Financial Karma | Money Management | Mindfulness | Mindset | Holistic Financial Advice |

I’m taking back my power as far as what I can accomplish. It’s taken me a really long time to get here, but I’m here now and ready to keep my eye on the prize. My prize is my physical health.  With that comes every other aspect of my life. I’ve picked lots of significant days to stop smoking before. I’ve now made the commitment to take by my power with my health. I’m picking my day to honor my children’s birthday’s. In my case, I want to be able to visualize having the health and wellness that I want. I want to be able to reclaim my health so I can understand how I feel in my own skin. In there here and now, I want to have success.I want to focus on what’s going on right now. Things won’t always go as planned, but that is life.I’ve made a commitment to the day, but I’ve also made a commitment to myself. Come along with my journey!

As you know, I’m on a journey of self-reflection and discovering where I am going on my business journey. I’ve come to realize at my age, is that I’ve spent a lot of my life being in conflict with what I really wanted to do vs. what others wanted me to do. I’m now beginning to embrace being a rebel, and I don’t mind it at all.   I’ve been doing my research on Deb time, and I’ve broken it down into 3 parts.   Going out into the world to see what is out there and available and science-based. I want to look for people that are smart, honest and well qualified to lend a viewpoint to my life. Getting involved with other people one on one and in groups. I am so happy to be in so many groups that help meet this need in me. It’s not only fun, but it’s empowering. To be around others who want to make a difference and walk with them. The “me” piece - how am I feeling in my own body? My mediation coach works with me on much of this. I’m working on something so basic as walking and my posture.      I am using Dr. Aviva Romm’s book The Adrenal Thyroid Revolution and I am learning so much before I embark on this 28-day journey. I was so floored after I had conversations with my Dr. and I felt like I knew more about thyroid issues than he did. This encounter left me feeling very icky about the entire medical profession. I have to trust my body and trust how I am feeling in my body.    Emotions are a part of our physical health, and how I feel about myself plays a huge role in my health. That is a huge part of this journey and I’m getting ready to take back my power.   In the next episode, I’ll be talking about picking the day to start the journey and plan for success.     Resources:   Alex Jamieson’s podcast interview with Christiane Northrup

In the last episode, I told you about my new journey of reflection that I was embarking on based on the Thyroid Adrenal Revolution Book by Dr. Aviva Rom.. Today, I want to share with you the catalyst for my journey.   I wanted to go inward to get my physical health where it needs to be. I have suffered with a lack of energy, and I’m still in prep mode for this journey.   I have a beach house that I rent out all summer. I was staying there for a bit, and a few days into my trip, I noticed I started getting really itchy. I wasn’t sure if I was dealing with sand fleas or something else. The rash kept getting worse and I went to a party with some friends and started talking with some friends about it. Needless to say, we realized I was dealing with bed bugs.   I chose to get a heat treatment on the house, rather than treat it with chemicals. After this situation, I went into a funk and got depressed. Felt really violated.It’s taken close to a month to get over my symptoms. I was stressed out so much that I ended up breaking out in hives.   I took some benadryl when I got home and slept for 15 hours. This was the catalyst that told me it was time to take charge of my body and my health. I believe that if you can figure out your physical wellness, you can also figure out your financial wellness.   I’ve ridden the financial roller coaster in the last several years. The one remnant I salvaged was my beach house. I hit rock bottom and I want you to learn from my mistakes so you don’t have to go there.   Tomorrow we’re talking about the research needed to get ready to make the changes you need to make.  

I’m in the process of figuring out my business and how I want to support myself, which is a big part of financial karma.    The path I’m currently following is based on The Thyroid Adrenal Revolution by Dr. Aviva Rom. I’ll be sharing more about that in future episodes.    The most important step to any change is actually being willing. Someone told me to be a leader, not a savior, and sometimes I tend to want to be a savior.    Tomorrow, I am going to share the catalyst for the change I am talking about - Bed Bugs! Ugh!

This episode wraps up my daily FB Live challenge. I forced myself to do this during my busiest time of the year (tax season)! I'm glad I made it. I've learned some lessons from doing this exercise. I've learned things about myself as well. 

One way or another we all take from others - from our families, from the government or others that we aren’t even aware of. So now we are in a place where there’s a lot of finger pointing that goes on, and it’s created an environment where people are at odds with each other. Blaming others and pointing fingers at those that we perceive to be taking from the system isn’t helpful. Actually, it makes us a hypocrite because in many ways, we are also getting welfare.   In truth, we all should be taking and giving in our society. We all need each other and no one is truly self-sufficient. This giving and taking is what makes us part of a community and makes us feel like part of the tribe. No everyone living in poverty is taking welfare. Many are struggling to be self-sufficient and living at a very low standard. People that are struggling don’t need the stigma of “taking welfare” to traumatize them because it is counterproductive to everything they are attempting to do.    Since the Industrial Revolution in this country, we have been creating problems that we now need to solve. Problems like climate change, population shifts, work force changes, and many more. It takes an entire society to try and solve these problems, but we all have to work together. Open your mind to a different approach to things and see where that gets you. it will improve your growth mindset and how you view the world.

Today I wanted to talk to you about the war within yourself, vs. the diplomatic solution of solving your problems. It’s the war within our own bodies. I quit smoking last year and I have gained some unwanted weight. I need to be kind to myself while I try to figure out what the solution for my body is. I can’t go to war with myself and go on a drastic diet and hit the gym 8 hours a day. Our bodies need a lot of things. We need sensuality and play as a regular part of our lives. Having diplomacy allows you to be minimally at odds with yourself internally. It allows you to work through issues with flow and ease.Maybe you don’t have to go grind it out at the gym, but rather you join a dance class. Be kind and use diplomacy with yourself - don’t wage a war against yourself!

I’m in New York in the middle of tax season. I’m here for an event that I don’t really have time for, but I knew I would benefit from coming. So even though I don’t have time for it, and even though I am in the middle of tax season, I knew I had to come anyway. I could plan for it to have minimal impact, so I though “how can I not go?”. What are you saying "no" to that you would be better off taking advantage of!

Do you know what your gifts are? Are you leveraging them effectively? Today we are talking about gifts, and when I say gifts, I mean the things that you feel like you have a natural knack for and you excel at.   Using your gifts gives you an opportunity to show up for yourself. This is a growth mindset and it allows you to fully step into your power.   Many times your gifts may marry to opposing qualities. Then they become complementary skills.   The world needs you to show up with your skills! Collectively, there are opportunities that you can take advantage of by showing up!      

Have you ever questioned yourself? Do you think you should do something just because you can? That’s what we’re talking about today. There are many things we are allowed to do because they are not illegal, but does that mean it’s ok to do it? We do so many things because we can get away with it. But that doesn’t mean that it’s what is best for us. I went through one of these tough times when I was going through a divorce. I was in a bind with circumstances, but I also had a moral obligation. I probably could have declared bankruptcy legally, but would it have been the right thing for me to do. I needed to think about the long game and not make decisions only to get out of a jam. Just because you can make certain decisions, also think about the long term consequences. We can learn valuable lessons when bad things happen and we make good choices around it.  

Many times we do things that do not align with our greater purpose. Sometimes we are closed off to the things that would make our lives what we really want them to be. In fact, our best lives are getting sacrificed on the altar of our current lives.   I’m a people pleaser, so this one has been a really hard thing for me. I get trapped in my daily life and it robs me of the future I desire. Many times we just need better boundaries to hold our dreams in a sacred space and not let anything interfere with it. It’s almost like we need selective hearing, so we can turn off the noise and only focus on what contributes to the life we really want.   Sometimes I am stubborn and I have to hit rock bottom before I take the steps to hold my dreams in the highest regard. Friends and likeminded community can help keep us on track. Sometimes we can be misguided and let this behavior overtake our lives.    It takes courage to hit rock bottom and get back on the horse every day. Being brave instead of being misguided means you accept the fact that this journey may be messy and bumpy sometimes. It’s brave to be honest with yourself in your current state. It makes you grow up!    See your life as it really is and you can improve your situation faster than you ever imagined. When you reframe misguided to brave, it will make a difference in your life.  

I don’t want to be so serious all the time. I had to practice laughter in order to make fun of myself and my own foibles. The best way to laugh is with friends, but you can also laugh when you are alone. I want you to begin using your money to trade it for a pleasing experience - whether it’s time with friends or some other amazing experience, rather than buying things. Use laughter as the best medicine for anything that ails you!

It’s important for us to continue to work on the dreams that we have in our lives. Sometimes it takes awhile to get there and it seems like this particular journey has taken me awhile. I heard something yesterday that made me appreciate exactly where I am. Angela Duckworth wrote the book about GRIT and she decided to pursue the MacArthur grant for $100 million dollars. They came up with an audacious idea and it’s 3 parts - health, education, and saving! What a combination to put together, but the reason they did is because they put forth the idea that these 3 areas need major change in our society in order to have a lasting impact.  Savings are important for your well being and life experience. I am so glad this was reinforced by these very smart ladies! Can you imagine if they were able to get $100 million in order to do this work in our world? They didn’t get the grant, but that’s not stopping them from doing the work anyway! The more you save, the more self-sufficient you can be throughout the rest of your life. But also, it changes your relationship with money when you have savings. My goal is to share the message of financial literacy to as many people as possible.

My book group reads books that help us in our lives. Even though I am an accountant, I am also a creative person. We are currently reading a book about money and it’s about being creative with our money.   Too often we get boxed in with thoughts and plans and almost become paralyzed and unable to move forward and do all the things in life that we want to.   I am a believer in having faith that good things will happen to you. But I am not one to sit back and say “Oh well, God will provide” and you don’t have to worry about things. I would rather think of it as God supports me in my endeavors to provide for myself and take care of myself.    We all have temporary scarcities in our lives, but the important thing is what we do after that temporary scarcity.   The reason for time is so that everything doesn’t happen at once. Given enough time, the Universe will give you what you need. The Universe provides a framework for all good things. It takes the chaos of life out of play and allows things to evolve the way they are supposed to.The Universe provides openings for your next step. Anything is possible when you believe the Universe will give you a hand.    When we are open to the Universe, it will bring the best to us and it will allow us to grow.  

There are 3 things that I’m sharing about play today. It’s hard to justify it as an adult and it seems like we just don’t stop working to play very often. This is one area where we have to re-frame our thinking to make a change in how we prioritize play and make it a regular part of our lives.   Giggle - make it a point to get together with people that you know will make you giggle. Play dress up - dress however you feel like it to go to work and wear whatever makes you feel playful. Swing on a swing set - it’s not just for kids! Make it a point to stop every time you see a park with an adult swing. There’s something about the reckless abandon of going back and forth and high that just takes you to a different place mentally.  

Do you ever hear people make blanket statements about situations or issues that you know aren’t factually accurate? It’s honestly hard for me to hear. Why does judging other people cost?   It’s a distraction. It takes your focus off what is most important in your life. It promotes a fixed mindset. You can’t be open to other viewpoints when you have a fixed mindset. It causes you to be disconnected from people.   There are so many ways we can contribute to a positive society in our corner of the world. We don’t have time to be sidelined and distracted by judging others.

There was a time in my life that I thought I had the security that money brings.I didn’t truly understand that it wasn’t bringing me happiness until I was in a situation where I had much less money.   I got some honest feedback from someone today. I had a very visceral reaction to the words he spoke. He was trying to tell me to pay attention to my body alignment and breathing. Words like this are hard for all of us to hear, but words are powerful. So I wanted to share with you 3 reactions to the power of words in our lives:   Change is good. Words can help us build community. Fear really will not kill you.   Think about your words before your speak and also try to be discerning about the words you are hearing.

I just feel lighter! Well, let me back up and explain. Sometimes our family relationships get a little bit out of whack. We may have demands placed on us that are unreasonable, and we also may find that our expectations are constantly not being met by family members. It’s been true for me, that when I release emotional weight, my physical weight gets in balance. I think so many of us got through life with more of an “emotional weight problem” than we do a physical weight problem and those go hand in hand.    Releasing yourself from the emotional bondage of past mistakes and problematic family relationships can provide freedom for you emotionally, and that’s what makes me feel lighter! Emotional baggage can impact your physical weight and also your money. There are so many emotions tied up in both of those aspects of our lives. The scarcity mentality can overtake your financial life and it’s important for you to work through your issues with family relationships and with your money.   I encourage you to embrace abundance in all of your relationships! This will take your relationship with money and family in the right direction, and you won’t be weighed down with the negative aspects that can be harmful to you!

I don’t know how many of you listen to the Story Corp podcast on NPR, but I just found out that they now had an app. So, I uploaded it and went to visit my parents. They are aging and they can’t do quite as much as they used to. So this app presented a great opportunity for me to document some of the stories of their lives in their own voices. So the thing that is different about this app compared to other voice recording apps is that it will save your audio recording in the Library of Congress. So, it’s a great way to preserve the stories, that will forever be a part of the Library of Congress. Join me tomorrow as I am re-thinking my family relationships!

Last year I did my will, and I had expressed my desire to be cremated. It’s a really kind thing you can do for your loved ones to put a plan in place for your departure. In the course of that process, I found out about the Maryland Anatomy Board. When you die and seek their assistance, they basically take the body and use it for medical training. It’s done in a respectful way. After this, they cremate you and return your remains to your family.   The Karma is that you get to help people with medical training and the financial part of it is that you don’t end up having to pay for your final expenses.  It’s better to have these arrangements made long before you need it. 

Risk and failure are ingredients in having a more balanced approach to living. If we are living in reality, risk and failure will be a steady visitor in your life!   By living through trauma, you can actually increase your resilience. The point is that you have to be willing to take a risk. It’s hard putting yourself out there at first, but the more you do it, the more your comfort zone expands. You have to be kind enough to yourself to allow baby steps.   News flash, you will experience failure, whether you decide to take a risk or not. So if it’s inevitable anyway, you may as well plan on taking risks that guide your ship in the direction you want to go. Then when you fail, you will still be moving closer to your ideal life.   You have no idea how much you will benefit fro a failure until you get to the other side of it. The fear of fear is actually harder than the actual failure you will go through!    

I was vaccinated with a Victrola needle! I’ve always been very verbal and very chatty!  I’ve gone through my entire life having a sense that I was never being listened to. I wasn’t feeling validated. It took me a long time to realize that this feeling was coming from me internally, and not from other people. When you grow up this way, you end up presenting yourself in a way that basically says “I’m not worth listening to.” The most important lesson you can learn is that there is work for you to do on yourself to step into a place where you can be heard and validated.   I was not a good listener at a point in my life. I wanted to show up as my best self, but I couldn’t because I wasn’t a good listener. I still have times where I am not a good listener. Years ago when I decided to do the work I needed to on myself, I went to a 12 step program. I learned to listen because I had no choice.   4 Things to Remember About Listening:   It gives you a chance to practice patience. It teaches you about compassion. It gives you the ability to compromise. It will help you learn.

Today we are talking about the Grit habit. I love Angela Duckworth’s test to see how gritty you are! You can score from 1-5, and see where you rank on the scale.   I’ve realized over time that grit is sort of a learned behavior. I am an example of that. I have had to step up my grit over the last several years because I wanted to be happy.    3 things come to mind to make you more gritty:   The never give up habit - I have to tell myself this almost every day at some point. It’s a repeated habit that is now ingrained in me. Make friends - put yourself out there in your community. I have friends in unusual places and they enrich my life and make it more full. Self-care is important.

In this series of FB live posts, I’m sharing some things that are coming up with me on a day to day basis. I had an experience with my local CVS pharmacy that resembled bullying. I’ve learned from being bullied that it is not ok, and I also determine that I need to take my power back anytime this happens and I will not be a victim.    My advice is never to cry in front of men because we don’t want to be perceived as being weak. Many times we just need to feel heard, and when we are not being heard, our feelings get hurt.   Sometimes others have a different agenda than we do. You may not associate bullying with your finances. In a patriarchic society, that’s one of the main control mechanisms that is used against women.    Listen to this episode as we talk about how money can be used against us in a power play. This is bullying and it’s not ok.

In this day and age, I think we all use technology way more than we ever imagined. You don’t have to do everything and you don’t have to let the technology drive you crazy! Today I wanted to give you 6 apps and tools you can use to make your life easier. Tech overwhelm can become a thing of the past. It’s more important to work on yourself and then use technology to support the aspects of your life that you are improving!   For productivity - To-Doist For social media - I only focus on FB and Twitter and I use Meet Edgar For Record Keeping - Less Accounting - a creative recommended it to me! For Creativity - Canva and Word Swag  For Concentration - Focus at Will  For Scheduling - eventually I will be moving to an app besides my Google Calendar  

In today’s episode, Deb shares her practice of doing walking meditations. The reason that Deb does a walking meditation is so that she can keep her practice of meditation. As busy as life is, Deb knows herself well enough that she must set up herself for success and make things easy to incorporate into her schedule, or else she will simply not do it. Deb gives a shout out to her meditation coach, Joe Somodi of www.2020yoga.com for helping her achieve her daily meditation practice.   Deb shares how she conducts her walking meditation, and how she made this practice work for her.

Join your Financial Karma Coach, Deb Williams as she challenges herself to a daily FB live video, while muddling through tax season! For the next couple of weeks, Deb is choosing a word each day to focus on and today's word is GRATITUDE! So many people have praised how a daily gratitude practice can change your life and your outlook. Today Deb shares her gratitude and also shares a moment where she failed to follow through on her part of the bargain. Don't let your slip ups keep you from getting on board. Let's focus on gratitude today!

Deb Williams, CPA and Financial Coach, is on a mission to educate women about finance and money mindset. (Although she does love having the support of men as well!) Listen in today and find out how you can create a budget, easily and without stress and why it's so important for you to do that.   In the first part of today's show, Deb tells a touching story about her aging mom, who has Alzheimer's. It's a story demonstrating the use of an alternative approach, which, according to Deb, is essential in today's world. She explains that being prepared to allow for alternative ways of doing things demonstrates a growth mindset, rather than a fixed one, which is helpful for you to rewire your brain. She also expresses her view that the current President doesn't know the skills of diplomacy and inclusiveness, or of running a Federal Government- which is different to running a private company and until she knows that he's capable of pulling it together, she intends speaking out when necessary. She encourages you to speak out too but she reminds you to do this with facts and research- not as a reaction to an event.   In the second part of today's show, Deb talks about the ins and outs of budgeting and why it's essential for you to get the basics in line. She explains that it's important for you to plan things out, in order to feel a measure of control over your life now and in the future. Listen in today and discover the importance of having a solid budget and financial plan and find out how to go about the often daunting task of planning your budget, with ease.   Today, Deb discusses:   How you can gain financially through taking a fresh perspective when listening to people with different viewpoints. The importance of knowing the difference between someone's viewpoint and the facts. Why it's necessary to be clear about where you're going in life. That preparing a budget is not complicated- it's do-able if you can add and subtract. The idea of having a budget as part of a roadmap to your plans. If you don't know where you are at now, you're not going to be able to plan your future. Her own success, due to believing in herself, her talents and skills- and putting them to good use. Setting aside the time to budget. Rewarding yourself- a little trick to get things done. Keeping your mindset positive while preparing your budget. An app to help you focus.   Links:   Deb's Facebook Group: Financial Karma Deb's website: www.financialkarmacoach.com     Resources:   Deb recommends: www.focusatwill.com    

Today, Deb focuses on the new year and what it could bring. She records her first show for this year while walking through the streets of Washington DC and urges you to think in terms of becoming more active with what you can control, outside in the world.   Deb talks about two things on today's show. First, a small thing that you can do to take responsibility, have more say and get your voice heard out there. Second, she offers you an action plan for your finances, by giving you 2 assignments to help you budget more effectively. Listen in and learn from Deb how you can increase your financial health and also take a more active role in decisions affecting the nation. Today, Deb talks about:   The various people being assembled due to a new administration and how you can take more responsibility in that area. How the decisions made by the people in administration will affect you. Deb urges you to call your political representative and tell them how you feel about the people being appointed to cabinet. She explains exactly how you can contact your political representative. The 2 assignments, which go hand in hand. How you can learn to value yourself without regard to money. Changing your habits being a huge part of changing the framework of your life. How to contact US Capital.   Links:   Deb's website: www.financialkarmacoach.com (For The Money Quiz)   Deb's email:    debcpa9@gmail.com   Deb's Facebook Group: Financial Karma   To call US Capital: 202 225 3121  

Are you held back in business by negative ideas? Would you like to learn how to really think big? Then join Deb Williams, CPA, Financial Coach and host of Financial Karma, on today's show as she talks to her guest, Paula Hope, about her first book, Stop The Saboteurs and also about how you can master your thoughts and create the revenue you deserve.   Paula, a 'magnificent manifestor' with more than thirty years of experience in the field, describes herself as a person who helps business professionals create the revenue they deserve. She speaks, writes, trains and coaches business professionals to conquer their saboteurs, by growing their networking, referral, building and sales process skills. She's an expert on referral marketing and strategic networking and owns a business called Booked Solid. She applies her decades of experience in offering solutions to self-destructive fear and self-limiting behaviours that can impede your success.    Join Deb and Paula today, as they talk about:   Paula's background and how she got to where she is today. Sales not generally being respected as a career. How your revenue as a business owner is tied into how you feel about yourself in that role. Her book being a business development book rather than a self-help book. Paula's concept of negative thoughts as 'saboteurs'. What makes new small business owners vulnerable to negative ideas. The self-assessment process in Paula's book. Honoring what you do in business. Busting myths about money. Feeling the joy and thinking big- to trick your brain and change your mindset. How your self-esteem affects your value in your business. How we tend to underestimate our talents, because they make things seem easy. You don't have to be your history. Watch your words- they could reflect a belief that you don't even hold. People think in symbols. Paula's favourite strategies for success.     Links:   Paula's email: paula@bookedsolid.ca   Paula on Linkedin: Paula Hope   Deb's website: www.finanialkarmacoach.com     Deb's Facebook group: Financial Karma Deb's email: debcpa9@gmail.com    

Are you looking for a new and effective way to market your business? Or would you welcome some business coaching from experienced professionals? If so, listen in and learn from today's episode of Financial Karma, an experimental episode, recorded at the DC Podfest, where podcasters come together to celebrate and share what they do and to learn from each other.    Today's guest and co-host is Shawn Rubbin. Shawn and host, Deb Williams, have gone from being baseball moms together, twenty years ago, to becoming best friends and earnest supporters of each other in business.  Both are big believers in karma. They have learned that the challenges of the past are the very things that are the indicators of today's success. Shawn has been a creative professional for more than thirty years. She has gone from print to web, with everything in between. She's an internet interpreter, a digital trouble shooter and a creative disrupter. She is currently working on a project to help promote podcasting. These are short promo videos of animated audio. Shawn believes that this style will help podcasters to get their word seen. Join Deb and Shawn today as they go about  Disrupting Business As Usual.   Today, Deb and Shawn talk about:   Why Deb will make a great financial coach- what she offers and how it works, with the goal to explore your money habits and mindset. Deb tells a fabulous, cautionary tale to illustrate her karma tip for today. Deb explains why people pleasing does not work in business. Deb talks about the battle between fear and faith, currently going on in America. Deb's money quiz on her website, which will help you identify your money archetype. The value of Shawn doing a podcast as a marketing tool. How iTunes exists simply as a catalog! The value of podcasts as a medium of expression. How podcasts can elevate the host to a more 'known' or credible status. That podcasts have the quality of feeling like a radio show, but have the benefit of being able to replay, if necessary. Some things Shawn learned at the conference about the money making aspect of being an entrepreneur and also about dealing with fear through podcasts as a medium. Some changes Shawn will implement as a result of what she learned at the Podfest-and also some things she needs to 'unlearn'. The value of sharing one's vulnerability on a podcast. How the podcast community can breed generosity, which brings good karma!   Links:   Deb's website: www.financialkarmacoach.com   Deb's Facebook group: Financial Karma   Shawn's websites: www.disruptivebydesign.net                              shawn@disruptivebydesign.net   The recording of today's episode was done for free at the podfest, by Justin and Matt, of the group New Media Studio from Pensylvania, to test their audio services. To contact them, go to: www.newmediarecordingstudios.com    

It’s the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” so why is it that so many of us feel overwhelmed? With decorations to hang, gifts to buy, parties to attend, and families to appease, life tends to take on a hectic pace as the year draws to a close. The temptation would be to run far, far away from the chaos of this last year, and avoid financial planning, organization, and new habit forming until the new year. It seems like there is too much else to do.    But now is the best time to Simplify.    In this week’s episode of “Financial Karma,” Deb shares how her own view of the Holiday Season has changed, and shares some big news about her new business as a Financial Coach. Gain some insight into your own celebrations this season as Deb interviews Janie Downey-Maxwell: writer, artists, musician, coach, publisher, and blogger. Janie runs the show at https://organizationalhabits.com/ and she has some incredible wisdom to share for your Holiday Season. Deb and Janie dive into the life-encompassing world of Organizational Habits, and how a deep look at your current habits, goals, and emotions around the holidays can be more revealing about your Financial Karma in 2017 than you might realize.    This episode is packed with everything you need to get organized this Holiday Season! Hear how Deb took a pause to pursue a personal dream and begin her business consulting with women on financial literacy and sustainability.  Get the steps you need to come up with a financial plan for 2017 before the year begins.  Learn ways to make the Holidays about your family, and NOT about the money you spend.  Embrace the word Simplicity, and hear from Janie about Organizational Zen  Can you be both creative and organized? Janie shows you how! Figure out your habits or set some up as you plan your Holidays  See how spending time on your personal habits and dreams are an example for your children, and not a selfish time-waster.  Learn how to tackle Holiday To-Dos without getting overwhelmed.  Discover how organization spills over into your personal wealth, both financial and emotional.  See how Deb and Janie embrace Joy, and make choices in pursuit of that during the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.  Join the Financial Karma community on Facebook!

In this episode, Deb tells the story of Kate and the very short friendship that has evolved between them, under the most unique circumstances. Money was in the entire story, Deb recalls, just as money is often involved in all of our life stories.    Yet the money we experience in our lives – the money we earn, save, give, or take, really none of it has anything to do with our value as humans. All the money that you own could end up owning you instead.  Get all the earthly benefits that you can get from money, yet we need to detach ourselves from it so we can attend to our social relationships, and live a peaceful and prosperous life.   Deb’s guest is Beca Lewis, a Certified Financial Planner and author of 5 non-fiction books. She has also published short stories and a full-length fiction novel. All her books are found on Amazon. She writes the Shift Ezine, The Truth 4 Today email series, The Daily Nudge email series and the meditation series called Grace Notes. She has Master’s in Dance and ended up working for 20 years in a  large financial firm as a Certified Financial Planner. She is a mother, grandmother, and stepmother.   Show Notes   Deb and Beca met at a podcasting  event  Share experiences with making shifts in your life How to benefit from money yet be “detached” from it. The Shift System works for anyone willing to choose and work it Walk together toward the infinite      Resources:   www.theshiftcenter.com/ www.becalewis.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/265226480530796/ beca@becalewis.com  

Dan was told that everything he touched turned into gold. However, 13 of his businesses had already failed before he got the first opportunity to succeed. Deb gets a glimpse into the gleaming life of the multi-millionaire Dan Lok, who once worked as a grocery bagger in a supermarket in Canada at the age of 16. He and his family had migrated to Canada when he was only 14 years old. He had a tough cultural adjustment and was frequently bullied, and he eventually dropped out of college. Now, he inspires people to build their dreams as entrepreneurs. He has received awards as the Best Online Retailer of 2012.  He has now authored 13 books, sold multiple businesses, is a martial arts expert, and a highly successful internet marketer, serial entrepreneur, and radio/TV personality.  He gives us all the details of his story in this episode.   You can read the full show notes and access all the links and resources at www.financialkarmacoach.com  

  This week’s guest is Estate Planning Attorney, Michael “Misha” Gill, owner of  Speedwell Law.  He had worked on my own Last Will and financial/estate plan. Misha prefers to use the phrase “personal legal affairs” to refer to his practice rather than estate planning or succession planning. He is a 2013 graduate of the Penn State Dickinson School of Law.  Show Notes: What is estate planning? Why estate planning is important  What is a probate? A non-probate property? Why is a trust and will necessary?  The 3 people you trust most in life as your fiduciary (trustee) Future events that could affect your finances  What a “living will” is A trustee is different from a beneficiary The advantage of putting together a will  or trust to your child. You can change a living trust during your lifetime Quotable Quotes: I charge a “flat fee.” You’ll know how much you will spend. You want your estate planning attorney to outlive you.   When family and money collide, problems occur.  Estate planning is an act of care and compassion towards the ones you love!   Misha’s contact details:  (703) 520-2142 or mgill@obedlaw.com. You can access all the links and resources at www.financialkarmacoach.com  

Here’s a recap of my first season of Financial Karma Podcast.  Here are highlights of what I learned from launching my podcast this summer. Money is involved in everything we do. We should be prepared to make informed decisions and we can change ourselves with awareness, intention, and accountability.  Highlights Episode  0:  I talk about how I started and why I’m a financial karma coach. I was interviewed by Lisa Vogt.   Episode 1:  Splash into Summer, with Nick Snapp. Nick discussed how he got into podcasting, what got him out of the corporate world, how he got into productivity, set routines, and bring up productivity to people.    Episode 2:  A Delicious Summer with Alexandra Jamieson. She discusses how to do the body scan, listening to your body’s messages. What it means to observe and listen to every part of your body. She discusses the activities best for summer.    Episode 3:  Women with Wanderlust with Melissa Jones. Melissa helps people to add polish to their personal and business branding with her design. She lives for travel, new challenges, and adventures and recommends traveling to everyone who can afford it.    Episode 4:  Summer Tips for Mannafest Living with Sarah Mastriani-Levi.  She discusses naturopathic medicine and holistic bodywork. She has had extensive clinical practice and is a certified practitioner in the following fields: advanced reflexology, shiatsu, Swedish massage, manual lymph drainage, iridology, aromatherapy and herbology. She  also discusses stuff such as:  How we create a plastic life, It’s not what happens to you, but how you handle what happens to you,  How to find your “allowable rebellions”,  The biggest factor that contributes to Sarah’s success as a coach,  Why fear has never stopped or defined Sarah,  Why you need to be curious, Different challenges with the lifestyle choices we make,  How she intentionally makes time to connect with her children,  Why being outside should be a priority in your life,  How to make positive changes in your life to get what you need, Why dieting is something you should avoid,  and Why Sarah loves her work and how she helps people.    Episode 5. Back to School (and more) with Bruce Langford. Mindfulness needs to go with every student’s return to school.  Does mindfulness apply to your finances? YES! Most of our money decisions—good or bad—are affected by our subconscious mind. Through his work as a mindfulness coach, Bruce helps his clients with the many problems of life with gentleness, candor, and respect. His passion is to help people become more calm, focused, and happy.    Episode 6. The Girls of Summer with Amy Lopez.  Lying is wrong  and  can lead to all sorts of problems. There are so many negative character traits that we unknowingly cultivate when we choose to be untruthful. So, be the best YOU that you can be, and tell the truth.  Amy Lopez, works with 3rd-8th grade girls, helping build confidence in the next generation of women.     Episode 7:  Change of Seasons and Meditation with Joe Somodi. Joe is a professional yoga teacher and certified life coach who helps people incorporate a daily practice of meditation into their lives.  He talks about attaching to the good and detaching from the bad.    Episode 8:  End of Summer Wrap-Up with Deb Williams.   In this podcast, I recommend Camp Good Life Project to connect with people to enhance your business and your life. Having these types of connections allows you to have support and input from others in your business. Knowing you have connections that have your back, it is such a relief.   Having connected relationships is a wealth all its own. Focusing on this aspect of wealth first will allow you to manifest other types of wealth. There is more to wealth than the almighty dollar. Running your business from a spirited place will allow you to grow in innumerable ways.    Episode 9:  Moving on to the Fall and Deb Williams Coaching Practice.  The  complexity of the brain, our neurons, and the coping strategies that we turn to is discussed in this episode. In addition, why I changed my point of view and the benefits it has brought me,  Better overall health,   How I approach decision-making (it starts with a deep breath!),   You can’t control what other people do; you can only control what YOU do.,  Gratitude---why it’s amazing Connection with people, How I blended the work I love Group and one-on-one work Giving people a safe place,  How I help you gain insights, and The 8 Money Personalities: Which ones describe you best?     Episode 10:  Winging It, Owning It and Coming Out Ahead.  How to merge your finances with your psyche is discussed here.  I’ve got my CPA and my Tax clients too, so there’s a lot going on. I’m a bit overwhelmed at the moment and you can see why!   Karma Tip: The word is conviction. It’s being sure what you say and believe is true, and that can even be true to you. My conviction is to work on my self-care and reducing my stress level. Having an open mind causes people to hear each other out, and it can actually cause you to change your convictions. Thinking this way can bring about a more peaceful world. 

Welcome to Financial Karma! Today we’re talking about merging your finances with your psyche’!    I’m working on my long term business plan to do a full blown coaching program. I’ve got my CPA and my Tax clients too, so there’s a lot going on. I’m a bit overwhelmed at the moment and you can see why! You can join my Facebook group to get more information.   Karma Tip: The word is conviction. It’s being sure what you say and believe is true, and that can even be true to you. My conviction is to work on my self-care and reducing my stress level. Having an open mind causes people to hear each other out, and it can actually cause you to change your convictions. Thinking this way can bring about a more peaceful world.    Listen to the show as I share my system for getting your money under control.   I have to thank the following people for their help and support during season 1 of the podcast:     Ever Better (Lisa Vogt) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ever-better-podcast/id1067620648?mt=2 The Make It Snappy Productivity Show (Nick Snapp) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/make-it-snappy-productivity/id1070551695?mt=2 Simple Change (Sarah Mastriani-Levi) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/simple-change/id1087170464?mt=2 The Biz Chix Podcast (Natalie Eckdahl) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-chix-podcast-female-entrepreneurs/id811105481?mt=2 Mindfulness Mode (Bruce Langford) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mindfulness-mode-interviews/id1032063236?mt=2 Shift the Story (Beca Lewis) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-the-story-podcast/id1008859101?mt=2 The Crave Cast (Alex Jamieson) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/crave-cast-women-food-desire/id925989500?mt=2   Here's what I'm listening to! These are the shows I love!   Actual Innocence (Brooke Gittings) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/actual-innocence/id1102237078?mt=2 Mom's with Dreams Show (Erica Gordon) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/moms-with-dreams-show/id996720981?mt=2 Hidden Brain - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hidden-brain/id1028908750?mt=2 Still Growing-A Weekly Gardening Podcast (Jennifer Ebeling) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/still-growing...a-weekly-gardening/id659709301?mt=2 Heartsong Fit (Vickie Maris) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/heartsong-fit-vickie-maris/id842345162?mt=2 Sound Bites (Melissa Joy Dobbins) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-bites-melissa-joy-dobbins/id982530565?mt=2 The Productive Woman (Laura McClellan) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/productive-woman-productivity/id895902493?mt=2 Biz Women Rock (Katie Krimitsos) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-women-rock!-katie-krimitsos/id818183720?mt=2 Betty in the Sky with a Suitcase (Flight Attendant Betty) - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/betty-in-sky-suitcase!/id79898010?mt=2  

Welcome! Today we’re discussing several things. We begin with the complexity of the brain, our neurons, and the coping strategies that we turn to. That’s not all for today’s episode; there’s more! What you’ll hear in this episode: Why I changed my point of view and the benefits it has brought me Better overall health Mindfulness More in tune with my “gut” How I approach decision-making (it starts with a deep breath!) “Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy?” “You can’t control what other people do; you can only control what YOU do.” Gratitude---why it’s amazing Connection with people and a good attitude with my new habit Why I’m a financial karma coach How I blended the work I love Group and one-on-one work Giving people a safe place How I help you gain insights The 8 Money Personalities: Which ones describe you best?   www.financialkarmacoach.com

This past week, I participated in a group coaching session dealing with connection. After that conversation, I also had some personal experiences that validated the information from the coaching session.   I recently went to Camp Good Life Project. I’ve been 3 years in a row and I highly recommend that you go if you ever have the opportunity. Connecting with people in this way is a great way to enhance your business and your life. Having these types of connections allows you to have support and input from others in your business. Knowing you have connections that have your back, it is such a relief.   Having connected relationships is a wealth all it’s own. Focusing on this aspect of wealth first will allow you to manifest other types of wealth. There is more to wealth than the almighty dollar. Running your business from a spirited place will allow you to grow in innumerable ways.   Our first season is coming to an end and I can’t believe it. I’m a procrastinator and I have creative avoidance! This causes me to put things off and “do it tomorrow”. I’m trying to understand why I engage in this behavior over and over again. This show has been a huge accomplishment for me, so instead of worrying about all the ways I failed to meet a deadline or didn’t do something right, I have to give myself credit for just getting it done!   I’m here for the long view. I’m not worried about making quick cash. I couldn’t care less how many downloads I have right now. I’m here for a bigger purpose. This podcasting work is tough. It’s not for the faint of heart. This is a hard passion project because everything feels new and unfamiliar - that makes it hard.     I think the first season went well. I’ve learned a lot and can’t wait to share more next season.   I’ll be doing some bonus mini-episodes in the coming weeks! Join me for the journey!   In case you need some help with your money mindset, I do one on one coaching in that area. So if you need help, please let me know.   Send any feedback to me at: debcpa9@gmail.com  

The word detachment has been a recurring thought for me lately. It’s an intriguing concept: detaching FROM something. I picture a balloon floating away when I think of the word. There are many benefits of detaching from difficult situations in life. Attaching and detaching play perfectly into our guest and our conversation for today’s show. My guest today is Joe Somodi, a professional yoga teacher and certified life coach who helps people incorporate a daily practice of meditation into their lives. I met Joe when we both took an online course called Revolution University in 2014. Joe’s life story is an interesting one as he left “the good life” behind and pursued his dreams. Let’s chat with Joe! You can read the full show notes and access all the links and resources at www.financialkarmacoach.com

We begin today talking about lying. We all know that lying is wrong, and how it can lead to all sorts of problems. Have you ever stopped to think about all the harm caused by lying—both to others AND to us? There are so many negative character traits that we unknowingly cultivate when we choose to be untruthful. So, be the best YOU that you can be, and tell the truth. Let’s get to the show. My guest today is Amy Lopez, who works with Girls on the Run in Montgomery County, Maryland. Amy works with 3rd-8th grade girls, helping build confidence in the next generation of women. GOTR has been featured in many media outlets and has garnered national exposure for its positive work with youth. As I’ve gotten to know Amy, I’ve been impressed with her positive energy, fun-loving personality, and smiles. Let me introduce you to Amy!  

Have you noticed that summer is drawing to a close? Has it hit you yet that “back-to-school” is a fast-approaching reality? Whether you’re a parent or a student, our discussion today will apply to you. Besides backpacks, notebooks, pencils and such, there is another item that needs to go with every student’s return to school: MINDFULNESS. Does mindfulness apply to your finances? YES! Most of our money decisions—good or bad—are affected by our subconscious mind. Let’s bring these thoughts together and meet our guest. Bruce Langford has been an expert in the field of bullying prevention since 2003. Through his work as a mindfulness coach, Bruce helps his clients with the many problems of life with gentleness, candor, and respect. His passion is to help people become more calm, focused, and happy. Don’t we all want to feel more grounded, peaceful, content, and relaxed? Bruce can help! He lives in Canada with his wife and son, and hosts the podcast, Mindfulness Mode. Join me to learn more from Bruce!  

Welcome! Today we are talking to Sarah Mastriani Levy over a cup of tea-cino! Sarah has a podcast called Simple Change, and is also a Holistic Healthy and Lifestyle Coach!  Sarah has an interesting background and grew up living for awhile in Grand Canyon National Park!    Sarah Mastriani-Levi was born in the United States and spent the first 18 years of her life traveling with her family and studying in various regions of the U.S.  In 1995, she moved to Israel and began her training in naturopathic medicine and holistic bodywork.  She has had extensive clinical practice and is a certified practitioner in the following fields: advanced reflexology, shiatsu, Swedish massage, manual lymph drainage, iridology, aromatherapy and herbology.       In this episode, Sarah also discusses:   How we create a plastic life It’s not what happens to you, but how you handle what happens to you How to find your “allowable rebellions” The biggest factor that contributes to Sarah’s success as a coach Why fear has never stopped or defined Sarah Why you need to be curious Everything is “Google-able” How to get the best returns on your investments in life Different challenges with the lifestyle choices we make How she intentionally makes time to connect with her children Why being outside should be a priority in your life How to make positive changes in your life to get what you need Why dieting is something you should avoid Why Sarah loves her work and how she helps people     Connect with Sarah:   Website: http://mannafestliving.com/   Simple Change Podcast: http://mannafestliving.com/simple-change/  

We’re moving along in our summer series—now to Episode 3! My guest is Melissa Jones, who wears many hats in the creative world. She refers to herself as a “Creative Entrepreneur.” We can describe her as a designer, author, marketer, artist, editor, traveler, photographer, foodie, whiskey-lover, and shoe collector. Melissa runs her own business, helping people add polish to their personal and business branding with her brilliant design. Melissa believes in supporting companies who are devoted to making the world a better place. She lives for travel, new challenges, and adventures. She has trekked to over 40 countries with her pottery, painting, and photographs. Melissa’s new book is Women with Wanderlust, a Kindle edition available on amazon.com. Join me for an amazing conversation with Melissa! You can read the full show notes at www.financialkarma.com.

Let’s start with episode 2! Let’s have a delicious summer with Alex Jamieson! I am so excited to have her on the show and that she is honoring me with being one of the first people I interview. She is an entrepreneur with the spirit of a wise woman. She communicates so many ways with the world. She is the author of Women Food and Desire, she is a blogger, a true business woman and affiliations with people who can bring it all together that will help you with it comes to your nutrition. She is a mentor to so many women and also called the cravings whisperer.   Show Notes: What does listen to your body mean? How does sleep affect your body? What sort of things can mess with sleep? What kinds of activities does she recommend for summer? “Wanting what you want to want” Go to the farmer's market! Ayurveda? What’s that? You can read the full show notes and get access to all the links and resources at www.financialkarma.com      

Welcome to episode 1! We are going to splash into summer with Nick Snapp! Nick is a former corporate guy turned entrepreneur, a dad, husband and balances those things beautifully. I don’t know how he does it! He is a productivity expert. He is going to share with us some of his experiences on the show of how he got to the chapter he is in his life.  Don’t forget to look for the karma! Show Notes: How did Nick get into podcasting? What got him out of the corporate world? What is his personal goal with his podcast? How did Nick get into productivity? How to bring up productivity to people in the summer Set routines! You can read the full show notes and access all the links and resources at www.financialkarma.com

Hang on for the ride!