About Four Ponds and founder David McPherson, CFP®

Four Ponds Financial Planning LLC grew out of founder David McPherson's work as a financial writer and editor for The Providence Journal newspaper in Rhode Island. As the Journal's deputy business editor, David wrote about banking and financial services and helped direct the newspaper's coverage of business, investing and personal finance.

He gained an up-close view of the shenanigans in some segments of the financial services industry and concluded there is an unmet need for sound financial advice from objective sources.

While still working as a full-time journalist, David earned a certificate in financial planning from Boston University. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional who has met the rigorous certification requirements in the areas of education, examination, ethics and experience. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Stonehill College.

David is a member of the Garrett Planning Network, an international affiliation of independent, fee-only financial planners. He also belongs to the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, the nation's leading group of fee-only financial planners whose members adhere to a strict code of ethics.

Since leaving the newspaper business, David has continued to write about personal finance and investing. He writes a monthly personal finance column for ABCNews.com.

David has been quoted by the New York Times and Money magazine and appeared on the public radio programs Marketplace Money and Here & Now.

David's personal interests include running and other outdoor activities. He serves as a coach and board member for the Bourne Youth Soccer Association.

About the Four Ponds name

The firm's name is derived from the Four Ponds Conservation Area located a short walk from David's home in the Pocasset section of Bourne, Mass. Four Ponds features miles of walking trails that make it a popular destination for short hikes and a favorite destination for mountain bikers.