About Four Ponds and its founder

Four Ponds Financial Planning 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 and passed the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Certification Exam. He is working to complete the CFP Board of Standards' remaining requirements for CFP certification.

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 the Net Gains personal finance column for ABCNews.com.

David's personal interests include running and other outdoor activities. He is a coach with the Bourne Youth Soccer Association and serves on the Cape Cod Marathon race committee.

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.