Break Your Budget

In this episode of Don't Depend on Daddy, Michela shares the five best purchases she made throughout her twenties—ranging from a $20 book to a $9,000 cosmetic procedure. These investments weren't just splurges—they deeply impacted her confidence, routines, finances, and lifestyle. From at-home coffee rituals and skincare to the transformative power of a nose job, Michela breaks down why each purchase was worth it, how she thinks about ROI when spending, and why being intentional with money is the ultimate glow-up. Whether you're in your early twenties or nearing 30, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it means to spend wisely.TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – Intro + Japan travel update & upcoming budget breakdown03:00 – Financial tools, grad season gifts, and mid-year budget planning05:00 – Why intentional spending matters in your 20s06:30 – Best Purchase #1: Breville Barista Express & at-home coffee ritual10:00 – Best Purchase #2: My nose job + how it built my confidence & business14:30 – Navigating self-image and spending on appearance21:00 – Best Purchase #3: The Daily Stoic and mindful morning routines24:00 – Best Purchase #4: Red light mask & my skincare confidence journey26:30 – Best Purchase #5: Kindle + why reading changed my life28:45 – Final thoughts + my mindset behind “worth it” purchases

In this episode of Don't Depend on Daddy, Michela is joined by Christina Mychas—pharmacist turned YouTuber and stylist—to talk all things intentional living, personal style, and Christina's signature concept: minimalist-ish. Together, they unpack how to shift from chronic overspending and shame-driven “no buys” to curating a wardrobe (and lifestyle) that feels aligned, elevated, and joyful. Expect a deep dive into capsule wardrobes, finding your outfit formula, buying better, and the behavioral science behind why we shop—and how to stop. If you've ever looked at a closet full of clothes and felt like you had nothing to wear, this episode will change your perspective.TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 4:3500:00 – Intro to the episode + quick housekeeping01:50 – Meet Christina: pharmacist, stylist, YouTuber & minimalist-ish founder03:15 – Christina's $120K debt story and the shopping addiction that fueled it06:45 – The “boots under the bed” moment that changed everything08:00 – Starting with a no-buy challenge and what she learned10:15 – Why restrictive no-buy rules often backfire13:00 – Transitioning to minimalist-ish: what it is & why it works15:30 – Wardrobe pain points: occasion clothes vs daily wear18:00 – The power of pausing shopping to discover your actual style20:30 – Christina's process for decluttering with intention (style it vs store it)24:00 – How to identify and build your outfit formula27:45 – Using accessories and texture to elevate basic outfits32:15 – Making seasonal fashion choices with a minimalist lens36:00 – Christina's book, minimalist-ish journal, and final adviceFIND CHRISTINA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christina.mychasTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@christina.mychasYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristinamychasWebsite: https://www.minimalist-ish.com/Book: https://www.minimalist-ish.com/buy-my-journal

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing her journey of breaking up with social media as a creator. Content creation is an integral aspect of her business, but social media can become a toxic place. Michela shares how she is breaking her phone addiction to stop habitually scrolling, work through a dopamine detox, and create sustainable boundaries with social media. She covers why she is doing this, the negative impacts social media has on the brain, and the tactical tips she has been taking to implement. TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 4;25

On this episode of DDOD, Michela sits down with Lucy Bedewi, the owner of MyWriteHandWoman. Lucy is a verbal and messaging strategist and she built her business while traveling full-time, after being fired from her first corporate job after 90 days. In this episode, Lucy shares her tips for getting started with a service business, landing your first client, selling high-ticket offers, and how she sells on social media without being an influencer. It's a GREAT listen if you're someone who wants to start your own business!TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 6:09FIND LUCY: Website: https://www.mywritehandwoman.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mywritehandwoman/​​

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares a 2 year reflection on living alone. At first, living alone was scary, but Michela shares how she has navigated this period of her life and fostered both an intentional space as well as intentional activities that she does by herself. If you are feeling down about living alone, or want to live alone but are scared to do it, this episode is for you!TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 4:51​​

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares how she is approaching upgrading her wardrobe with the seasons in mind. Having a well-rounded wardrobe is HARD, especially if you live in a place that experiences 4 distinct seasons. In this episode, Michela is sharing some rules for approaching your seasonal wardrobe, financial guidelines to incorporate for spending on your seasonal wardrobe, and her thoughts (more of them lol) on buying clothes and actually wearing them! TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 8:17​​

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is joined by the lovely Kate Robb, a digital entrepreneur with EIGHT streams of income! We focus this conversation primarily on her Etsy business, where she has scaled her shops selling print on demand and digital on demand products. We cover how to get started on Etsy, the Etsy algorithm, if the space is overcrowded (it's not), and so much more! If you are wanting to start a side hustle but the idea of creating content doesn't appeal to you - you'll LOVE THIS!About Kate: Kate is a former teacher turned tech recruiter turned full-time entrepreneur. She helps creative people build diverse income streams that don't feel like work - from selling print on demand products and digital wall art on Etsy to monetizing content online. Her mission is to make self employment feel approachable and achievable, especially for young women who've been told a 9 to 5 is the only viable path.TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 6:05FIND KATE: Website: https://www.katerobbllc.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katerobbllcInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katerobbllc/​RESOURCES:

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing how she is reclaiming her routines this spring and summer. As we move into the warmer months, it is time to seize the day and take control of your time. She is sharing the psychology behind why routines make you happier, elements of successful morning, work, and night routines, and how she is incorporating some changes into her daily routines to feel better. TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 2:03

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is hopping on the TikTok trend and sharing some things she finds incredibly chic. These go beyond just your personal style (although there are a few style items) and transcend into how you operate, from hobbies to cooking to navigating friendships as an adult. TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 3:24

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing how she cleared her hormonal acne in her 20s. She discusses how following a high fiber, whole foods diet can help improve digestion to clear skin, the impact going off birth control had on her skin, and her current skincare routine. DISCLAIMER: Michela is not a doctor and this is not medical advice. TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 3:22

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing 5 small habits she has incorporated into her routine that have made her life better. The habits include ritualizing her morning coffee, implementing a daily content hour, using a written to-do list, going on a long walk, and taking the extra 10 minutes at night for self–care. It truly is the little things that make it possible to find joy in the mundane parts of everyday life!TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 3:00

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing her 3 month low-buy & underconsumption update. She reflects on her consumption rules she set at the beginning of 2025 and gets honest about what is and isn't working. Plus, she shares the things she bought in Q1 and what her spending plans are in Q2! TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 5:15

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing the key lessons from the 12 Week Year. After successfully implementing this method for the first 12 weeks of 2025, Michela can confirm that condensing your planning cycle into 12 week sprints vs. annual targets really DOES make a different. Learn about why annual planning doesn't work, the 5 disciplines of execution (vision, planning, process control, measurement, time use), and how to implement these strategies for Q2 (the next 12 week spring). This strategy can be applied to ANY area of your life, so if you're ready to take control of your goals, you need to listen!TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 4:54

AUDIO NOTE!!! I've been told the audio is only coming out on the left for some. I don't know what happened!! I am sorry !!!!!On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing how you can SPRING CLEAN your life and find new motivation as the winter comes to an end. She covers personal finances, your professional life, personal goals, a wardrobe cleanout, digital decluttering, and cleaning out your physical space. If you are ready to head into the new season with a FRESH START then you'll love this episode. TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 5:21

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is back with another State of the Union episode! This time, she is focusing specifically on ins and outs for spring 2025, because we are having a healthy and happy and hot spring! From letting go of a scaredy cat mentality to adding color into her wardrobe, this episode unveils a more personal side to Michela and you're going to love it. If you have an In or Out for spring, be sure to leave a comment!TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 3:15 

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is discusses the concept of a Dopamine Menu! This was a trend from 2024 that covers all the little habits and special things that you can implement throughout your day when you need to boost your mood or spark a little joy. This is especially helpful if you are experiencing the winter blues, or just overall want to feel better without reaching for your phone. You'll learn about what a dopamine menu is, and some examples from MIchela's (current) dopamine menu!TIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 3:11 

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is joined by Paige Pritchard, founder of Overcoming Overspending which is an online community of tens of thousands of women who are developing more disciplined and purposeful spending habits. Paige and Michela discuss how social media influences your spending habits, the 3 Ds of shopping (distance, desire, decision), spending guilt, FOMO, emotional shopping and escapism, how to create friction, aspirational lifestyles, and so much more. If you are ready to take your spending power BACK, this episode is for you!! FIND PAIGE:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overcoming_overspending/Podcast: https://overcomingoverspending.com/podcastTIME STAMPS: Episode Starts at 4:18

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing how she manages her time to balance building and scaling a business with health and wellness and also having time for a personal life! “Doing it all” is impossible, but getting things DONE is a result of having strong systems in place. Michela follows a variety of frameworks and routines to ensure that everything to run the business as well as ensure she stays sane gets accomplished each week. She also shares popular time management tips that she DOESN'T follow (aka time blocking) and how you can balance a 9-5 with content creation (if you want) and all the stuff that comes along with being a successful person! TIME STAMPS:  Episode Starts at 4:32  

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is sharing 10 lessons she learned throughout her 20s. In honor of 2025 being the year she turns 30, this is part one of many self-reflective episodes to come that cover important topics for your 20s. In this episode specifically, Michela shares some tough love around owning your choices and your life, learning how to find happiness at work, and being intentional about changing your life! If you have lessons for 20-somethings, leave them in the comments or send me a DM! TIME STAMPS:  Episode Starts at 6:22

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares habits/routines/systems that have helped her be successful in her 20s. The goal is to enter your 30s feeling SUPER proud of what you accomplished in your 20s, and this episode breaks down the stand-out actions she has taken across 5 pillars of life: personal finance, career, appearance, health/wellness, and personal relationships. Plus, a few life lessons learned along the way. If you are ready to uplevel any of these areas - no matter what your age - you will enjoy this episode!  TIME STAMPS:  Episode Starts at 4:01

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares 5 tips on how to start embracing winter and romanticizing this slower period of the year. The winter season is the perfect time to slow down and use this extra space to REBRAND your life and actually implement the intentions you set at the top of the year. So if you are hoping to avoid the winter blues and enter the spring and summer seasons feeling REFRESHED and like the best version of yourself, then you'll love this episode.  TIME STAMPS:  Episode Starts at 5:55 

This year, my goal is to shop more intentionally. A major theme of this is to begin purchasing clothing made of natural materials, and slowly phase out the synthetic clothing in my closet. Natural materials wear better, they look better, they last longer, and are an overall better ROI on your clothing spend. However, it can feel like a daunting task to navigate shopping for natural materials in a world where everything is made of plastic. In this episode, Michela shares why natural materials are better, what materials to look for, where to focus your purchases on, and her favorite brands. Everything is linked on LTK! Break Your Budget LTK: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Breakyourbudget

My spending theme in 2025 is to buy and consume LESS. The process of moving was so jarring to me, and it made me realize how much *stuff* I have.. And how much I don't use. The conversation around consumption has been at the forefront of social media over the last few months. Underconsumption, project pan, and using what we have is going to carry us at least through Q1, but hopefully turns from “trend” to everlasting theme in how we use and spend our money. In this episode, Michela shares her “rules” for consuming this year in an effort to spend less, but also become a more conscious consumer.  TIME STAMPS:  Episode Starts at 11:18  Break Your Budget Links:

Happy New Year! A fresh year means a fresh start and taking advantage of all the motivation you have to uplevel your life. In this episode, Michela is sharing 3 tips each to enhance your money, career, productivity, and appearance. From taking a softer approach to your finances, exploring side quests and building community, using AI to uplevel your productivity systems, and taking the extra 10 minutes to feel better about how you look, each of these tips is going to make your life better this year. It's not your typical glow-up episode, so if you're looking to learn something new and gain a new perspective on leveling up, you'll love this.  TIME STAMPS:  Episode Starts at 3:22 Break Your Budget Inner Circle: https://break-your-budget-inner-circle.circle.so/checkout/break-your-budget-inner-circle Break Your Budget Links:

It's time to address the ins & outs for 2025! In this episode, Michela is talking spending themes, new years intentions, trends, products, content and more. I'd love to hear your ins & outs for 2025! TIME STAMPS:  State of the Union Starts at 5:15 Break Your Budget Links:

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares her top 9 purchases from 2024! The spending theme of this year was “buy less and buy better” and these purchases are reflective of being super intentional about each and every purchase. She shares her 3 favorite purchases/products within 3 main categories: under $50, under $100, and over $200. She also shares some honorable mentions of products she loves but didn't purchase this year, and a few items she wished she got more use out of. All of the products are linked below and can be found below or on her LTK! TIME STAMPS:  Q+A Starts at: 1:30 Under $50: 4:20 Under $100: 9:00 Over $200: 14:15 Products Mentioned: Daily Stoic: https://rstyle.me/+rVNb_U0_GjmFL--aMgIWLg Crown Affair Conditioner: https://rstyle.me/+QLgCFpsCMX760vmSgHEOMg Cottonon 90s Tee: https://rstyle.me/+zi6NpV4O_niKokFf23cK-g Aritzia Top: https://rstyle.me/+eBRv3k2410fPKa_tXN0oxg Gorjana Earrings: https://rstyle.me/+Chp414aQScJghx_zT185mg Card Case: https://rstyle.me/+lPXdrYsO2fb0e3EVSDsTLg Red Light Face Mask: https://get.aspr.app/SHSBo (use code BREAKYOURBUDGET10) Cooper Cardigan: https://rstyle.me/+E9Wz0rzm2qZeqV5Ta6BLeQ Purse: https://rstyle.me/+vliJx8qvUDJvGQKhy5cTiA Hatch Alarm: https://rstyle.me/+jLDPuDaRfw72PSXPNV_zoA Dyson Airwrap: https://rstyle.me/+g6Niqc9QzN4JuRf3OnwxRg Jetlag Mask: https://rstyle.me/+d7bniwSTzqfDhfYkIXCmPw Break Your Budget Links:

TIME STAMPS:  Q+A Starts at: 3:57 Personal Questions: 4:20 Career Questions: 16:20 Money Questions: 36:45 On this episode of DDOD, Michela is answering your burning questions! She starts off with the personal section, focused on closing loose ends related to her move from LA to Chicago. Then she pivots into the career questions to discuss what to do if you are unemployed for an extended period of time, how to make a career pivot, and how to start creating content. She wraps up the episode with personal finance questions surrounding the financial order of operations and controlling the temptation to splurge.  QUESTIONS:  Moving update - when are you moving? What are you most excited about for chicago? What are you doing with your car? Will you miss anything about LA and CA? What should I do if I've been unemployed for a year? What advice do you have for pivoting careers?  How to navigate feeling lost in your career with pressure to advance and keep making more money? As a fellow WFH-er, how do you decide where to live/move? I'm overwhelmed with choices What advice do you have for starting content creation?  How do you control the temptation to splurge? How should I prioritize paying down debt vs. investing?  I graduated Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard Own Your Career (book):  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Own Your Career Template: https://breakyourbudget.com/own-your-career-template FREE Financial Plan Crash Course https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares 5 realistic money milestones to work towards throughout your 20s. She shares real ages in order to create a point of comparison, but remember that personal finance is personal and this timeline does not work for everyone. She covers saving an emergency fund, building strong credit, investing for retirement, increasing your income, and investing beyond retirement. (Skip to 3:18 to skip housekeeping) Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard Own Your Career (book):  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Own Your Career Template: https://breakyourbudget.com/own-your-career-template FREE Financial Plan Crash Course https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela share 10 habits and rules she implements to consume LESS. In an era of overconsumption, learning how to control your spending and implementing small tactics to help stay in control of your money is essential. From the 48 hour rule ot developing hobbies, if you're looking to SPEND LESS in 2025, this is for you.

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares her in-depth financial journey throughout her 20s. From graduating college and having no clue what to do financially, to taking a pay cut, learning by doing, starting a side hustle, and ultimately building a 7-figure business. Michela has experienced a lot during her 20s and shares all the details in this episode, year by year! Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard Resource Library: https://breakyourbudget.com/resource-library FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 Order OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Own Your Career Template: https://breakyourbudget.com/own-your-career-template FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is joined by Lillian Zhang, a San Francisco Bay Area based creator and product marketing manager in the tech industry who is an alumna of UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business. She's passionate about sharing financial literacy and career education content for her primarily Gen Z audience. We chat about her college-to-corporate journey, her experience working in tech, how she started creating content, how she balances content while working full time, and so much more! OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Own Your Career Template: https://breakyourbudget.com/own-your-career-template FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links LILLIAN'S INFO: IG: https://www.instagram.com/bylillianzhang/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ @lillianZhang  Free 4-page personal finance checklist (includes free resume template): https://tinyurl.com/4fnpmabc Ultimate money bundle (income and expenses budget tracker + net worth tracker): https://tinyurl.com/5n8wtket

In this episode of DDOD, Michela share her top 5 best financial decisions from her 20s. These are the decisions she's made that have had a major impact on her ability to grow wealth, from starting a side hustle, buying a car in cash, taking a pay cut and more.  OWN YOUR CAREER:  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Own Your Career Template: https://breakyourbudget.com/own-your-career-template FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

In this episode of DDOD, Michela share 5 tips to *actually get something* out of your year-end performance review. These are important career conversations, so rather than simply checking the box, learn how to OWN your relationship with your manager and control the narrative of the conversation so you can position yourself to excel in the next year.  OWN YOUR CAREER:  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Own Your Career Template: https://breakyourbudget.com/own-your-career-template FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

In this episode of DDOD, Michela divses into the five most important steps to take if you get laid off. From processing the emotional impact to reassessing your career goals and updating your professional brand, this episode will guide you through each step with practical advice. Tune in to learn how to turn an unexpected setback into an opportunity for growth and a brighter career future! OWN YOUR CAREER:  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela sat down with Courtney Johnson, a personal brand expert and content creator based in Austin, TX. In this conversation, you learn all about personal branding, how to start a personal brand, social media strategies and tips, and so much more. If you're ready to take your career to the next level and open yourself up to new opportunities, this is for you! COURNTEY'S LINKS: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneylynnjohnson/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7oaV8L7rOBd878nlwydJrj Maven (Linkedin Cohort): https://maven.com/courtneyjohnson/personalbrand Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/courtneylynnjohnson Monday Megaphone Newsletter: https://artisanal-originator-6888.ck.page/0e038bf26a Instagram: @courtlynnjohnson Tiktok: @courtney..johnson OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares her top 10 intentional splurges she has made in the last few years. These items are her most used products/items/etc that she has intentionally researched, planned for, and purchased. They span all price ranges, starting at $45 to $700.  Links to everything I shared: https://shopmy.us/breakyourbudget/shelves GET RAKUTEN: https://www.rakuten.com/r/MICHEL156676?eeid=28187 RED LIGHT FACE MASK: code BREAKYOURBUDGET10 https://omniluxled.com/collections/all?transaction_id=1025c2a3d8fc00ddc3751947c154f0&utm_source=aspire&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=breakyourbudget OWN YOUR CAREER:  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares how you can start saving and budgeting for the holidays! Learn quick tips to plan your holiday budget, who you'll buy for, map out expenses, and shop intentionally.  GET RAKUTEN: https://www.rakuten.com/r/MICHEL156676?eeid=28187 OWN YOUR CAREER:  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela breaks down the 5 things you need to do to get started on (or refresh) your financial journey. This is a back-to-basics episode where the foundations of financial literacy are discussed at length, including budgeting, account frameworks, setting goals, money tools, and financial routines. OWN YOUR CAREER:  https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard FREE Recession Guide: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/recession FREE Personal Finance Starter Kit:  https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/mlncth2n40 All Other Resources:  www.breakyourbudget.com/links

OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links Birks I got: https://www.birkenstock.com/us/-boston-soft-footbed-suede-leather/boston-suede2-suedeleather-softfootbed-eva-u_2215.html On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares an update on her moving plans, her current favorites, and answers a few of your questions about dating, HYSA, writing a book, getting confident on social media, and more!

On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares 10 micro habits that might be keeping you broke. All of these micro habits are things you could be doing that are sabotaging your money. The best part is that they are all easily adjusted or changed, and don't require getting a new job or increasing your salary. Do you do any of these? Leave a comment to let her know! OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela discusses a game plan to take advantage of the September Surge! The September Surge is a period after the summer but before the holiday season where recruiters and companies are the most focused on filling positions. She discusses how to give your public facing profiles a facelift, up your networking game, and put together a job application strategy. If you are looking for a new role you need to listen! (These tips apply at any point of the year, not just during September) OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book RESUME TEMPLATE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/e985fd77-7555-40b0-9595-96b6cffa3e69 FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this episode of DDOD, Michela answers your money/career/life questions! From how to stop impulse spending to optimizing your time while working from home. Here are the questions she covers: -How do I stop impulse spending on clothes and shopping? -What HYSA do you recommend? What bank accounts do you use? -Do you have recommendations for the car buying process? -Is there such thing as “saving too much?” -Do you have advice for job hunters that are desperate to get out of a toxic job? -How to decide between paying off medium interest debt and investing? How to optimize efficiency when working from home? -How to become a morning person? -How do you structure your business? -Have I read ‘Die With Zero' and what do I think about the strategy? -Advice for balancing saving for retirement and medium term goals like a down payment? -Reasons for wanting to move away from LA?

(sorry the audio on this is a tad weird!) OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this episode of DDOD, Michela does a deep dive on credit cards! She covers what factors make up your credit score, how to build and boost your credit, how to figure out the right credit card for you, and her current suite of cards. If you have credit card questions and are looking for the right card, this is a great episode for you!

HYSA vs. CD Article: https://www.ally.com/stories/save/cd-vs-savings-account/ OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares 5 tips to navigate and prepare for a recession. There were many compounding factors that have led to this point and unfortunately we are on the edge of what could be another recessionary period. If you are feeling concerned and are seeking tips on how to prepare your finances and your career for a recession, this is for you! She covers: -How to take a financial snapshot -How to evaluate your cash position -Why you should prioritize your debt -How to find areas in your budget to reduce -Why you need to uplevel your skillset

OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares 5 steps to get your spark back if you are feeling in a funk! From focusing on your routines, getting out of the house, asking for help, spending extra time planning, and more. If you are also dealing with the summer blues or have just been feeling “off” this is for you!

On this episode of DDOD, Michela is joined by Matt Schulz to discuss tactics for advocating for and negotiating your money! Matt Schulz is a credit analyst at lending tree, and has been featured on national shows like good morning America, today show, NBC nightly news and more to share his expertise around personal finance and taking control of your financial life. His book, Ask Questions, Saving Money, Make more is a powerful, step by step guide for improving your finances by getting better rates and discounts from credit card companies, banks, hospitals, and other businesses, just by asking! The book is full of scripts and scenarios to help you advocate for yourself with more confidence. Questions we cover: -Financial lessons for your younger self -How to feel more confident speaking up and asking the right questions -Questions to ask across the 7 most important categories of your money: credit/debt, healthcare, housing, shopping, travel, work, and relationships Matt's Book: https://www.mattschulz.com/ OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

This week Michela is answering your personal questions! She shares an update on how dating is going, future travel plans and a big trip for 2025, how she organizes future purchases, her "menu" for emotional shopping, books she is reading, combining finances and more! OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

On this episode of DDOD, Michela does a formal life catch up from her last few weeks of travel. Between her time in NYC, on Cape Cod, and in SF - she shares a ton of new life updates and perspectives! OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Don't Depend on Daddy Moment of the Week: https://forms.gle/X4i4Q11rxqaNhX9y8 FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links

OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Don't Depend on Daddy Moment of the Week: https://forms.gle/X4i4Q11rxqaNhX9y8 FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this episode of DDOD, Michela shares 5 new money and career lessons she has learned in her 20s! From going against the grain, learning how to enjoy your money, to really OWNING your decisions throughout your life, this episode is an eye-opener. If you're feeling lost and want to take your professional and financial power back, this is for you.

OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Don't Depend on Daddy Moment of the Week: https://forms.gle/X4i4Q11rxqaNhX9y8 FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this SPECIAL episode of DDOD, Michela is reading Chapter 1 of OWN YOUR CAREER, which is now *OFFICIALLY* available for purchase! You'll hear her 4 most important career lessons she learned in her 20s along with her career story, from navigating corporate post-grad, to finding a corporate job she didn't hate, and starting Break Your Budget and turning it into a 7-figure business. If you're ready to take your professional power back, this is for you!

OWN YOUR CAREER: https://breakyourbudget.com/oyc-book Don't Depend on Daddy Moment of the Week: https://forms.gle/X4i4Q11rxqaNhX9y8 FREE FINANCIAL PLAN CRASH COURSE: https://breakyourbudget.myflodesk.com/rojmq2zecg Personal Finance Dashboard: https://breakyourbudget.com/personal-finance-dashboard All Other Resources: www.breakyourbudget.com/links On this episode of DDOD, Michela tells the story of taking a pay cut. She recounts the decision-making process when switching industries and evaluating different job opportunities to navigate a career change. She also shares some untold stories that she has not talked about anywhere else!