Ryan M. Coulter, CFP®, CLTC®, RICP®

Ryan is a thoughtful leader in our industry who from the time I met him was a student of the business with a burning desire to gain as much knowledge as possible, he has devoted himself to always striving to better serve his clients. Learn from his wisdom and you too can have financial balance and peace of mind.

We are fortunate to have people like Ryan to share his experience and wisdom. I’m confident as you read this book you will find it most meaningful to have well organized financial power to leave or carry on your legacy.

Embrace this book and your financial life and that of your family’s life will be changed forever for the better.

I just finished reading Ryan Coulter’s book Stop Following the Rules and had one word to describe it: WOW. 

While many people know the value of having a financial advisor, this book clearly explains the why, the what, and yes…even the how. I originally thought I would skim it since my background is in the industry, but instead I found myself reading every page, every story, gaining clarity on concepts/myths we’ve heard for decades, and even reflecting on what I’ve done well and where I still want to grow.

This is a book I’ll use as a valuable tool and resource, and for anyone who picks it up, think of it as a gift to both your present and your future. 

In “Stop Following the Rules,” Ryan Coulter nails it by showing folks how to break free from the outdated myths that keep so many trapped in financial uncertainty—myths like blindly maxing out your 401(k) or paying off every last debt before building real protection. As someone who’s spent decades preaching the math and science of retirement, I love how Ryan emphasizes starting with solid protection and liquidity, because without that foundation, all the accumulation in the world won’t guarantee you a happy, stress-free life in your golden years. He dives into the psychology of our money decisions with real world smarts, reminding us that emotions and life events can derail even the best-laid plans if you’re not prepared. This book isn’t just theory; it’s packed with practical strategies for managing debt wisely, optimizing cash flow, and creating sustainable income streams that echo what I’ve always said—true retirement happiness comes from guaranteed security, not gambling on the market. Ryan’s approach to asset protection and rethinking conventional advice is a game-changer, especially for families who want to retire with paychecks and playchecks, surrounded by loved ones without financial worries. If you’re tired of following rules that don’t work, grab this book—it’ll equip you to design a financial life that’s resilient, flexible, and truly yours. Don’t worry, read happy!