Early Life and Education
Ron Lieber grew up in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. His formative years were shaped by the challenges of his parents' divorce, which led him to become a scholarship student at Francis W. Parker School. Determined to explore life beyond the Midwest, Lieber chose Amherst College, where he discovered his love for writing while contributing to the student alumni magazine.
From Legal Newspapers to Wall Street
His career began in 1993 as a reporter for Lawyers Weekly USA in Boston, delving into legal matters that would later inform his financial insights. Inspired by the work of Edward Felsenthal, Lieber set his sights on The Wall Street Journal. His journey took him through Fast Company, Fortune, and eventually to The Wall Street Journal, where he penned the popular "Green Thumb" column.
FiLife and The New York Times
In 2007, Lieber co-founded FiLife, a personal finance website aimed at younger readers. The name, a blend of "Financial Life" and "High Life," reflected his vision of making financial literacy accessible and enjoyable. But it was his move to The New York Times in 2008 that truly catapulted him into the spotlight. As the author of the "Your Money" column, Lieber has empowered countless individuals to navigate the complexities of personal finance.
Three Gerald Loeb Awards
Lieber's writing prowess has not gone unnoticed. He is a three-time recipient of the prestigious Gerald Loeb Award for his outstanding work in personal finance journalism. His articles on student debt, the Equifax breach, and loan forgiveness have resonated with readers, sparking conversations and driving change.
The Opposite of Spoiled
But Lieber's impact extends beyond columns and awards. His book, The Opposite of Spoiled: Raising Kids Who Are Grounded, Generous, and Smart About Money, struck a chord with parents worldwide. It's a guide to instilling financial values in the next generation, emphasizing empathy, gratitude, and financial literacy.
A Personal Touch
Outside the world of finance, Lieber shares his life with Jodi Kantor, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist at The New York Times. Together, they raise their two daughters in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn.
Wrapping up
Ron Lieber's journey is one of curiosity, compassion, and commitment. His words have the power to transform financial anxiety into empowerment, one reader at a time. As we navigate the complexities of money, we can count on Ron Lieber to be our trusted guide.