Welcome to Survive & Flourish—I’m so glad you’re here.

My name is Rick, and I created this space out of a deep belief: we all deserve more than just survival—we deserve the chance to thrive.

For too many people across the United States, life has become a constant balancing act. From unaffordable healthcare and housing to job insecurity and rising mental health challenges, the pressure to “keep going” has replaced the freedom to dream. I’ve seen this in my own life, in the lives of loved ones, and in the stories shared by countless others. So I decided to do something about it.

Survive & Flourish is my way of reaching out, person to person, to talk about what truly matters. This site is dedicated to exploring and addressing the top ten things people in this country need most—needs that affect our well-being, dignity, and opportunity to live meaningful lives:

• Affordable healthcare for our bodies and minds
• Stable, well-paying jobs that respect our worth
• Safe, affordable housing in the places we call home
• Mental health support without stigma or barriers
• Financial literacy and security for today and tomorrow
• Reliable childcare and parental support for working families
• Food security so no one has to wonder where their next meal comes from
• Clean air, water, and a healthy environment for all communities
• A sense of community and belonging in an often disconnected world
• Access to education and job training for a brighter future

But this isn’t just a list. These are human necessities, and behind each one is a real person trying their best in an increasingly complicated world.

More Than a Website—A Mission

Survive & Flourish isn’t here to overwhelm you with facts or preach solutions from a distance. It’s here to meet you where you are—with compassion, honesty, and a belief in our shared strength. Whether you're a parent trying to make ends meet, a young adult searching for direction, or someone rebuilding after setbacks, you’re not alone. This site exists for you.

My mission is to educate, empower, and connect. I want to break down complex systems into everyday language, offer practical guidance you can use now, and create a space where we can talk openly about what’s working—and what’s not.

Who I Am

I’m someone who believes in truth-telling, community-building, and lifting people up. I’ve walked through financial stress, seen the cracks in the healthcare system, juggled work and family, and learned the hard way that surviving is not the same as flourishing.

But I’ve also discovered how powerful knowledge, support, and hope can be. I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned and learning from others along the way. I value kindness, resilience, and progress over perfection.

If you believe we can create a better future—not just for ourselves, but for each other—then you’re in the right place.

Let’s rebuild. Let’s rise.
Let’s Survive & Flourish—together.