EVEsdropping

Lindsay Sills is a loan officer with a passion for educating first-time home buyers about loans, down payment assistance, and the overall home-buying process. She's answering all our questions about where to start, whether or not you need a loan to buy a home, and what exactly the #LadyBallls movement is all about! If you want to know more about Lindsay, find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelindsayloanteam/ 

On this episode of EVEsdropping we're talking about the 25 things you should be doing by the time you turn 25. Okay, so we only got to a few of them—but you can find the full list here: https://earnspendlive.com/2016/05/25-things-25/ We're also talking about the hate piece that was published about us (I know I know, we're SO famous!) and how dudes can successfully talk to women. Because, you know, we're sooo scary. Can you even like hug women anymore?

What’s Happening in the News? Sexual assault. It’s literally everywhere. The current list of fallen “heroes” includes Charlie Rose, Louis CK, Al Franken, Harvey Weinstein, Brett Ratner, and more. (Nick Carter and Ed Westwick have also been added to the list :( :( :( ) Real Talk: How Men Can Help Women in the Fight for Equality Continue to treat women with respect. If you’re already a good man who treats women like the human beings that they are, you’re already making a difference. Just keep doing it (but don’t ask for credit for doing it). Listen and empathize. You will never be able to truly know or understand what women go through, but you can believe us when we tell you without getting defensive and saying “but not all men…” Don’t accuse women of exaggerating. When #MeToo first became popular, a lot of men were shocked. Which is understandable, but yes, it REALLY DOES HAPPEN THAT OFTEN. Call out bad behavior. Don’t make excuses for your friends. Think. When you hear a story, read an article, or get called out for something you’ve said, really stop to think. Not only about your actions or beliefs, but the norms society has placed on men and women as well. This thinking goes along with things that affect you. If your fiance/wife doesn’t want to take your last name, think about how unfair it is for women to be expected to change their entire identity. Think about why that same expectation isn’t placed on men. Think, read, listen, without getting mad.Unless you wanna get mad at the patriarchy. From Buzzfeed: “Whenever a woman expresses an opinion that makes you feel uncomfortable, try to understand why it makes you feel that way instead of getting defensive or belittling her.” Try to steer clear of hurtful terms. Don’t call your girlfriend or ex-girlfriend “crazy.” Don’t comment on the way your girlfriend’s friend dresses. Don’t call a female co-worker a “bitch” for speaking to you the way a male co-worker would.https://www.bitchmedia.org/article/feminist-fight-club/almost-z-list-words-avoid-when-talking-about-women-sexist-language If you’re a father, treat your daughter the way you would treat your son. Ask her to take out the garbage instead of washing the dishes.Not that anyone likes taking out the garbage - just that chores shouldn’t be gendered. Ask her about what book she’s reading instead of telling her how pretty she looks. Alternatively, if you have a son, teach him that women are human beings who deserve to be treated equally and with respect. They are not here for your entertainment or to cook your meals. Also, this is important—use paternity leave. Your wife grew a human fucking being inside of her (and gave up drinking) for 9 months and pushed that sucker out; you can stay home for a while and help her. This responsibility is not and should not be all on her; you participated in creating that thing.If you don’t have Paternity leave, start asking “why” If you have a wife, split cooking and cleaning equally. And don’t look for applause; it’s just as much your job as it is hers.https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/where-do-kids-learn-to-undervalue-women-from-their-parents/2017/11/10/724518b2-c439-11e7-afe9-4f60b5a6c4a0_story.html?tid=sm_fb&utm_term=.6d699d504415 At family functions—the holidays are coming up—pay attention to things like women cleaning the table and doing the dishes while men sit and watch TV. Get up and help. At work—don’t interrupt women. Give them credit where credit is due. Don’t steal their ideas. Ask them to join you at lunch instead of forming a boys’ club.White house amplification thingy If your boss or superior is a woman, respect her the same way you would a male boss. AKA don’t call her a “bossy lady.” She’s just a “boss.” If you’re in a position of power, use it for good. *Story about my dad* The Rock Test. If you wouldn’t say it or do it to Dwayne The Rock Johnson, don’t fucking say or do it to a woman. Watch female-led TV shows and movies. Think about it: No woman in the history of the world has ever said Iron Man, James Bond, or The Arrow are “too manly.” But how many times have you said “no” to watching something because it’s a “girl show?” Watch Gilmore Girls. Watch Jane the Virgin. Watch Wonder Woman. If you think women are “confusing” or “complicated,” maybe it’s because you’ve never actually put yourself in their shoes. You’d be surprised at how easy it actually is (and how much you’ll enjoy these TV shows and movies). Educate yourself on consent. Even if you’re in a relationship or married, women reserve the right to say “no.” Even if they’re smiling while they say it (they’re probably trying to be as nice as possible as not to offend you or piss you off). Even if they don’t have “a good reason.” No means no, not maybe. Not try harder. Understand that your “compliments” can offend women. Whether it’s catcalling (which is disgusting) or hitting on a woman because she’s just so “beautiful,” you’re not doing women any favors. They knew they were hot without you yelling it at them from your car. From XO Jane: “Don’t treat your spouse like a “nag.” If she is ‘nagging,’ you are probably lagging.” YAS. If you feel bad about making more money than women (as you should), donate to female-centric charities. Get involved in politics. Then stay involved. Vote for candidates who value women and women’s issues. Donate to their campaigns. Other Sources: http://metro.co.uk/2017/10/17/heres-a-list-of-ways-in-which-men-can-actually-help-women-7005448/ https://www.xojane.com/issues/feminism-men-practical-steps Boss/Adulting/Soap Box Meleah: ROY MOORE IS FLAMING HUMAN GARBAGE AND PEOPLE ARE STILL DEFENDING HIM LITERALLY BECAUSE HE’S NOT A DEMOCRAT. He was banned from a mall for being an old creep, was creepy to a 14 yo (allegedly) and admits to dating 17 year olds. Y’all, that is my baby sister’s age. I would love it if that man died in a fire.Therefore, I donated to Doug Jones’ campaign As a democrat, I’ve got other opinions on why it’s good for a democrat to get the seat. But as a person? I need it to not be Roy-I-like-teenagers-because-they’re-virgins-moore What We’re Loving This Week Elise: Earn Spend Live’s new printable planning pages, free for a limited time. We have monthly, weekly, and daily pages. Download them here: https://earnspendlive.com/printable-planning-pages/ Meleah: Time off (because of Thanksgiving) to reset and recharge.

To attract millennials, a lot of employers like to brag about their open offices, free food and beer, and ping pong tables. But we’re here to tell you, as ACTUAL MILLENNIALS, that what we actually want isn’t so frivolous -- is a little maternity leave too much to ask??? Plus, we’re recapping the 2017 Emmys, talking about “Not Peter’s” girls, and introducing a new segment called “Adulting Confessions.” What’s Happening in the News? 2017 EmmysRachel Bloom had to buy her Emmy’s dress because designers don’t like working with not-size-0 people. 11% is the number of nominated writers and directors who are women = of the 36 nominated writers, only four are women. Laura Dern won Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series for “Big Little Lies” and said “I’ve been acting since I was 11 years old and I think I’ve worked with maybe 12 women.” Kate McKinnon brought her girlfriend as her date. Did we know she dated girls??Gurl she only dates girls: http://theweek.com/articles/476803/kate-mckinnon-who-snls-first-openly-lesbian-cast-memberThat said I did not know she was the first openly gay cast member on SNL Sidenote Demi Lovato is “not talking about being bisexual” because like who should actually care? It has “nothing to do with [her] music.” Anna Farris reportedly looked “good despite her divorce.” Because she was gonna shave her head??? And bash things with an umbrella???? Reality Steve is still on his soapbox about Arie Jr., aka “Not Peter.” Erin Condren is having a sale -- everything on the site is 25% off right now, no code needed. Visit https://earnspendlive.com/go/erincondrencom Real Talk: Workplace Benefits Millennials Actually Want What people think we want: Ping pong tables Beer kegs Open offices Unlimited PTO Pet-friendly offices Free food According to a survey conducted by FC Consulting on Millennial Benefit Preferences, 73% of respondents are offered at least one benefit that they don’t value. What we actually want: Maternity Leave Healthcare obvi Flexible schedule Professional Development Travel Vacation + sick days we can actually use 401k Contributions Pet-friendly offices Student Loan Repayment Adulting Confessional: Meleah: I bought some HELLA CHEAP ON SALE STAR WARS SHEETS. Jeddy hates them, but I love them. Target, yo.. These are my exact sheets, but there are several other options: https://www.target.com/p/star-wars-174-logo-sheet-set/-/A-52134616#lnk=sametab&preselect=52047567 Elise: I might have bought a Wonder Woman poster for my future child’s nursery. Not confirming or denying. Just in case I did, here’s the link: http://amzn.to/2wF5Cny What We’re Loving This Week Elise: The Fall 2017 Box of Style -- https://earnspendlive.com/go/boxofstyle and use code FALL10 for $10 off your box! Meleah: MY STAR WARS SHEETS.

We have a very special guest on EVEsdropping today -- Nicole Wipp, CEO of Wipp Enterprises, a consulting and training firm that specializes in team building and leadership. We’ve been dying to talk to a team building expert because we’re young twentysomethings (as are you) and we work with a bunch of other young twentysomethings, and we’re all trying to figure out how to communicate professionally and move up the corporate ladder. Nicole's dishing her advice on learning more about yourself, navigating conflict, and understanding your teammates' behaviors. Take the Entrepreneurial Instinct Quiz, learn more about Nicole, and don't forget to subscribe to EVEsdropping on iTunes!

Rachel chose the wrong guy and we have A LOT OF FEELINGS ABOUT IT. Plus, we're talking about our predictions for Bachelor in Paradise, making fun of Lindsay Lohan's new "lifestyle" website, and crying about Chris Pratt & Anna Faris' breakup. What’s Happening in the News? No one wants to pay for Lindsay Lohan’s “lifestyle” advice. http://jezebel.com/lindsay-lohans-lifestyle-site-isnt-doing-so-well-1797548033  Brave man who dates a “curvy” girl. http://www.refinery29.com/2017/08/166632/robbie-tripp-husband-letter-curvy-women-attraction  Jennifer Lawrence is being blamed for Chris Pratt & Anna Faris’ breakup. Which is sexist and unfair. Also she’s in a relationship so back off. http://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/why-do-we-blame-women-in-a-celebrity-break-up  Real Talk: The Bachelorette Season 13 Finale + Bachelor in Paradise Season 4 Premiere I’m comin’ for you, Rachel. Not only did she settle for a ring (and the loser behind the ring), she totally trashed Peter and tried to sabotage his chances of becoming the next bachelor. NOT A GOOD LOOK. New BIP rules Also BIP looks like Girls Gone Wild (but I’m still here for it). BIP Predictions F*ck, Marry, Kill Peter, Bryan, and Dean Robby, Diggy, & Iggy Ben Z, Alex, and Dean What We’re Loving This Week Elise: KitNipBox. Laz loves his August goodies. The box is campfire-themed, and there’s a frog toy he loves in particular. KitNipBox is the best cat box to me because 1) they give a portion of each month’s proceeds to shelters and animal welfare organizations, and 2) they’re super interactive on social media. If you want your own KitNipBox, follow @lazasaurusrexx -- the link is in his bio! Meleah: Lana Del Rey’s new album. It’s good, yo. Boss/Adulting/Soap Box Elise: It’s a surprise. Meleah: I’m working, freelance writing, and dogsitting this week. I’m hustlin.

This is Christine’s last week with us at Earn Spend Live (she started with us as a writer and has been editing for the past six months), so we’re talking about her decision to make a complete career change and enroll in law school -- and everything that entails, like the financial realities of not being able to work your first year of law school, concerns and fears of taking the leap, and signs you, dear listener, are ready for a career change. Real Talk: Christine’s Leaving Us for Law School Why she made the decision Signs you’re ready for a career change Concerns and fears Dear HBIC I’m a junior in college and I’ve been dating the same guy since high school — in fact, he’s the ONLY guy I’ve ever dated. We actually broke up a few months ago because we had really grown apart and I wasn’t really feeling attracted to him anymore. But it didn’t last long because he’s my best friend and I really missed him. But ever since we got back together I realized I probably made a mistake — but now I don’t know how to end it again and I feel horrible about breaking his heart AGAIN because he’s a great guy and doesn’t deserve it. And, I don’t want to admit this, but also I’m scared of breaking up w/ him because I don’t really have friends and I spend all of my time with him. I don’t wanna be lonely and/or single for the rest of my life. Would You Rather… Have a 10-hour dinner with a headstrong politician from an opposing party, or attend a 10-hour concert for a music group you detest? Spend 20 years in prison and be exonerated as innocent or be put away for four years (despite your innocence) and be considered guilty forever? What We’re Loving This Week Christine: My new Erin Condren Academic planner from my work BFFs

Conflict at work is inevitable—but there are right and wrong ways to handle it. This week, we’re talking about how to deal with your co-workers as well as how to prevent conflict from happening. Plus, our girl Mindy Kaling is pregnant and we are HERE FOR IT. What’s Happening in the News? Caitlyn Jenner potentially running for senate. Just no. Dr. Who is now a woman. Feminism yay. Mindy Kaling is reportedly preeeegnant. (E! News reported it so it’s pretty much legit.) Real Talk: Dos and Don’ts of Handling Conflict at Work According to a conflict study from CPP Inc (from 2008), 85% of employees report dealing with conflict to some degree. Employees spend an average of 2.8 hours/week dealing with conflict. Personality clashes are responsible for nearly ½ of all workplace conflicts When is confrontation appropriate at work? When it’s hindering your ability to work, if it’s become a hostile work environment, or if sexual harassment is involved. Basically, when you can’t avoid it anymore   Our Personal Tips for Dealing With Work Conflict: Don’t get emotional. If it’s something small, like an out-of-the-blue mistake, send an email. If there’s an actual issue going on, schedule time to hash it out. But always try to work it out with the person you’re having a conflict with before you go above them to your boss or HR. Communicate 24/7 to prevent future issues. Suck it up. You’re not always going to get along with the people you work with; you just have to learn how to get along enough to be productive. Tips From an Expert on Dealing With Work Conflict: Dr. Maria Simpson, an executive coach, recommends that when you’re dealing with a conflict at work, you take the following steps: Get emotional distance from the immediate situation; Decide if a response is really necessary; Define the clear goal or results you want from responding; Plan the most appropriate response carefully; and Make it work. Read more ESL advice on office conflict here. Dear HBIC “I’m an assistant at a law firm. I take care of my boss’s correspondence and various others tasks he needs. Because of this I hear a lot about his personal life too. Not only that, he tells me way more about his personal life than is work appropriate. For example he once texted me that his child (who’s doesn’t live with him) was throwing a tantrum and he didn’t know what to do, or about a car accident he left without reporting anything. Last week it got to the worst point. He sent me a drunk text that he was sorry it had to end this way, and I thought he was firing me. It turned out he had some kind of mental break? He told me he was seeking professional help and now we haven’t had communication in a week. It makes me feel uncomfortable, but if I don’t talk to him then who will? He needs someone, I just wish it wasn’t me. There is also the fact that I don’t want to be fired; if I am cold-hearted to him will he want to keep me around?”   What We’re Loving This Week Elise: Soap and Glory. I tried their The Righteous Butter Instant Sunkissed Tint Body Lotion for the video we shot today and I am OBSESSED. It’s just the right amount of color so I don’t look pasty but I also still look like myself. And it washes off completely when you take a shower. You can find it at Target or by using our link: https://earnspendlive.com/go/soapandglory-sunkissedtint Meleah: My Day Designer has put the spark back in our relationship — by which I mean work is hectic and I’d be crazy without it. Boss/Adulting Moment Elise: I successfully went on vacation and didn’t check my work emails. I turned off all notifications, including Slack. It was wonderful. Meleah: I made time this weekend to volunteer with my little sister at the animal shelter and it was really great. Not only were the dogs and kittens really cute, but I also met some cool new people. Don’t forget to subscribe to EVEsdropping on iTunes and/or Podbean and use the hashtag #JustEVEsdropping on Twitter! Also, send your Dear HBIC questions to hitusup@earnspendlive.com.

Elise is turning 25 this week, so the quarter-life crisis feels are running high on our team. We’re talking what the quarter-life crisis is, what triggers it, and how to just not give a shit. Plus, we’re giving our humble opinions on Lindsay Lohan’s new lifestyle site, Kylie and Kendall’s blatant disrespect for musical icons, and Bachelor in Paradise’s future (as always). What’s Happening in the News? Lindsay Lohan launched a lifestyle site and it costs $2.99 a month. Kylie & Kendall Jenner put their faces over a bunch of musical legends on T-shirts.Sharon Osbourne was NOT having it. http://www.refinery29.com/2017/06/161306/kendall-kylie-vintage-shirts-black-culture-appropriation?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=post Bachelor in Paradise will show Corrine and DeMario before the incident + discuss what happened when the show premieres. Real Talk: The Quarter-Life Crisis is Happening What are the triggers? Love life. Whether you’re single or in a long-term relationship without being engaged, the pressure is there. JUST LET ME LIVE. Friendships. Your friends are either on baby #2 or they’re still partying 4 nights a week. There is no in-between. Work. Not making as much as you’d like? Maybe you’re thinking about going back to school? Who tf knows what they want to do when they grow up?? Finances: 401k, IRA, emergency fund, credit score blah blah blah. Basically you’re too old to ask your parents for money anymore.   YOUR BODY. Weight gain. Cellulite. Spider veins. Wrinkles. It’s all happening right fucking now. Also less energy and a harder time losing weight.   Meleah: the worst part for me is that I’m old/mature enough to know that I shouldn’t care about these things… but I STILL CARE OKAY. Dear HBIC “So I have two friends-slash-acquaintances who are pregnant. They’re both friends of friends (one of them is my boyfriend’s best friend’s wife). Well, a mutual friend is texting me asking what I think about throwing them a joint surprise baby shower since they are both having boys and they are due around the same time in like September or October. I really feel like she’s trying to get me to volunteer my house for this but liiiiiike….is it my responsibility to throw these people a baby shower??????? I feel like I know them well enough to GO to their baby shower, but I’m not sure I feel close enough to them to be the one who is hosting it. Plus she’s wanting to do it at the end of August, which is going to be a CRAZY time for me since I’ll have just quit my job to start grad school. Oh and not to mention i’m going to be broke af. Because grad school. Our answer: That’s weird AF. Tell her no. Make an excuse. Do what you have to do. But that’s just weird for everyone involved -- and it sounds like you have better shit to do. BTW, don’t forget to send us your Dear HBIC questions!!! Send to: hitusup@earnspendlive.com. Would You Rather… Live to the age of 90 and retain the mind of a 25-year-old for the last 65 years of your life, or the body of a 25-year old for the last 65 years of your life? What We’re Loving This Week Meleah: Follow up on “what we’re loving” from two weeks ago: GLOW rocks. This week, I’m loving secondhand fast fashion. Forever 21 clothes at Goodwill prices? Yes plz. Elise: My new notebook from The Crybaby Club. It says “I may cry but I can still get things done” and it was my birthday gift from Meleah and Christine.

We definitely got caught up in the moment and forgot to introduce ourselves -- this week Terra and Elise are talking about the ridiculous ending to the show that should've ended like three years ago, Pretty Little Liars. We're rehashing the best moments of the series finale, the worst (there are a lot), and we're playing Fuck, Marry, Kill and Would You Rather. And make sure to stick around until the end -- we're constructing the Hastings/DeLaurentis/Drake family (and it's a doozy).

On this episode of EVEsdropping, we’re talking to Robyn Crane, host of the TV show The Financial G-Spot and radio show Let’s Talk Money, as well as 4-time #1 best-selling author, about—what else??—how to make more money and advance in your career. Her new book, Make More Money, Help More People, came out in March. Stay tuned until the end of our interview to get a free gift from Robyn!!! (And to hear the latest about Bachelor in Paradise's fate.) Buy Robyn's book, Make More Money, Help More People, on Amazon: https://earnspendlive.com/go/makemoremoney-robyncrane  The article about Glow Meleah mentioned: https://www.thecut.com/2017/06/glow-is-alison-brie-as-youve-never-seen-her.html 

This week, we have special guest joining us: Austin, aka Elise's boyfriend, aka Laz's dad. Father's Day is this weekend, so we're talking about how becoming a cat parent totally changes your life. Plus, how can we not talk about that Bachelor in Paradise bombshell??? Our summer is officially ruined. What’s Happening in the News? Production on Bachelor in Paradise has been suspended maybe indefinitely???Almost definitely indefinitely. I don’t want to say too much because rumors are bad, but from all accounts, it was a bad situation, the producers should have stepped in, producers did not. Now they're being sued.It's like UnREAL IRL. Real Talk: Confessions of a Cat Dad Austin and I brought Laz home about six months ago. He was never really a cat person, but then he met Laz. And now he's a cat dad! You weren’t always a cat person. In fact, you really only agreed to getting a cat to make me happy. So how has that changed? It took me a minute, but I fell in love with Laz. He's really unique though; he's not a normal cat. He snuggles, he plays, and he likes having people over.  What things did you not expect when getting a cat? What’s had to change in your life? I didn't expect the vet bills. We've had a lot with Laz; he kind of had a rough start. How has Laz proven your perceptions of cats wrong? Every other cat I've ever known has been really skittish; even your other cats. When I'd come over, they'd disappear. So I was nervous to get a cat, but Laz is the coolest. He's like a dog. What’s the worst part about being a cat dad? There's litter everywhere constantly. We vacuum almost every day and it's still everywhere. What’s the best part about being a cat dad? Having a buddy to binge-watch TV with. We bonded over all six seasons of Game of Thrones. Do you still want a dog, or is Laz it? I still want a dog, someday. I loved raising Laz, so I'd want a puppy. But not now. That's too much work right now. Maybe when we get a house. How has raising a kitten together changed our relationship?It's definitely changed it for the better. We feel like more of a family + our communication has had to improve to establish who does what for Laz (like scooping his poop, brushing him, feeding him, etc.). Would You Rather… Have a house full of like 20 cats or never be able to get a pet ever? Not even a fish. Have a cat that acts like a dog or a dog that acts like a cat? Have a cat who doesn’t cuddle or a cat who doesn’t play? Boss/Adulting Moment Elise: ESL KPIs; created my own budget. Austin: I've been putting more money from each paycheck into my savings account. Don't forget to subscribe to EVEsdropping on iTunes (and rate and review us); plus, let us know what you think about Bachelor in Paradise's fate with the hashtag #JustEVEsdropping. 

Emotional spending: We all do it, even if we don’t necessarily realize it. So how do you break the vicious cycle? We have some tips and tricks for nipping your emotional spending habit in the bud. Plus, we’re talking about Wonder Woman breaking the glass ceiling, all things The Bachelorette, and unREAL being pushed back to 2018 (wtf). Real Talk: Tips & Tricks for Curbing Emotional Spending According to ISPO News, 90% of purchases are made subconsciously. By age 30, you will have seen close to 2 million commercials. ADVERTISERS WANT TO FUCK YOU UP. According to Jaleesa Charissa, a beauty and lifestyle blog, 52% of Americans engage in retail therapy to improve their mood.Every month, more than 500 people tweet about how they wish retail therapy was covered by their health insurance. What are the triggers? The “high” of spending or having new things “Retail therapy” aka you sad Maintaining your “image” The need to feel “powerful” aka in-control You shop when you’re bored http://www.creditcards.com/credit-card-news/8-emotional-spending-triggers-1580.php  How to get your spending in checkSet (and stick to) a budget Carry cash instead of plastic No-spending challenges Enlist the help of a friend to monitor your spending Don’t let your browser save your credit card. FIND A NEW HOBBY To really curb emotional spending, you need to address the triggers. What’s Going on in the World WONDER WOMAN BROKE THE MOTHERFUCKING GLASS CEILING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Literally that’s it that’s all that matters Also Chris Hemsworth and Gal Gadot both agree Wonder Woman could totally take Thor in a fight. Same. Bachelorette check-in: Rachel “loved” that Dean said “once you go black you never go back” and also one contestant has super offensive tweets. So a Bachelor intern is getting fired. ALSO ALSO Rachel might’ve dated a famous basketball player. Meleah: you mean a bach intern is getting a raise http://variety.com/2017/scene/vpage/unreal-co-creator-sarah-gertrude-shapiro-bachelorette-rachel-lindsay-unreal-lifetime-1202453839/ UnReal’s release is being pushed to 2018BOO those whores. Dear HBIC I’m 22 and I don’t have a credit card. I feel like I need to do something to build my credit, but my parents think getting a credit card is a mistake. What’s a good way to start building up my credit history and start being more financially independent? You're an adult, sooo you don't exactly need your parents' permission. Our advice would just be to get a credit card, but if you really want to respect your parents' wishes, you have a few options for building credit. Buy furniture (but make sure the furniture store reports to the credit bureau) and pay it off. Ask your parents to co-sign on a car (again, make sure they report) or a loan. Start paying off your student loans. Get a secured credit card. Your parents can load the money on there (like $200) and just use it for things like gas and eating out. Boss/Adulting Moment Meleah: Got my new job title finalized with my boss. It’s very exciting but I’m not 100% sure I’m allowed to tell y’all yet. Stay tuned. Elise: I made the switch to Day Designer and I am more organized than ever. Literally obsessed. I’ve thought about posting pictures but I don’t want to like “glorify busy” or w/e. Subscribe to EVEsdropping on iTunes and Podbean, and use our hashtag #JustEVEsdropping on Twitter to sound off. And don’t forget to send in your Dear HBIC questions to hitusup@earnspendlive.com!

Our personal mantra might be "just let me live," but our professional mantra is "soft skills are everything." So what are soft skills? Why are they important? Which ones are the most important? Plus, we're talking about Kaitlyn Bristowe's new podcast and answering our weekly "Dear HBIC." Real Talk: Why Soft Skills Are More Important Than Technical Skills What are soft skills? The top ten most popular soft skills companies say they look for when hiring include: 1) Candidate has a strong work ethic – 73 percent 2) Candidate is dependable – 73 percent 3) Candidate has a positive attitude – 72 percent 4) Candidate is self-motivated – 66 percent 5) Candidate is team-oriented – 60 percent 6) Candidate is organized, can manage multiple priorities – 57 percent 7) Candidate works well under pressure – 57 percent 8) Candidate is an effective communicator – 56 percent 9) Candidate is flexible – 51 percent 10) Candidate is confident – 46 percent http://www.careerbuilder.com/share/aboutus/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?sd=4/10/2014&id=pr817&ed=12/31/2014 Why are they important?Research conducted by Harvard University, the Carnegie Foundation and Stanford Research Center concluded that 85% of job success comes from having well‐developed soft and people skills, and only 15% of job success comes from technical skills and knowledge (hard skills). http://www.nationalsoftskills.org/the-soft-skills-disconnect/ Why do we think Soft Skills are #1?You can teach hard skills. It’s really difficult to teach soft skills. I’d much rather work with someone who has no experience and wants to learn as opposed to someone who’s good at their job but hard to work with. Hard Skills still matter -- that’s how you get your foot in the door. Almost 40% of HR pros only pass along the resumes of the candidates that have the technical skills to do the job. https://about.beyond.com/Content/Resources/files/Media/pdfs/HardskillsVsSoftskills.pdf Dear HBIC So, I am in a position in which I hire college students to work PT in an office setting as a marketing assistant. The number of candidates who want a customized schedule and already come to the interview with a laundry list of days off (that they NEED to have) is baffling to me. I know I probably sound like an old 'boomer' but within your first 60 days, you shouldn’t need 17 days off for vacation. Am I being unreasonable? Would You Rather… Never drink in front of your coworkers or always be the one who gets a little (way) too drunk Be filthy rich and live 200 years ago or be poor but live today? What We’re Loving This Week Elise: Kaitlyn Bristowe’s podcast, Off the Vine Meleah: Traditional Medicinals “Throat Coat” tea. It’s kind of gross, but it’s great when I’m feeling under the weather. Subscribe to EVEsdropping on iTunes and Podbean, and use our hashtag #JustEVEsdropping on Twitter to sound off. And don't forget to send in your Dear HBIC questions to hitusup@earnspendlive.com!

We finally have our first black Bachelorette, and we are HERE FOR IT. On this edition of TV Tuesday, we're talking about why we're obsessed with Rachel Lindsay, what's going on in Bachelor nation (two non-fan-fave couples broke up this week, shocker), what we think of this season's contestants, and who we hope to see in Bachelor in Paradise. What’s Going On in Bachelor Nation? Lauren & Ben broke upLauren took the furniture. Apparently it was all hers. Bc she made him get rid of literally everything he owned!!!!!! Including his like sentimental garage door headboard that he’d had since he was a kid. Also she got it for a Joss & Main shoot - she’s living that #SponCon life Rumors that he’s with Ashley I.!!!!!!!! ^ They have a podcast together? Also ew? Other couple no one cares about broke up (the virgin and some dude).Becca and Robert Chris Soules...jfc Kaitlyn and Shawn are still literally perfect (sidenote where is their spinoff reality show? Literally everyone has one except the people who deserve it most.) Apparently someone from this Bachelorette season tried to hit up Carly and Evan is out for live-tweeting revenge. http://imgur.com/VYsDHDq Why We’re Obsessed With Rachel Smart Funny Those legs tho

FYI: This podcast was recorded while streaming live on Facebook. We’ve talked about it here before: Yes, the gender pay gap still exists in 2017. White women make $0.80 to every man’s dollar; for black women it’s $0.64, and for Hispanic women it’s $0.54. BUT some states are better for women than others. Best States for Employment and Earnings Maryland Massachusetts New Jersey Connecticut Worst States for Employment and Earnings West Virginia Idaho Louisiana Mississippi Arkansas (rank 47, yikes!) States With Highest Median Earnings for Female Workers Virginia Delaware Illinois Maryland States With Lowest Median Earnings for Female Workers Maine Montana Oregon California Hawaii The states with the most female-owned businesses are Alaska, Colorado, Virginia, Florida, and Georgia—Alaska is #1. According to Refinery29, it will take until 2152 to close the gender pay gap. WTF Dear HBIC I’m struggling with my roommate. Her boyfriend is an a-hole and is constantly at our house. One night when I wasn't home, they got in a fight and he told her she needs to lose 20 pounds. Later when I talked to her, she told me she wished I had been there because I would stand up for her. He comments on her weight and what she eats all the time so I hate him. He also does laundry at our house every week, and, this sounds petty, but one time he drank my beer and ate my girl scout cookies. He hangs out at our house when she isn’t even there. It's making me and my other roommate both not want to be home, but I'm not sure how to go about it. I don't want to trash her relationship because then I’m scared she’ll get defensive and be with him more, which is the opposite of what she needs. So I’m literally wondering, how do I restrain from killing someone who ate my girl scout cookies? Will Earn Spend Live fund my bail? No, we won't. (unless you write about it for us. We kid, we kid.) There are two separate issues here: How he treats your roommate/friend, and how he takes advantage of your apartment without paying rent (or buying you new cookies!!). So first off, talk to your roommate about the way he treats her. Definitely don't tell her what to do; you don't want her to end up resenting you or being pushed closer to this asshole. Let her know that you support her no matter what, but you think she deserves better. The second issue: Sit down with your roommate and set some guidelines on guests' behavior. For example, if they eat someone else's food, they must replace it or pay up. If they stay more than three days, they need to chip in on rent. Etc. Figure out what works best for you both, but without set guidelines in place it's hard to really put your foot down. Would You Rather… Have no friends or only have friends who annoy you? Would you rather be the office gossip or be left out of all the office gossip? What We’re Loving This Week Elise: KitNipBox!!! Head to our Instagram and watch the amazing video of my cat Laz playing with all of his new KitNipBox toys :) And then head to https://earnspendlive.com/go/kit-nip-box to sign up! Meleah: Pizza. Send your Dear HBIC questions to hitusup@earnspendlive, sound off on literally everything we’ve said with the hashtag #JustEVEsdropping on Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe on iTunes. Oh, and like our FB live video please! :) Most of our data came from: https://earnspendlive.com/2017/04/best-worst-states-women-live-work/ 

Taking the plunge and spending the rest of your life with someone is kind of a big decision, and there are a few things you should be discussing about your future first. From credit and debt to family values, we're breaking it down into 17 key questions. Plus, we're talking about the future of Once Upon a Time and the level of garbage Chris Soules actually is. Real Talk: Questions to Ask Before Getting Engaged Money Do either of you have debt? How much? How good are both of you with money? (Any shopping problems? Gambling problems?) How is their credit? How is yours? Family (Particularly important if you’re from different religious backgrounds) Do you want children? How many? Where do you want to live? Do you want to be close to family or do you want to move? Do you get along with their family? Do they get along with yours? How are we going to handle holidays? Values “How important is religion to you?” --NY Times Would you rather have a big rock and small house or a big house and small rock? What are you willing to sacrifice? I.e. career success or family time. “Do we have more than just love?” --Bustle Relationship: Where do you see us in five years? “How important is sex to you?” --NY Times How much privacy do we each need and expect? What’s the #1 reason you would get divorced? How do you resolve conflict? What are your fighting styles? Who’s cooking? Who’s cleaning? The News Jennifer Morrison, who plays Emma, won’t be returning for season 7 of Once Upon a Time—if there even is a season 7, which we’ll find out sometime this week. Chris Soules apparently didn’t hit and run. He just hit, called the police, then ran when the guy bled out. So like still bad, but not as bad. Would You Rather... Work opposite work shifts of your SO so you barely see them or never have any alone time? Be dumped for being too feminist or have to like, iron his clothes forever? What questions did you and your significant other ask each other before getting engaged? Are we totally overthinking it here? Is love actually an open door? Tell us with #JustEVEsdropping on Twitter! And don't forget to email us your Dear HBIC questions to hitusup@earnspendlive.com.

Sarah DeClerk runs her business, Ann Potter Baking, out of her own home. She creates beautiful, drool-worthy cookies for special events and for customers on Etsy. She currently has 17.2k followers on Instagram, and she was one of Little Rock Soire's "Women to Watch" in 2016. While her business is obviously booming, she'd rather keep her business at home than expand. Find out why in our interview with Sarah here!

Buying a home is kind of a huge effing deal. But we’re adults now, so it’s time to talk about the pros and cons of buying a home vs. renting a home. Here are six things you should consider -- plus, we’re giving advice on how to make friends in college, why you should watch Girlboss on Netflix, and whether we’d rather have an engagement ring or a big house. Renting vs. Buying a Home in Arkansas (From Business Insider): Monthly rent in Arkansas: $1,050 Monthly mortgage in Arkansas: $769 Things to Consider Are you planning on moving in the next 5-10 years? Renting offers more mobility. Are you planning on starting a family soon? Can you make a down-payment of 20%? “If not, that generally means you’ll be charged a higher interest rate. You’ll also likely have to pay mortgage insurance, a monthly fee that ranges from about $50 to $500 and goes directly to an insurance company protecting the bank’s interest—not yours.” —LearnVest Do you have a good credit score? Are you down to mow the lawn, upkeep, and fix things around the house? All extra expenses.Some of that comes with renting a house, too. Is renting keeping you from doing something that you want?Are you someone who really loves personalizing their home? Do you want a dog but live somewhere that doesn’t allow pets? Tools to Help You Decide: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/upshot/buy-rent-calculator.html?_r=0 https://www.zillow.com/rent-vs-buy-calculator/ http://www.realtor.com/mortgage/tools/rent-or-buy-calculator/ Dear HBIC I’m a sophomore in college and I haven’t made any friends. This is supposed to be the best time of my life? But how do I meet people and hang with them? First of all, you should know that making friends in college is important because 1) you're building your network; you never know who could be a good connection in the future, and 2) making friends only gets harder AFTER college. Get out of your comfort zone. Go out. But not just to parties; join clubs and organizations, ask people to lunch, study at the library instead of in your dorm room. Oh, and always leave your dorm room door open. Would You Rather... Have a little ring and a big house or a big ring and a small house Be Lena Dunham’s BFF or Chrissy Teigen’s enemy What We’re Loving This Week Elise: KitNipBox! My cat, Laz, loves KitNipBox, but we took the April box to the Little Rock Humane Society and gave the toys and treats to the kitties there. KitNipBox is also cool because they donate a portion of proceeds every month to animal-specific charities, including The Paw Project, Animal Care and Control of NYC, Brooklyn Animal Action, and the San Francisco SPCA. ALSO: NECTAR mattresses, coupon code: ESL100. Meleah: Girlboss on Netflix. Love it or hate it, it's worth the watch. Boss and/or Adulting Moment   Elise: Last week was chaotic and I didn’t get anything actually important on my to-do list done. So I worked Saturday to get caught up, and this week has been SO much easier. Meleah: I went to the retirement party for my honors college’s dean. It just seemed like something adults do. If you have more questions about renting vs. buying a home, email us at hitusup@earnspendlive.com or use #JustEvesdropping on Twitter!

Today on EVEsdropping, we're talking email organization via Inbox Zero, how to turn your internship into a full-time job, plus we're introducing some new segments, called "Dear HBIC" and "Would You Rather" (you might've heard of the latter, idk).  Real Talk: Email Organization/Inbox Zero Create specific folders. Lots, and lots, and lots of folders. When an email comes in, do something with it. Is it something you need to keep for reference? Move to a folder. Is it a task you need to complete? Leave it in your inbox. Could you complete the task in less than like 3 min? Just do it. If it’s an email in a thread, delete the earlier emails and keep the later ones. The later messages still have all the info you need in them. Don’t get behind. It’s easier to get an inbox with 50 emails back down to zero than it is 300. Unsubscribe, unsubscribe, unsubscribe. Dear HBIC “I’m an intern and I really like the company I’m working for. I’m definitely open to working here after graduation, but they haven’t asked me to stay. Should I wait for them to bring it up, or let them know that I’d like to come on full-time? And what do I even say?” Step one: Make sure you're good at your job and your employer likes you. Step two: Ask for it as soon as you know your plans after graduation. Step three: Slay. Would You Rather... Never use emojis ever again or only be able to send the poop emoji? Sleep with your boss and get a promotion (but no one knows) or would you rather get a promotion and have everyone think you slept with your boss but you didn’t? What We’re Loving This Week Elise: Still my NECTAR mattress, holla. To read the review, visit: https://earnspendlive.com/2017/03/nectar-mattress-review/ and use our coupon code, ESL100 to get $100 off your mattress purchase! Meleah: MOANA. Boss and/or Adulting Moment Elise: I'm becoming videographer for a day; our videographer couldn't make it to a video interview shoot this week so I'm filling in. He showed me how to use the camera and gave me a checklist, so I'm officially adding "videographer temp" to my resume. Meleah: I am making phone calls like a madwoman. I’m renovating/buying/who tf knows this house that was built in 1915 and it needs some work. I’m getting every service out there to get me a bid.  Tell us how many emails YOU have in your inbox by using the hashtag #JustEVEsdropping. And send your questions for "Dear HBIC" to hitusup@earnspendlive.com!

Our HR Manager, Melanie Clayton, is dishing out advice on everything from job search strategies, to why attending job fairs is important, to finding the confidence you need to negotiate your salary. Have questions about the job search? Email us at hitusup@earnspendlive.com and we'll have Melanie answer your questions! Need help resume writing? Download our free, printable resume templates here: https://earnspendlive.com/downloads-printables/

Although EVEsdropping typically comes out each Wednesday, we decided to put this one out a day early in honor of Equal Pay Day (which is April 4th this year). What is Equal Pay Day? We're so glad you asked! National Equal Pay Day is the day in the year women must work to “catch up” to men’s earnings from the previous year. White women make 80% of what men make in the workplace, so it has taken us until today to make what men made in 2016. African American women’s equal pay day will be July 31st. Latina women’s equal pay day will be November 2nd. Why does the gender pay gap exist? Here are a few reasons: https://actuallyshecan.com/Content/pdfs/mentorship/leadership_gender_gap.pdf We put together a handy little infographic about the Pink Tax (aka all the sh*t we have to pay for that men don't): https://earnspendlive.com/2017/04/pink-tax-how-expensive-woman/   What’s Going on in the News? The Mindy Project will end after season six.

Roommates: We've all been there, done that. Is it worth it? We're going over the pros and cons—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Plus, we're talking about the new season of Dancing With the Stars, Uber's president stepping down, Erin Condren's Seasonal Surprise Box, The Mindy Project, and overcoming our fears of public speaking. Real Talk: Pros and Cons of Having a Roommate Pros: Save $$$$. Also can share Netflix/Hulu log ins. Don’t have to live alone Period syncing. Taylor & I used to have “period dates” where we’d go out, order a big meal, and then come home and eat ice cream while watching a chick flick. On that note: built-in girl’s nights! You can borrow things: clothes/food/etc (with permission) Cons: I didn’t either! Someone’s in your space. Sexual situations (aka noises) Also just loudness/party noises. You have to wear pants. I didn’t, but you should. Confrontation Living styles: a messy person + a clean person = arguing Horror stories -- because we all know that’s what you’re here for.Christine: My roommate broke into my LOCKED bedroom while I was out of the country and letting her friends who I had never met have sex in my bed. Same roommate who had never touched a dishwasher or a washing machine before she moved out of her parents house and literally just threw dishes haphazardly into the dishwasher and washed every single outfit individually. Also Christine: My sister’s psycho roommate who was obsessed w/ her and slept in her bed, used her computer, and showered in her shower while she wasn’t home We’re not perfect. Here are some of our flaws/tips for making it werk: Moral of the Story: it’s nice to give your roommate a heads up Always be up front and talk it out. You may still not get your way, but ya know. I had a THING about people letting me know before they just busted people up into our room. So a few times, a roommate I had tension with would bring a dude over for SeXiEtYmEs and not give me a heads up. I’m not deaf, so I could hear that there was a dude in our room. I would make up an excuse to walk into the Living Room/kitchen anyway in my thong, fake embarrassment and an apology, and then go back to my room. Don't write passive-aggressive sticky notes. Don’t eat each other’s food. If you do, always replace. What’s Going on in the News?: Dancing With the Stars starts this week!!!!!!!! Nick Viall's awkwardness continues! Uber President quit bc sexual harassment. Yay. What We’re Loving This Week: Elise: The Erin Condren Seasonal Surprise Box. It's only $35 each quarter, and the value of the Spring 2017 box was $97.50. Sign up here: http://earnspendlive.com/go/erincondrencom Meleah: Mindy Lahiri is a white man. And it's amazing. Boss/Adulting Moments:   Elise: I SURVIVED MY PRESENTATION IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE COMPANY LAST WEEK. I’ll never top this again. Meleah: Elise’s presentation was so good. I won’t top that either. I… uh… worked Sunday night? Hit us up on Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag “JustEvesdropping” and tell us your roommate horror stories. Byee.

The lamest season in Bachelor history is finally over, and we have a lot of feelings. On this edition of TV Tuesday, we're going over all the ways Nick f*cked up this season, how long he and Vanessa will last, why Raven's better off without him (and on Bachelor in Paradise instead), and how excited we are for Rachel to be the new Bachelorette (although we hope the rest of the men aren't total goofs like the four men we met last night on After the Final Rose). 

Terra got the opportunity to chat with Ayesha Curry (we're all still freaking out about it, NBD) about how she balances career, family, and staying healthy. Because as it turns out, you CAN have it all.

Cold pitches: They don't have to be as scary as they sound. We're going over the dos and don'ts of sending a cold pitch and how to get an actual response from the stranger you're emailing.

It's 2017, so if you don't have a personal brand who even are you? We're talking about why it's important to establish a presence on social media, as well as how to actually do it.

Y'all know how much we

Although we're self-professed workaholics, we do have some advice for unwinding after a crazy work day. (Disclaimer: Two or more of them may involve snuggling with pets.)

This week, we're talking about the cons of living with our boyfriends. Okay, there might be a couple of pros too. (Sidenote, we experienced technical difficulties, so sadly you won't get to hear our adulting/boss moments this week. Apologies!)

We've talked a lot about emergency funds on the site, but on this podcast we're getting down to the nitty gritty details of how we built our emergency funds, when you should use it, and how to rebuild it.

Breaking down at work is pretty much the worst thing ever -- but shit happens. We've both done it, so we're giving our tips for keeping the tears at bay. Plus, we're checking in on our feelings about Bachelor Nick V and Crazy Corrine.

A new year is upon us, and you know what that means: Time to set resolutions, only to realize a week later that you're still just a lazy slob. Same.

The Bachelor Season 21 premiered this week and we're still not over The Great Shark/Dolphin Debate of 2017. Follow us @earnspendlive and use #JustEvesdropping to tell us what your favorite moment was!

This week we're trying to answer the age-old question: Which makes the better pet, cats or dogs? We're breaking down the expenses, the time commitments, all of it.

We have a VERY special guest this week: Bridget Casey of Money After Graduation, aka Meleah's favorite financial blog ever. We're talking all things debt: When it's okay to go into debt, when it's not, and how to get rid of it.

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us, but it's also the most stressful for your bank account. We're talking holiday budgeting tips and tricks, plus why you can watch the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and still "love your body," contrary to popular belief.

This week, we're reflecting on our retail days and discussing how it prepared us for our "big kid" jobs. We're also recapping the Gilmore Girls revival, so if you haven't watched it yet, do it NOW!

The moment we've all been waiting years for is FINALLY here and we won't shutup about it. Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life premieres on Netflix November 25th and we have a lot of feelings.

What does it really cost to adult? We're breaking it down: Rent, food, buying diapers for friends of friends' babies—all of it. 

This week we're talking literally all things friendship. Because we're work BFFs and real-life BFFs, we've got a few tips and tricks for making it werk. Plus, how friendship changes after college and how to not be a drama queen about it.

It's the creepiest time of the year, but that's no excuse to actually be a creep for Halloween. This week we're talking cultural appropriation, slutty costumes, and the importance of not handing out healthy shit to Trick-or-Treaters. You're welcome.

Jane the Virgin season 3 premiered this week and like always, we have some opinions. We're also playing Fuck, Marry, Kill and fighting about Team Michael vs. Team Rafael (but of course we're both Team Jane).

In our first-ever podcast interview (!!!), we're chatting with Katie and Kris of Cock & Crow -- both real-life partners and business partners -- about all things communication, work-life balance, and how to be a good business partner.

A year ago this week, Earn Spend Live was born (don't ask which day, we're not 100%). We're celebrating by reminiscing on how and why we created the site, all the bumps along the way, and what we've learned. Warning: We get just a little sentimental.

If you absolutely MUST talk politics at work, we have some pointers for you. After all, if a Democrat and a Republican (aka us) can build an empire together, you can at least be nice to your co-workers. Plus, we're discussing which beauty items you should splurge on vs. the ones you should just find a drugstore dupe for.

OUAT (finally) returns this Sunday and we're crying tears of joy that Hook (and the Evil Queen's cleavage) will finally be on our TVs again. 

Terra and Christine are taking over the podcast this week and they're freaking out over the fact that Miss Arkansas won Miss America. They're also freaking out over how much they love their dogs (and how expensive they are).

This just in: Lena Dunham is the worst. (I know, we're late to the party.) Plus, we're laying down the law and declaring TV-watching a hobby. Because what else would you call fangirling over Gina Rodriguez and Priyanka Chopra for hours on end?

This week, we're discussing our favorite news ever: People who would rather read a book than work out (guilty) are smarter (yay!!). Plus, we're sharing our advice for sending professional emails (as well as our embarrassing mishaps). 

This week, we're discussing our least-favorite money-saving tips, as well as a few we think are okay-ish. Also, our brother site (theessentialbs.com) launched this week, so check them out!