manage their money, get out of debt, and save for the future.
Financial Advice and Views
Dave Ramsey has strong opinions about money. He believes in paying off debts quickly. He also advises people not to use credit cards. He often shows that he only carries debit cards, his driver's license, and a permit.
One of his main strategies is called the "debt snowball" method. With this method, you pay off your smallest debts first. This helps you feel like you are making progress. Then, you use that momentum to pay off bigger debts.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dave Ramsey shared his views on public health measures. He also spoke about government financial aid. He believed people should focus on their own financial strength.
Personal Life
Dave Ramsey married his wife, Sharon, on June 26, 1982. They have three children: Denise Whittemore, Rachel Cruze, and Daniel Ramsey. All three of their children work for Ramsey Solutions.
In 2015, Dave Ramsey was honored by being added to the National Radio Hall of Fame.
As of 2018, Dave Ramsey's net worth was estimated to be $55 million. He is an evangelical Christian and describes himself as a conservative. He believes that people should be responsible for their own money.
Books by Dave Ramsey
- Financial Peace (1992)
- More Than Enough (1999)
- Financial Peace Revisited (2002)
- The Total Money Makeover (2003)
- Dave Ramsey's Complete Guide to Money (2011)
- EntreLeadership (2011)
- Smart Money Smart Kids (with Rachel Cruze, 2014)
- The Legacy Journey (2014)
- Baby Steps Millionaires (2021)
- Build a Business You Love (2025)
