The Foundation Stack lays out the exact order of financial steps to take, with separate versions for W2 employees and business owners. The sequence begins with a three-to-six-month emergency fund held in a high-yield savings or money market account, followed by paying off high-interest debt, defined as 7 percent or more. Next comes investing up to the employer 401(k) match for the free money, then funding a Roth IRA at $7,500 for 2026, roughly $600 per month. Dr. Sheikh then covers disability insurance to protect income, term life insurance instead of whole life, and a triple-tax-advantaged HSA that should be left to grow. The stack finishes with an estate plan, including a will, medical power of attorney, and a living trust naming guardians and trustees.