I took Ryan’s advice. I called my credit card company and they lowered my interest rate from 21.99% to 16.99%. It's a 1 year plan, but it's still something to me. It’s thanks to you that happened. Thank you for continuing to help people like me.

Thank you for the course.  It was very informative and I learned you can check your credit report annually without penalty, and dispute your credit issues.  Ryan, you have so much spirit. Love it. You’re amazing. I also want to thank your staff for their dedication and hard work too. I also want to thank your staff for their dedication and hard work too. If you come to NY, I would love to meet you in person and take a photo with you (with your permission), and get an autograph of your book. 

The webinar session today was awesome, extremely motivating and just what I need at this time to propel me forward in my work, home-buying and more. I’ll be connecting the Financial Wellness & Home Mortgage Program. Thanks again for the inspiration today because the idea for lowering my interest rates grew out of the session.

Ryan, man, this webinar is lifesaving

 I am a new 1199 member my hire date was in January 2018 and I am still learning how the benefits work, I find the webinars extremely helpful.

My wife pays the bills and once in a while, a bill is short. I feel like financially, we’re hanging by a thread! …Thanks for the couples tips and steps. We’re working to change this.

I love the workshop; it is very helpful. I also love your style because what you say and your advice helps me. Thank you and see you soon in the next webinar!

Thank you for the course yesterday.  It was very informative and learned you can annually check your credit report without penalty and dispute or explain your credit issues.  Ryan, you have so much spirit. Love it. You’re amazing. I also want to thank your staff for their dedication and hard work too. If you come to NY, I would love to meet you in person and take a photo with you (if I have your permission), and get an autograph of your book.

I really enjoyed this webinar series and I'm really excited to learn more and become financially independent. Thank you so much! I've been reading “Secrets of Six Figure Women” by Barbara Stanny, and then this webinar happened. I definitely see this as a sign,  so thank you!!!

Good evening, Mr. Mack. I have been an 1199member for 14 years. I really enjoyed the session tonight. Thank you for your time. I will share the info with my co-workers! 

Hello Mr. Ryan Mack. My name is Kown. I had the pleasure chatting with you on your webinar. Thanks for the reading materials and literature you provided.

Hi Ryan, I followed up on your point regarding not borrowing money from a 401k or 403b-- you stated there is too much risk. Thank you for your time.

Thanks for sending me the financial questionnaire for couples!!

I appreciate all the information you have given over this past week. Especially the information on mutual funds and the financial questions to ask my fiancé. Thank you again.

Good Afternoon, Mr. Mack. Thank you and your team for the financial seminar series. It was very informative and well presented.

I just started watching the series which has been so informative thus far. 

Thank you for the info you shared in the webinar Wednesday. I have 20 plus years within 1199 already and have another 20 before I retire. I’m working on saving towards helping my son pay for college. Thank you for your time and sharing your knowledge.

By following all your advice, my credit goes from 720 to 733.

Ryan shows passion, vision, and faith with sound, practical advice to help you get on the road to prosperity. A wise investment of your time, this book makes it easy to see how you, too, can become destined for success in life, no matter what your current situation may be. A wonderful book from a good citizen of the world, my colleague, Mr. Ryan Mack.

Ryan Mack’s work is a wonderfully positive voice in the midst of today’s gloom. It is a reassertion of the possibility of the American dream, which so many have stopped believing in. Not only is this exceptionally talented person imparting critical life lessons to those in need, but he is also setting an example for all of us to start believing again in what has made this country great.

Ryan Mack makes what can be a pretty scary subject—getting your financial house in order—attainable and understandable. I trust him, his instincts, and his experience with money. You should too. This book will make you more confident in your future by giving you the tools to make the smart decisions you need. Ryan Mack has often told me that your financial future is not something that just happens to you; you have to make it happen. This book does that. Bravo, Ryan, for making our village a little smarter.

Ryan Mack gets it… true economic empowerment for all of America is more than just knowledge of stocks and bonds. It is about how we think, our faith in a brighter tomorrow, and how we treat each other. This book is just what this country needs to move forward.

Lots of financial journalists and experts preach the gospel of financial literacy from ivory towers, distant corporate perches, and lofty media mountaintops. Ryan Mack does that and much more, going down into the valleys of our communities and neighborhoods to do the hard work of ministry to the people who need it most. Living in the Village: Build Your Financial Future and Strengthen Your Community is yet another manifestation of Mack’s passion and considerable expertise in pursuit of his mission. Yes, you may know him from Black Enterprise, CNBC, and CNN. But the real Ryan Mack is found within the pages of this book and in the communities he serves. Reading this book will not only help you—it will indeed uplift our entire village. Buy at least two; give the second copy to someone you know who desperately needs what Mack is offering: a path to hope and freedom.

In Living in the Village, Ryan Mack offers the common-sense roadmap that Americans need today to get their finances in order. This is not just about ourselves, but about being in a position to create and pass on wealth to our children or help others philanthropically. If we don't heed Ryan's advice now, then we will have no future.

Against a backdrop of blame—blame the banks, the homeowners, the credit card companies, the government—Ryan Mack has written a practical and inspirational book that shows individuals, in all different economic circumstances, how to take control of their finances. It is sophisticated, yet highly accessible and useful. No matter how much you know, it can help you; and no matter how limited your financial literacy, it is relevant. Read it to be both informed and inspired.

 

Living in the Village is a practical resource for achieving financial success. With energy and true passion, Mack provides the tools to help you navigate your way out of debt and build your own personal financial wealth in a way that can benefit both you and your community. The book not only helps readers become financially literate; it empowers them, providing the ability to make proactive decisions rather than relying on knee-jerk reactions.

It is truly an honor for me to recommend such a young and inspiring brother like Ryan. The work he is doing with our youth in the financial arena is a springboard to the development of strong and productive young people from within the inner city. Ryan is the classic example of how it takes a village to raise a child.

Top qualities: Expert, On Time, High Integrity

Ryan spoke to a group of entrepreneurs that I assembled in 2007. Many of these folks were already extremely savvy when it came to money, wealth-building, and financial planning. After just 10 minutes of hearing Ryan C. Mack, hands flew up, and jaws dropped. He brings so much knowledge to the table and is so connected and good-natured, you can't help but want to be around this man.

Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity

As a business professional, I have sought the advice of Mr. Ryan Mack for customized financial analysis and recommendations related to debt restructuring, family financial planning, investment management, and related fiduciary responsibilities. Simultaneously, he has provided great opportunities for educational forums and community service initiatives where we, as business professionals, can leverage our industry-specific financial knowledge to educate and guide the business leaders of the future. I highly endorse Mr. Ryan Mack (and his company, The Optimum Institute of Economic Empowerment, Inc.) for Financial Strategy Consultation and Advisory.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Ryan on my radio show in January 2011. We discussed his efforts to encourage financial literacy and the various ways he promotes bringing information to people. I was impressed with his sincerity and obvious commitment to making a difference in the community. Ryan shares his expertise in such a positive way. I highly recommend him and his various organizations. Supporting Ryan Mack is a sure bet!

Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Good Value

Mr. Mack was hired two years ago to conduct a financial (money management) workshop for the clients and families in the supportive housing program I direct. Mr. Mack is an intelligent and impressive gentleman. He was a consummate professional who truly knew his craft and was an expert on many financial (money management) issues. The families and clients thoroughly enjoyed the workshop he conducted.

Ryan Mack is a consummate professional, a dynamic leader, and a spokesperson who always advocates for financial literacy. He has structured and delivered many outstanding financial services programs, teaching everyday people in several communities throughout New York City the basics of financial management and the importance of financial literacy. His service to these communities has impacted the lives of so many New Yorkers. I highly recommend Ryan Mack to your organization.

As a member of the New York City school board, I was invited to attend a training session to assist homeless youth in obtaining life lessons on money management. I sat in the room as an observer, and a room filled with young high school kids, largely from homeless shelters, had their minds awakened to the importance of understanding their financial futures. Ryan Mack, clearly an articulate and engaged speaker, did not shy away from the difficult task of keeping the attention of young people with varying degrees of ability and interest. It was not an easy job, yet he persevered, providing information, opportunity, and hope for a better day to a lot of young people who otherwise would not likely have been exposed to Ryan's real-world, relevant messages. His commitment was very evident.

Ryan Mack has a wonderful rapport with people of all ages. He has a special talent for working with young men who need more guidance and support within the African American community. Ryan has a very sharp mind and is perceptive in his ability to read people and situations. This unique quality allows him to develop viable financial plans tailored to each individual's circumstances. I am certain that Ryan will continue to be a very accomplished business person and succeed in his philanthropic work. He possesses the right combination of drive, intelligence, and interpersonal skills to excel.

I am inspired by the efforts, vision, and quality of service provided to the community by Ryan and his fellow organizational directors and supporters. I embrace the efforts that are the hallmark of the OIEE team and have joined his team to help spread the word and movement of education literacy and community development through awareness and workshops. His book, Living in the Village, is a template for success for individuals, and I highly recommend it!

I interviewed Ryan Mack on my talk radio show Afterthoughts. Ryan was both informative and empowering, teaching on financial literacy. Since that interview, there have been over one thousand downloads of the show, drawing listeners from all over the continental U.S., Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, and Brazil, among others. I highly recommend the work of Ryan Mack, especially in this day of economic troubles. He provides realistic, practical advice that helps people climb out of negative financial situations

As the Managing Partner for Mosaic Studios and Mosaic Entertainment Group, we have developed several television projects. Currently, we are working on a project focused on teaching people how to be fiscally responsible. We needed a host who was passionate, charismatic, and respected, and after conducting our due diligence, we found no one more suitable than Ryan Mack. He is well-informed, well-respected, and brings a sense of integrity and authenticity to an industry that is often lacking in both. As we move forward with the development of this project, we hope to secure Ryan Mack as our host so he can bring his knowledge and passion to the masses.

Top qualities: Expert, Good Value, High Integrity

“The Economic Literacy Coalition worked with Ryan at the Black Church Means Business Conference back in 2007, and it was a wonderful experience. Ryan tactfully engaged our youth about financial literacy and economic opportunities that will affect their future. I personally recommend Ryan as an expert speaker.”

Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity

“Ryan's work is exemplary. He is an expert in financial literacy and goes above and beyond to provide outstanding service. Ryan is deeply dedicated to his mission of educating and empowering everyday people. He is a powerful and phenomenal speaker who energizes and inspires his audiences. I love working with Ryan and highly recommend him.”

“Friends, about four years ago, I had the opportunity, through a long-time friend (Congressman Towns of Brooklyn), to meet this dynamic young man, Ryan Mack. Ryan is full of energy, and his work is making our community better. He is serious and successful because he cares and is making an effort to pay it forward by providing very young people with the knowledge required for financial empowerment. I participated in civil rights demonstrations almost 50 years ago to make our world better. Today, the needs are different. Today, youth need the knowledge that Ryan provides to make their dreams come true and to improve the future of our society. I challenge every reader of this recommendation to consider what you can contribute to Ryan's efforts (e.g., prayer, time, books, money, or other support). We all have something to give. Please give TODAY!”

“I am a huge fan of the work of Ryan Mack and his team! They do a tremendous job working with people across all socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, educating them about the dynamic relationship we all have with money. Any organization considering Ryan for a speaking engagement will not be disappointed; he has an amazing gift for capturing an audience's attention, addressing their points of pain or opportunity, and inspiring action. It is a blessing to both know and work with Ryan.”

“Ryan is a results-driven, charismatic yet humble leader who always encourages growth and development among his colleagues, subordinates, and fellow individuals. It was a pleasure working with him on his book, and I look forward to working with him again in the very near future.”

“Ryan Mack is a visionary young man who has touched the lives of young people in a profound and creative way. I have had Ryan work with the male students here at Medgar Evers College, and the feedback I have received is outstanding. He knows how to address core issues in a manner that is always inspiring and informative, never condescending or smug. Students have told me that because of Ryan Mack, they view their relationship with money and finances in an entirely different way. I would recommend Ryan Mack to anyone interested in truly connecting with people on financial literacy.”

I was first introduced to Ryan Mack's work through Dr. Cornel West, who recommended that I support Brother Mack's efforts as I sought financial independence. I have purchased several copies of Living in the Village for my mentees and friends. Through the Optimum Capital Management website, Mr. Mack has answered all of my queries. It is always a pleasure doing business with him. I highly recommend his services.

Ryan Mack is an insightful individual who aided my organization in developing and executing our strategic plan. Ryan's ability to hone in on our corporate needs and help us solve them is excellent. It is my pleasure to recommend Mr. Mack.

Ryan Mack is a great individual who, even as president, is never hard to reach. His commitment to strengthening and empowering the next generation is admirable.

Ryan Mack is a charismatic, highly effective leader who draws upon a wealth of knowledge to help people take control of their lives and careers. He demystifies the world of finance, making it accessible to ordinary folks, and inspires young people. In this way, he has become a valuable resource to the greater community.

I first met Ryan when a young entrepreneur group to which he belonged held a meeting at the Vigilante offices. Ryan followed up with an offer to provide a financial planning seminar for our employees. His deep insight into the financial issues facing our young and mostly minority staff was impressive. Ryan’s understanding that their needs would begin at the most basic levels of financial planning and responsibility was delivered without a hint of condescension. In the ensuing years, I have followed Ryan’s career from a distance, noting his increased visibility at higher levels as media and economic experts began to recognize his considerable talents. Ryan embodies not only knowledge and talent but also commitment, empathy, and compassion. He is a bright light, and it is a pleasure to recommend him.

Ryan Mack's approach to financial literacy is extremely sound and comprehensive. By teaching youth the principles and knowledge required to be successful in today's world, he is performing a needed service that will benefit not only the youth but our entire community. In addition, his bold stand against those who might exploit the community, such as Russell Simmons and Magic Johnson, shows the youth not to be easily conned by those who were once trusted.

I can tell you what a wonderful financial planner Ryan is, and I can also tell you how smart he is, but what I want to emphasize is that he is one of the few individuals with a pure heart dedicated to helping his community. Intention matters most!

I have had the privilege of collaborating with Ryan Mack for over 4 years regarding Optimum Capital Management. Ryan is a focused leader, an outstanding strategic thinker, trustworthy, and a good friend. I have witnessed Ryan’s investment in human capital through the kids he mentors pay dividends. I highly recommend Ryan as a person of outstanding moral character.

Ryan partnered with our Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) team to deliver a Financial Empowerment track at our Black Student Minority Event for NYMetro-based high schoolers for 3 years in a row. His team’s track was consistently rated as one of the best sets of sessions by the students and other participants. Ryan's passion, determination, and vision are refreshing and contagious. I highly recommend Ryan and his team.

I would like to take this time to recommend Ryan Mack and the Optimum Institute of Economic Empowerment. Whether working in New York or Michigan, I’ve witnessed him create value in the communities and among the people who have worked with him. As a fellow Alpha, I’ve always been proud of his success and his service to our nation—a foundation on which we all stand.

Ryan is an expert in his field of financial management, but he understands that to maximize the benefit of any amount of money—large or small—"knowledge is power." His approach is not top-down, merely providing a checklist of tasks; instead, he focuses on teaching the basic concepts and how all the pieces fit together. I've seen how participants in his workshops leave with practical, easy-to-understand techniques that they can immediately apply. Ryan is also adept at turning specific financial problems faced by individuals into learning experiences for everyone in the room. He effectively motivates and empowers people to take control of their financial management by showing them how small steps can lead to significant improvements over time. You have to admire and respect someone who is willing to share their knowledge and convincingly demonstrate that managing your money successfully doesn't require genius-level intellect.

Ryan Mack has played a significant role in my personal and professional understanding of the financial markets, investments, and savings. Mack is very thorough, personable, and dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages.

Ryan has been a tremendous resource for my company over the years. His business and market insights are always spot on. Whether it's advice about business strategy or Wall Street trends, his perspectives have been very helpful at various stages of our business growth.

Ryan partnered with the Money Unit at CNN to provide on-air analysis and commentary about financial issues. I was always impressed with not only his knowledge and astute reasoning, but also his genuine kindness and affable, collaborative attitude. It was also my pleasure to witness some of his community work with the All About Business club, where he led club members to present a workshop about entrepreneurship and personal finance to people living in and near a New York City public housing community. There are few people who combine intelligence, critical thinking, generosity, and charisma to such great effect. I highly recommend Ryan as someone I would be thrilled to work with any time.

First, I would like to say that Ryan is a very dynamic individual who is focused on empowering everyone he comes in contact with, regardless of socioeconomic status or ethnicity, in an effort to help them become more financially educated and achieve financial freedom. Ryan and I attended the University of Michigan as classmates and also participated together in a high school motivational workshop for youth in Romulus, Michigan, several years back. I am very proud of Ryan and highly recommend him for any leadership role due to his undying efforts to positively impact any business or community.

Ryan Mack is one of those individuals who has returned to his community to add value and provide essential resources. He has been instrumental in bringing financial literacy education to our youth at a time when it is crucial for advancing our community. I highly recommend Ryan Mack and his services to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.

Sincerely, Eula M. Young, COO Griot's Roll
Film Production & Services Inc. (212) 281-2286

Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Creative

“The Allan Houston Legacy Foundation had the pleasure of working with Ryan and his nonprofit organization several years ago in conjunction with our 'Father Knows Best' community program. Ryan and his team made a presentation to program participants about financial literacy and responsibility, which was one of the highlights of our weekend together. I've enjoyed seeing Ryan's success over the years and would highly recommend his youth financial literacy campaign (www.allaboutbiz.org) to other organizations and individuals seeking a fun and interactive spin on financial literacy training.”

Working with the Optimum Institute of Economic Empowerment, led by Ryan Mack, has been one of the most informative and rewarding associations I have had. Ryan gave of his time and talent each year for over 5 years to help enrich the lives of minority high school students with his financial knowledge and experience at Microsoft's BAM Student Day. It was always difficult for us to find a room large enough to accommodate the number of people that came to hear him and his fantastic team.

As an analyst at an Investment Bank and volunteer, I had the opportunity to work directly with Ryan Mack, as President of The Optimum Institute of Economic Empowerment, Inc., through his involvement with their various financial empowerment programs. Ryan was an integral leader and advisor to myself and other employees from my firm. He provided clear guidance and objectives for a team of financial empowerment volunteers. Ryan plays an important role in the professional development of other members of OIEE and I believe he is a tremendous asset to his organization and community.

Ryan never ceases to amaze me. He is an extraordinary businessman who can articulate complex financial and economic issues in a way that is tailored to his audience. Whether he's speaking on CNN or before a church congregation in Detroit, MI, Ryan is engaging, informative, honest, and provides the audience with tools to take the 'next steps,' empowering them to make better financial decisions. I also admire the fact that Ryan is outspoken on serious issues of local and national concern. He is not afraid to openly disagree with public figures on issues of national importance or publicly question financial practices that target those less financially savvy, the underemployed, and/or the poor. I do not hesitate to recommend Ryan as a businessman, financial/economic expert, and motivational speaker. If you're interested in learning more about Ryan as an educator and speaker, I would also encourage you to read his book, Living in the Village. You can purchase it on Amazon.

I have had the privilege to work with OIEE for a number of years now, and Mr. Mack has delivered time and time again with subject matter experts in the field of personal and business finance. His message is appealing and leaves participants not only with the resources to drive forward but also with the will to make positive changes in their lives and their businesses. Mr. Mack has a cadre of subject matter experts who can appeal to a diverse market. If you only have one opportunity to make a lasting impression and to get your message across, you should choose Optimum if Optimum results are your end game. I would highly recommend this corporation and will gladly do business again with Mr. Mack.

Ryan Mack is an energetic and purpose-driven individual who brings value to the lives of others. He is committed to breaking mental barriers and transforming the lives of everyday people through financial literacy and education.

Ryan’s focus proves to build, empower, inspire, and change the face of communities nationally. He is notably dedicated to the cause of educating young people, specifically in the areas of financial empowerment. A financial advisor working with many prominent and renowned clients, Ryan Mack remains a humble and remarkable role model for young men to pattern after. He demonstrates poise, intelligence, and a strong sense of self while empowering communities nationally through coordinating workshops and economic initiatives which teach principles of financial power and literacy. Ryan Mack is a phenomenal speaker—both engaging and inspiring! He charitably lends his support, time, and knowledge to informing and educating our young people. As the recipient of Tom Joyner's 'Hardest Working Financial Advisor Award' for his efforts to empower the community with the crucial life skills of financial literacy, Ryan Mack IS Making The Difference! I am honored to be connected with such a young man of integrity, superior character, generosity, and intelligence!

Working with Ryan has been both a joy and a valuable learning experience. His exceptional reputation in financial education is well-deserved. Ryan’s genuine passion and commitment to community empowerment are evident in his work. His dedication to combating financial illiteracy and his inspiring thought leadership make him a standout in the industry. I highly recommend Ryan for his business acumen, financial expertise, and humanitarian efforts

Ryan understands his market and how it can benefit you in the future. He is dedicated to helping people gain financial knowledge and grow their businesses. As a reliable and reputable source in his field, Ryan’s social values are impeccable. I strongly recommend him to any individual or company looking to improve their social and financial standing.

Ryan is my go-to expert for understanding all aspects of finance and economics. We met several years ago, and I have followed his career with great interest. What I most admire about Ryan is his dedication to increasing financial, economic, and business awareness within the urban community. He has a remarkable ability to simplify complex concepts and guide individuals toward achieving a solid financial future. Given our current economic climate, his knowledge is incredibly timely. I look forward to collaborating with Ryan on new projects, including content for Noir Woman News and several financial workshops for minorities and women nationally in 2012.

Ryan Mack is knowledgeable about the financial market and truly understands the needs of his clients. He is personable, professional, and dedicated to delivering exceptional service. His attention to detail and follow-through set him apart from the competition. I highly recommend Ryan’s services to anyone seeking financial advice or looking to improve their financial literacy.

Ryan is simply one of the most dynamic financial experts in the country. His public speaking skills are
incredible. I have learned a great deal working for his non-profit program.

I’ve had the privilege of working with Ryan Mack for years, and his impact is truly remarkable. Ryan combines deep financial expertise with genuine compassion, making complex topics accessible and actionable. His commitment to empowering individuals through financial literacy is evident in everything he does, from his engaging workshops to his insightful book. Ryan’s ability to transform financial struggles into educational opportunities is inspiring, and his dedication to community betterment is unparalleled. I highly recommend Ryan for his exceptional knowledge, dedication, and ability to make a meaningful difference.

I have collaborated with Ryan Mack on several occasions and have consistently been impressed by his dedication and expertise. As the head of the Optimum Institute for Economic Empowerment (OIEE), Ryan demonstrates exceptional integrity, comprehensive knowledge of finance, and strong leadership skills. His commitment to teaching and empowering others is evident in every project. Ryan's passion for financial education and his ability to lead and inspire make him a tremendous asset to any organization. I highly recommend Ryan and OIEE for their outstanding contributions to financial literacy.

I've been working with the Take Charge program for a few months and it's helped me get a hold on my finances tremendously. After helping me with my budget and organize my debt, Ryan spent many hours helping me to negotiate my debt. Altogether I've cut more than $1000 from my expenses per month. Working with him has boosted my credit score and helped me get approved for the apartment of my dreams. Every member would be very wise to participate in this program.

Working with Ryan through the Take charge program has truly been an eye-opening experience. He helped me to organize my debt on a spreadsheet and is helping to negotiate the various items of debt one at a time. I once was thinking about bankruptcy, but I see a light at the end of the tunnel to be able to pat off my debt without bankruptcy. We have a long way to go, but the support means a lot. Other members need to use these services!

My husband and I have been participating in 1199 SEIU financial literacy services since 2017. We have attended All of the "Take charge of your Finances" workshops and LOVE them. We have eliminated all credit card debt and both of our credit scores are at or above 800. We have savings for emergencies prudent reserver (at least 6 months), education/profesiional development, and vacation. Ryan ha helped us establish a retirement plan, contribute to our retirement fund, and strategically save for the down payment of a home. Despite the traumas of the pandemic as a frontline hospital worker and family income loss, we have used Ryan's workshops to meet our needs without deprivation and contribute to our dream of owning a home. we now have weekly "financial dates" where we start with gratitude for each other and end with a loving activity. This continues to ground us in thi pandemic. We are so grateful for Ryan he keeps it real and generously support us. He is a fund of wisdon and devoted of giving back to the community. I highly recommend this series for anyone looking to improve their finances - attend all and ask all the question!