Author: Emma Caplan-Fisher

A video showing a heated exchange between an Evanston, Illinois, restaurant owner and a customer has sparked a broader conversation about tipping culture in America.

Kenny Chou, who owns Table to Stix Ramen, admits he lost his temper on April 19 when he confronted the customer outside his restaurant for not leaving a tip. The dispute was captured on a smart phone and spread quickly on social media.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

Chou now regrets “bringing shame to my wife as a husband, as an owner. At the same time, to my mom and dad,” he reflected to CBS News Chicago in a story published April 24.

The incident has stoked debate over a question that seems to grow more divisive by the day: when is tipping expected and when is it optional?

Online fallout and owner’s apology

Backlash following the video was swift. The restaurant deactivated its social media accounts and stopped taking calls. Yelp was also closely monitoring its review page. Messages written in chalk appeared on the sidewalk outside the restaurant accusing the establishment of being anti-Black, according to the local broadcaster.

Chou says the confrontation began when he followed the customer, described as a regular, into the street, intending to tell him he was no longer welcome at the restaurant after he declined to leave a tip multiple times.

“I paid for my food. I handed you $20. You cannot charge more than what the menu says, so what are you talking about?” the customer explained in the video.

According to CBS News Chicago, when asked why he didn’t tip, the customer explained online: “Oh, I just didn’t want to.”

Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

Chou has since made efforts to extend an olive branch. He says the customer’s brother visited the restaurant and they had a productive conversation. Chou sent him home with a handwritten apology, the customer’s favorite dish and an offer to reconnect.

“My door is open for you, man. You know, come on by anytime,” Chou said.

Tipping fatigue and rising frustration

The incident hits a nerve at a time when tipping has become increasingly controversial. High prices have led to some consumers tightening their belts. Many Americans have become exhausted by today’s tipping culture.

A survey commissioned by Bankrate in 2024 found that 59% of U.S. adults have a negative view of tipping, while over one in three (35%) feel things have been taken too far. In addition, around 37% of consumers believe businesses should simply pay employees more rather than rely on tips.

While consumers may be feeling the pinch, service industry workers are, too. Tips often make up a large portion of their income, especially in states where employers can pay them below minimum wage.

This financial tug-of-war is also generational. Bankrate’s tipping survey found that 23% of Gen Z respondents feel tipping has gotten out of control, vs. 40% of Gen X and 46% of baby boomer respondents. In a twist, however, it’s noted that 35% of Gen Z respondents always tip at sit-down restaurants, whereas 56% of millennial, 78% of Gen X and 86% of boomer respondents do the same.

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• There’s a 60% chance of a recession hitting the American economy this year — protect your retirement savings with these essential money moves ASAP (most of which you can complete in just minutes)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

The U.S. Secret Service in New York has seized a second web domain tied to a growing type of cryptocurrency scam known as “pig butchering,” in which scammers build trust with their victims before financially gutting them through fake crypto investment platforms.

The Secret Service reports that from November 2023 to March 2024, the domain NFT-UNI.com was used in a scheme that defrauded a New York State victim out of $172,405.61. Other victims of the same site reportedly lost more than $4.5 million combined.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

“By seizing this website, we are able to strike a blow to a criminal organization that financially victimized numerous individuals, including a member of our community and senior citizens around the country,” said United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III.

This follows the seizure of another domain, OKEX-NFT.net, in May 2024. Both sites were part of a larger operation designed to lure victims into fake crypto investments that vanished without a trace once the funds were transferred.

What are pig butchering scams, and how do they work?

“Pig butchering” scams get their name from the process scammers use. Like fattening up a pig before slaughter, victims are groomed over time through fake online relationships, only to be financially exploited at the end.

Many people have lost a lot through these types of relationships, including their entire life savings and their homes.

Scammers typically initiate contact via social media, dating apps or messaging platforms. They create a friendly or romantic bond, slowly introducing the idea of investing in cryptocurrency. Once trust is gained, the scammer sends the victim a link to a professional-looking, but fake, trading platform — such as NFT-UNI.com in the New York case.

In this instance, the victim was led to believe they were participating in a legitimate crypto investment.

After they transferred money as instructed, the funds — more than $172,000 — were quickly laundered through numerous bank accounts to hide the source, ultimately becoming unrecoverable.

Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

The rise of pig butchering scams

Pig butchering scams are on the rise, particularly as cryptocurrency continues to become more mainstream and unregulated.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reported that investment scams cost victims more than $3.3 billion in 2022, with cryptocurrency-related schemes representing $2.57 billion — a 183% increase from $907 million the year before. Many of these were pig butchering cases.

Among these cases, older Americans are specifically targeted. The FBI’s 2023 Elder Fraud Report noted individuals over 60 experienced losses of $3.4 billion in 2023, an 11% increase from the previous year.

Tips to protect yourself from pig butchering scams

Keep these things in mind to protect yourself — and your aging loved ones — from pig butchering scams.

• Be skeptical of unsolicited online relationships, especially when conversations quickly shift to financial opportunities.
• Verify any investment platform through independent research. If a site isn’t listed on FINRA’s BrokerCheck or doesn’t have verifiable company information, it may be fake.
• Avoid apps or websites recommended by strangers, even if they look professional.
• Never send money or crypto to someone you’ve only met online.
• Consult a financial advisor or cybersecurity expert if you’re unsure about an investment opportunity.
• Report suspicious activity to the FTC or local law enforcement immediately.

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• There’s a 60% chance of a recession hitting the American economy this year — protect your retirement savings with these essential money moves ASAP (most of which you can complete in just minutes)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Retirees are flocking to certain states in large numbers. While their motivations aren’t entirely clear, the growing cost of living — especially property taxes — is a likely factor.

A John Burns Research and Consulting study ranked states based on their highest and lowest median property tax rates.

While it can be tempting to save money, retirees should fully understand their finances, including their budget and spending habits, before relocating. This ensures they can afford the move, no matter how financially appealing it may seem.

Those who are ready might look to West Virginia and South Carolina — two states standing out as retiree hotspots, with property taxes of under 0.5%. Here’s what they offer and what retirees should consider.

West Virginia

West Virginia is ranked second best for retirement, just behind Delaware. While an official annual retiree count isn’t available, the U.S. Census Bureau reports that as of 2024, the state has a population of approximately 1.77 million, with over 21% of the population aged 65 and older.

Dr. Joshua Price, an associate professor of economics with WVU Tech, told 59News that West Virginia offers a low cost of living — 16% below the national average — along with tax incentives. This could likely entice Americans to migrate there — something John Burns data scientist Ian Kennedy predicts, along with its low property taxes.

As one of the country’s most affordable states, West Virginia residents can better manage inflation than those in many other states. Price noted this as another sticking point, particularly for retirees.

For example, the state has the ninth-lowest average property tax rate in the U.S. (0.55%). In West Virginia’s capital, Charleston, the median home sale price results in a monthly property tax of less than $120.

Additionally, taxes on Social Security benefits will be phased out by 2026, benefiting those approaching retirement.

But West Virginia’s appeal stretches beyond finances. Charleston offers laid-back, scenic mountain living with big-city amenities, as well as a thriving arts and culture scene.

Nearby towns like Hinton and Point Pleasant are known for their tight-knit, welcoming retirement communities.

Outside the capital region, popular retirement destinations include:

• Lewisburg, known for historic architecture and quaint boutiques.
• Morgantown, a vibrant college town with great health care facilities.
• Wheeling, offering a low cost of living and recreational options along the Ohio River.

Of course, no retirement destination is perfect. Challenges in West Virginia include access to health care facilities in rural areas, colder winters with significant snowfall and fewer job opportunities for retirees to supplement their fixed income.

South Carolina

South Carolina’s affordability has improved since 2023. However, the overall cost of living remains above average, at about 95.9% of the national mark.

Utility costs contribute to the higher expenses, while housing remains affordable. Other costs, such as groceries, are around the national average. House prices vary by region, but the state’s median home price — just under $297,000 — is about 17% below the U.S. average.

What makes South Carolina stand out is its tax structure. There’s no estate tax, Social Security benefits aren’t taxed and 401(k) and IRA withdrawals are only partially taxed.

The state offers a diverse range of retirement options:

• Myrtle Beach, known for its iconic waterfront and golfing.
• Charleston, has rich culture and historic antebellum architecture.

With nearly 200 miles of coastline, retirees can also find idyllic communities on islands like Kiawah and Seabrook.

While South Carolina’s mild winters and sunny summers appeal to many, retirees should consider the region’s hot summers (with July highs of 89°F), as well as the risks of hurricanes and flooding. Another potential drawback is the state’s relatively high health care costs.

All told, John Burns senior vice president of research, Chris Porter, predicts that South Carolina will become a more attractive destination for retirees. "If you were to rank these states over time, I think the Carolinas are moving up that list for sure," Porter told Realtor.com.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Jamie Catmull, host of The Richer Way podcast, has spent years interviewing more than 100 millionaires — from high-powered CEOs and industry leaders to self-made entrepreneurs — to uncover the key to their success.

"I wanted to help people take more control of their finances … share how (highly successful people) dealt with setbacks and came out stronger,” Catmull reveals in a CNBC article. “They don’t sit around waiting for anything, certainly not luck, because they make their own.”

Catmull has identified some common traits we can all learn from.

1. They’re highly disciplined

Discipline came up repeatedly in Catmull’s conversations with millionaires. Jaspreet Singh, CEO of Briefs Media, told Catmull that discipline is a factor that sets many millionaires apart.

“It takes a lot of discipline to get up when you don’t feel like it, get to work before everyone else, stay after everyone else, and keep working when people say you’re working too hard,” he said.

That discipline includes delaying gratification and committing to investment over the long term.

According to The National Study of Millionaires by Ramsey Solutions, 94% of American millionaires surveyed said they consistently lived below their means, and 75% said their secret to success lies in "regular, consistent investing over a long period of time."

2. They embrace failure and uncertainty

Rather than fear setbacks, millionaires welcome them as opportunities to learn and pivot.

“You don’t learn to walk by following rules,” Virgin Group founder Richard Branson told Catmull. “You learn by doing, and by falling over.”

Barbara Corcoran, real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor, said she has used the ‘fake it till you make it’ mindset to push through her fears and dive into the unknown: “You must learn not to second-guess yourself.”

Research supports this growth-through-failure philosophy.

According to the Harvard Business Review, entrepreneurs who fail early and try again are more likely to succeed in future ventures, especially if they learn from their mistakes rather than fear them.

This attitude applies to investing as well, exploring alternative investments and taking educated risks as part of a diversified portfolio. Working with a financial advisor can help in this regard.

3. They don’t let their past dictate their future

Catmull found that some of the millionaires she interviewed had overcome significant adversity.

Instead of letting early hardships define or trap them, they used those experiences as fuel. Derik Fay, founder of 3F Management, shared that he experienced he grew up in poverty and experienced abuse.

“For the longest time, I thought my childhood was going to define me as a victim,” he said. “Then I discovered that the exact things I thought had destroyed me … had the power to redefine me.”

Lynette Khalfani-Cox, known as The Money Coach, also grew up in poverty. Her parents tried to make ends meet with five girls in the home.

“My dad was a shoe shiner, and my mom was a cashier and secretary,” she said. “(They) were always struggling financially."

Now Fay helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses, while Khalfani-Cox is a best-selling author helping others build wealth.

Similarly, Rachel Rodgers, CEO and founder of Hello Seven, grew up in Queens. The author of We Should All Be Millionaires is committed to helping others achieve the same success.

As Rachel shared with the Harvard Business Review, she does ‘thought work’ every day to challenge the negative ideas that she faces. She encourages others to do the same.

“If we don’t learn how to filter those thoughts, we start to believe them,” she says. “Eventually, they can lead to a scarcity mindset."

Sources

1. The Richer Way

2. CNBC: I’ve interviewed over 100 millionaires—these 4 habits made them highly successful, by Jaime Catmull (Apr 9, 2025)

3. Ramsey Solutions: The National Study of Millionaires, by Jaime Catmull (Oct 3, 2024)

4. Harvard Business Review: Strategies for Learning from Failure, by Amy C. Edmondson (Apr 2011)

5. Harvard Business Review: How to Build Wealth When You Don’t Come from Money, by Anne-Lyse Wealth (Mar 17, 2022)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Some Florida homeowners hardest hit by hurricanes Milton and Helene must now also see their homes completely demolished or, if they’re lucky, elevated.

This follows a federal mandate that impacts majorly damaged homes — those impacted by natural disasters. Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) 50% rule dictates that if a house is in a flood zone and local building officials deem it to be substantially damaged, straightforward repairs may not be sufficient.

The complex regulation kicks in when the repair costs exceed 50% of the home’s market value (the test for “substantially damaged”), amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars for the homeowners.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

The impact of hurricanes Milton and Helene

Hurricane Milton took at least 24 lives in Florida and caused over $34.3 billion in damages last October, while just days prior, Hurricane Helene’s aftermath killed 34 in the state and caused over $78.7 billion in damages across the U.S.

The west coast barrier islands of Pinellas County were one of the state’s most impacted areas. Redington Shores resident Derek Brunney has lived in his home for over 20 years and has had to contend with it being demolished.

“You start seeing different events you had on the property. Weddings, birthdays, things like that. It just rehashed everything," Brunney told WFLA News Channel 8 On Your Side about the aftermath. "It’s one step forward, two, or three steps back. You get punched in the eye at the same time.”

The trouble for many homeowners like Brunney is that they still must pay for their insurance and utilities. But he — and many other Florida homeowners — still hold out hope for a better future.

“It’s slow,” he said. “It’s daunting. It’s exhausting, but it’s the only way you’re going to move forward right now until you get to the end of it.”

How to budget for the unexpected

When it comes to home repairs and rising insurance costs, you often can’t anticipate when they’ll hit. The key is to be prepared. While this isn’t a simple feat for many, there are some practical things you can start doing today to budget for the future and any rebuilding efforts.

Set aside emergency savings. Aim to save what you can each year for emergency repairs and maintenance. Ideally, your fund will cover three months worth of minimum monthly expenses, but if you’re in a disaster-prone area, you’ll need to prepare for more than the bare minimum because such expenses fall beyond the parameters of regular expenses. To get a sense of what you’d need to put away, you can try using a savings goal calculator, or plain old pencil and paper. While those funds sit tight, invest them independently in something that earns interest yet keeps them separate and accessible, like a high-yield savings account.

Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

Understand your insurance plan and exactly what you are and aren’t covered for. Review your home insurance policy in detail every year, and don’t hesitate to contact your agent to clarify terms. Ask questions. Document answers. Make sure you understand deductibles, exclusions and any limits on claims.

Prepare and save for increased premiums. Track trends in local insurance rates and adjust your budget accordingly. Even if you aren’t in an area of direct impact when it comes to natural disasters like fires and hurricanes, you may be surprised to learn, your premiums may still be going up. Others in “high-catastrophy states” may also need to prepare. Understand why this may be the case, and prepare to shop around for the best rates for the coverage you need, if necessary.

Future-proof your home against natural disasters. Start with small projects like installing storm shutters and sump pumps, reinforcing your roof and replacing lighter materials with more durable alternatives. Then, consider larger upgrades like hurricane resistance or seismic retrofits, and flood barriers. Fireproofing his home made all the difference for this California resident.

Look into state-wide programs to help offset costs. For example, Elevate Florida, the state’s first elevation mitigation program, was designed to "enhance community resilience by mitigating private residences against natural hazards." It provides eligible homeowners with at least 75% of their costs for structure elevation, mitigation reconstruction, acquisition/demolition or wind mitigation. Research and use all the programs and funds available to you.

With these measures, you can rest assured you are being proactive in protecting your home and your future.

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• ‘Liberation Day’ just triggered a 60% chance of a US recession, warns JP Morgan — use these ‘anti-shock’ money hacks to protect yourself ASAP

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Kay and Ryan Zin spent a year and more than $300,000 on permits and renovations before opening Bay of Burma restaurant in San Francisco’s South of Market area in 2023.

The business owners leased space on the ground level of a mixed-use building, with residences upstairs.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

The day after their grand opening, they learned the city would be turning the residences into a homeless shelter for youth.

"We didn’t have any clue what is happening on the building," Kay told ABC7 News in San Francisco.

With the shelter slated to open April 2025, the Zins feel trapped. They want to relocate, but that would mean breaking their lease and losing the money they invested in their existing restaurant.

"We are the tenants, too,” Ryan said. “We don’t want to deal with everything that we don’t want to because we want to focus on our business, but our hands are tied."

Balancing social needs with business concerns

The city chose the location because it complements other city-run supports nearby, including an addiction treatment center, a sobering center and homeless shelter.

But area businesses are concerned about increased crime. The Zins’ restaurant has already been robbed twice — at gunpoint. Small businesses are worried would-be customers will stay away due to growing safety concerns.

"I just wanted to relocate to a safer place," said Kay.

Read more: Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

For over a year, the Zins have been communicating with the city’s Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH) department about their concerns. They want the city to refund their $300,000-plus investment so they can move.

HSH supervisor Matt Dorsey told ABC7 News is willing to help the Zins and that he doesn’t “want to do anything that will hurt a small business.”

“They didn’t sign up for this,” he said. “They want out. I’m happy to have that conversation and bring my office in negotiating that.”

Dorsey added that the city will be providing round-the-clock “ambassador services” in the neighborhood to address concerns about safety. He said there will also be onsite security in the shelter overnight.

When local policy impact local businesses

Small business owners in situations like the Zins may feel stuck, but there are steps to mitigate risk, advocate for support and deal with risk.

Understand your rights. Before signing a lease, it’s critical to review any clauses about building ownership changes, city takeovers or early termination rights. If you’re already leasing, consult your lease agreement to see if the landlord violated any disclosure or notification requirements. Commercial tenants may have rights depending on lease terms and local ordinances.

Build alliances with other small businesses. You’re stronger together. Join or form a merchant association or collaborate with nearby businesses to share advocacy, safety initiatives and resources. Voice collective concerns to city officials or neighborhood councils.

Adapt to change. If your customer base shifts, consider adjusting your business model. This might include offering delivery or pickup to reach customers reluctant to visit in person, expanding your online presence or hosting community events to foster positive engagement.

Seek legal or financial advice. If you’re facing eviction, unexpected relocation or damages, consult a legal expert with experience in commercial property law. Additionally, a financial adviser can help you create a plan for relocation, recovery or assistance applications.

Apply for local or state grants and aid. Your municipality or state may offer grants to support small businesses facing displacement or hardship, covering things like relocation, lease assistance and infrastructure improvements.

Engage with city officials and local media. Make your voice heard by attending public meetings or speaking to local representatives. Raising awareness through media as the Zins did can also amplify your situation and potentially bring support or solutions.

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Do you rely on your monthly Social Security check to get by? Here are 5 simple money moves for American seniors during Trump’s presidency

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Arizona father and son, Randy and Chad Miller, have reportedly been indicted in an alleged scheme that targeted investors looking to fund a sports complex.

The elaborate plot, which resulted in more than $280 million in defrauded funds, involved municipal bonds linked to a large sports complex in the city of Mesa.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

Federal prosecutors allege the pair deceived investors about prospective interest in the use of Legacy Park (formerly Bell Bank Park). The Millers used forged documents to sell what were essentially worthless bonds, according to prosecutors.

The father–son duo now face four major charges, with victims ranging from individuals to organizations, including one that promotes athletes living with disabilities.

What happened?

According to federal investigators, the Millers orchestrated an elaborate fraud centered on Legacy Park, a massive sports venue near Mesa Gateway Airport.

The pair reportedly created fake demand by forging "binding" letters of intent from sports groups and customers, falsely claiming that the venue would be fully occupied and generate more than $100 million in its first year — more than enough to cover bond payments.

In some instances, prosecutors allege that the Millers directed others to sign letters without permission or copied forged signatures onto fabricated documents.

“Essentially, the Millers made solicitations … particularly through bonds that were based on false statements and misrepresentations,” criminal defense attorney Jason Lamm told AZ Family.

The fraudulent documents misled investors into believing the project had significant, credible backing. However, the project began unraveling soon after opening in 2022.

By October of that year, the park had defaulted on its bond payments and filed for bankruptcy the following spring. Despite the estimated $284 million raised, federal officials say less than $2.5 million was ultimately used to repay bondholders. The complex was eventually sold for less than $26 million.

The FBI’s assistant director in charge, Christopher G. Raia, remarked to AZ Family: “Randy and Chad Miller allegedly chose to use a planned sports complex as a means to exploit and defraud investors … the FBI will continue to ensure a level playing field by holding fraudsters accountable.”

Prosecutors said the money was allegedly used to enrich the Millers personally, with things like a home, SUVs and inflated salaries.

Read more: Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

The father-son duo has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud, one count of securities fraud, one count of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

“The Millers allegedly executed the scheme using fraudulent documents to lie about the status of the proposed project in order to raise hundreds of millions of dollars which they used to enrich themselves,” Raia said.

How to spot similar investment scams

Investment scams involving municipal bonds or large development projects often prey on good intentions, especially when tied to community efforts.

Awareness and skepticism are your best defense. Here are some red flags and practical tips to avoid being deceived.

Lack of transparency. If financial documents, contracts or project plans aren’t readily available, that’s a warning sign.

Pressure to act quickly. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to discourage due diligence.

Unrealistic returns or projections. Promises of high or guaranteed returns, especially on municipal bonds, should raise suspicion.

Missing independent verification. If third-party audits or evaluations are unavailable, it may signal fraudulent intent.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Verify bond issuers. Check with the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and Electronic Municipal Market Access database to confirm a bond offering’s legitimacy.
• Consult financial advisors. Before investing significant sums, especially in unfamiliar financial products, speak with a licensed investment advisor or securities attorney.
• Research the project thoroughly. Look for third-party confirmations, such as news reports, planning commission documents or business filings.
• Don’t rely on just the pitch. If the only source of information is the promoter, it’s time to ask questions and dig deeper.

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Do you rely on your monthly Social Security check to get by? Here are 5 simple money moves for American seniors during Trump’s presidency

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Jamie Catmull, host of The Richer Way, has spent years interviewing more than 100 millionaires — from high-powered CEOs and industry leaders to self-made entrepreneurs — to uncover the key to their success.

"I wanted to help people take more control of their finances … share how (highly successful people) dealt with setbacks and came out stronger,” Catmull reveals in a CNBC article. “They don’t sit around waiting for anything, certainly not luck, because they make their own.”

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

Catmull has identified some common traits we can all learn from. Here are three that stood out the most and what research says about why they’re so important.

1. They’re highly disciplined

Discipline came up repeatedly in Catmull’s conversations with millionaires. Jaspreet Singh, CEO of Briefs Media, told Catmull that discipline is a factor that sets many millionaires apart.

“It takes a lot of discipline to get up when you don’t feel like it, get to work before everyone else, stay after everyone else, and keep working when people say you’re working too hard,” he said.

That discipline includes delaying gratification and committing to investment over the long term.

Read more: Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

According to The National Study of Millionaires by Ramsey Solutions, 94% of millionaires surveyed said they consistently lived below their means, and 75% said their secret to success lies in "regular, consistent investing over a long period of time."

2. They embrace failure and uncertainty

Rather than fear setbacks, millionaires welcome them as opportunities to learn and pivot.

“You don’t learn to walk by following rules,” Virgin Group founder Richard Branson told Catmull. “You learn by doing, and by falling over.”

Barbara Corcoran, real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor said she has used the ‘fake it till you make it’ mindset to push through her fears and dive into the unknown: “You must learn not to second-guess yourself.”

Research supports this growth-through-failure philosophy.

According to the Harvard Business Review, entrepreneurs who fail early and try again are more likely to succeed in future ventures, especially if they learn from their mistakes rather than fear them.

This attitude applies to investing as well, exploring alternative investments and taking educated risks as part of a diversified portfolio. Working with a financial advisor can help in this regard.

3. They don’t let their past dictate their future

Catmull found that some of the millionaires she interviewed had overcome significant adversity.

Instead of letting early hardships define or trap them, they used those experiences as fuel. Derik Fay, founder of 3F Management, shared that he experienced he grew up in poverty and experienced abuse.

“For the longest time, I thought my childhood was going to define me as a victim,” he said. “Then I discovered that the exact things I thought had destroyed me … had the power to redefine me.”

Lynette Khalfani-Cox, known as The Money Coach, also grew up in poverty. Her parents tried to make ends meet with five girls in the home.

“My dad was a shoe shiner, and my mom was a cashier and secretary,” she said. “(They) were always struggling financially."

Now Fay helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses, while Khalfani-Cox is a best-selling author helping others build wealth.

Similarly, Rachel Rodgers, CEO and founder of Hello Seven, grew up in Queens. The author of We Should All Be Millionaires is committed to helping others achieve the same success.

As she shared with the Harvard Business Review, she does ‘thought work’ every day to challenge the negative ideas that she faces. She encourages others to do the same.

“If we don’t learn how to filter those thoughts, we start to believe them,” she says. “Eventually, they can lead to a scarcity mindset."

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Do you rely on your monthly Social Security check to get by? Here are 5 simple money moves for American seniors during Trump’s presidency

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.