About

Welcome! I’m Jim Hammond.
For years, many of you have known me as a tech CEO, a business mentor, a tax preparer or just the guy who loves cars, especially Corvettes and a great Italian meal. But throughout my career and my time serving our community, I’ve developed a deep passion for a different subject: building, protecting, and managing wealth.
This blog is a casual space where I share common-sense tips on investing, retirement planning, and tax strategy—written specifically for friends, family, and anyone looking to make smart moves with their money.
Why Am I Writing This?
The internet is flooded with dry, overly complex financial advice written by corporate copywriters. I wanted to build a relaxed hub where we can discuss real-world strategies that actually work. My insights are drawn from decades of first-hand experience at the intersection of business and finance:
    • The Corporate View: As a former Tech CEO, I spent years building businesses, managing complex budgets, and learning how economic trends impact real portfolios.
    • The Mentorship View: As a board member and mentor at SCORE, I help local entrepreneurs navigate the financial realities of starting and growing small businesses.
    • The Tax View: As an Advanced IRS-Certified Volunteer Tax Preparer, I spend tax seasons helping people navigate the tax code. I see exactly how much money people accidentally leave on the table due to poor tax planning.
    • The Community View: For over 10 years, I have founded and run a local community investment club. Leading this club through a decade of market ups and downs has taught me how to break down complex institutional concepts into simple, actionable strategies that everyday investors can use to grow their wealth together

My Financial Philosophy
I believe that successful investing doesn’t require a Wall Street degree—it requires discipline, a clear strategy, and a sharp eye on taxes. Whether you are wondering how to handle your upcoming Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), looking for steady income through custom annuity frameworks, or just trying to navigate changing markets, my goal is to break it down simply.
To get a feel for how I view the markets, take a look at Jim’s 18 Commandments of Investing—it’s the core blueprint I use for my own money.
Beyond the Numbers
When I’m not analyzing spreadsheets or studying the tax code, you can usually find me out on the open road or hunting down great food. Don’t worry—I haven’t abandoned my roots! You can still follow my latest road trips and restaurant finds over on the Good Eats and My Cars tabs.
Thanks for stopping by. If you want to get a quick email alert whenever I post a new financial tip or market update, make sure to drop your email in the subscription box in the sidebar.

2 thoughts on “About”

  1. Greetings Jim,

    I recently read your brief article in the EC Panther prowl. Kudos on your investment with EC. Annie is doing a tremendous job of getting the alum to give back. Your article hit the nail on the head.

    As a reminder, you graduated with my brother , John. I was two years behind you. I have spent my working career in Lorain County as part owner of Midwest Siding with Jerry Vessalo. After 52 years, we are still in business. I live half the year in Clearwater Beach with my wife JoAnne Vecchio Polutnik. I actually, was in contact with Jim Cyran a few weeks before his sudden death with questions about his donations to EC. I also did some work for your parents home on Windsor drive before the sold. If I remember, your dad bought an RV and was going to travel the country visiting his kids, correct?

    I checked out your list of of cars and it is quite impressive! I love stories of guys like you so keep up the good work! I am an investor in the stock market like you

    Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

    Mike Polutnik

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