HerMoney with Jean Chatzky

In this special AMA Mailbag episode, Jean sits down with two thoughtful guests navigating how to prepare for retirement as single women.  First up is Liz, who's about a year out from retiring. She's done a lot of smart planning, but wants to double-check her next moves. We're talking about annuities, TIPS ladders, Roth conversions, and how to create steady, reliable income in retirement. Then we hear from Bernadette, who is in her 50s and starting to look into long-term care options, but is having some major sticker shock. So if you're single, planning ahead, and want to protect your future without sacrificing flexibility, this one's for you.

Moody's downgrade. Rising interest rates. Lipstick sales and banana prices as economic signals? This week, we sit down with Katie Klingensmith, Chief Investment Strategist at Edelman Financial Engines, to unpack what's really going on with the economy and how it impacts your money. From home buying and interest rates to investing in gold, crypto, and international stocks, Katie helps make sense of it all. If you're wondering how to stay financially steady in uncertain times, this episode is for you. … Does more financial confidence sound good to you, then you might want to try: 

Today, we're joined by powerhouse financial executive and author Mellody Hobson for an eye-opening conversation about how we teach — and often don't teach — our kids about money. As co-CEO of Ariel Investments and author of Priceless Facts About Money, Mellody believes that the path to financial literacy starts with our youngest learners. Together, Jean and Mellody explore:

Are you happy at work? If the answer is anything less than a confident yes, or if you've ever felt a quiet nudge toward something more meaningful, this episode is your invitation to rethink what you're doing and why. Today on the HerMoney Podcast, Jean Chatzky sits down with Suzy Welch, acclaimed NYU professor and author of the new book Becoming You: The Proven Method for Crafting Your Authentic Life and Career. Suzy shares her revolutionary 15-step framework for discovering your purpose through the lenses of your values, aptitudes, and economically viable interests. … Does more financial confidence sound good to you, then you might want to try: 

What does retirement really look like? Spoiler alert: it's not all white sand beaches and 4 p.m. tee times. Today, we're pulling back the curtain on how Americans retire. Not in theory, but in practice. On the most recent episode of Your Money Map, our weekly show with the Alliance for Lifetime Income, we sit down with Wall Street Journal reporters Veronica Dagher and Anne Tergesen to talk about their series: “The Way We Retire Now.” If you like this episode and want more, check out all of our Your Money Map episodes at protectedincome.org/your-money-map/ or tune in live every Wednesday at 12 PM ET on Facebook or LinkedIn. Looking for more financial confidence?

This week, we're getting real about financial independence and why it doesn't have to mean deprivation. Jean sits down with JL Collins, the “Godfather of Financial Independence,” to talk about the relaunch of his bestselling book The Simple Path to Wealth: Your Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life. In a world of rising prices, economic anxiety, and market volatility, does the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement still work? JL says yes. If you've ever wondered whether financial independence is realistic for you or how to start moving toward it (even slowly), this episode is for you. We're talking index funds, cash cushions, mindset shifts, and how to build resilience when you're inundated with questionable financial advice. Resources and Links: JL Collins' Blog The Simple Path to Wealth (2025 Edition)

In this special AMA Mailbag episode, Jean dives into your most pressing retirement questions with listeners Pam and Laurie.  First up, Pam, who inherited an IRA from her late mother, wonders whether to cash it out or invest it for the long haul. Then we hear from Laurie, a military spouse navigating what to do with her husband's TSP now that he's out of the service. Should they roll it over? Keep it where it is? And what's the best way for a newly self-employed woman to start saving for retirement on her own terms?

This week, we're digging into one of the most pressing financial crises of our time: student loans. After a five-year pause, the Trump administration has officially restarted collections on defaulted federal student loans, and millions of borrowers could soon face wage garnishment, reduced Social Security benefits, and even hits to their credit scores. Joining us is Jillian Berman, author of the groundbreaking new book, Sunk Cost: Who's to Blame for the Nation's Broken Student Loan System and How to Fix It. Jillian takes us behind the headlines, breaks down who is most at risk, and how to get your payments back on track if you're in default.  Resources & Links:

Motherhood is personal and more than a little bit complicated. And today, we're diving deep into the emotional and financial complexities of modern motherhood with journalist and author of The Mother Code: My Story of Love, Loss, and the Myths That Shape Us, Ruthie Ackerman. Ruthie's journey includes freezing her eggs in her 30s, navigating a divorce, and ultimately becoming a mother at 43 through donor eggs. But her story is about much more than biology—it's about breaking timelines, challenging societal expectations, and rewriting what it means to live a full, intentional life…with or without children. Looking for more financial confidence?

On today's episode, Jean is sitting down with the brilliant Rachel Rodgers — bestselling author, CEO of Hello Seven, and mom of four — to talk about how we can help the next generation not just survive, but truly thrive. Rachel shares her fresh, practical roadmap for helping young people build wealth early: from learning to dream big (million-dollar big!) to teaching them the language of money, investing their earnings, and embracing an entrepreneurial mindset. We dive into why just "getting a job" isn't enough anymore, how to help Gen Z overcome financial stress, and why every kid should think like an owner and investor. Looking for more financial confidence?

In this AMA Mailbag episode, Jean sits down with two thoughtful guests navigating major financial crossroads. First up is Dawn from Joshua Tree, who is in the process of closing her beloved but unprofitable gift shop. Then we hear from Karyn in Washington, who owns a rental home in Denver and is torn between keeping it as an investment or selling it while market conditions are strong.

This week, we're diving into a topic that's on everyone's mind right now—layoffs. Whether you've seen the headlines, heard the whispers in your own company, or been directly affected, the truth is: layoffs are on the rise again, and you need to know how to prepare for them. Our guest today, Peter Rahbar, is an employment attorney and workplace issues expert. He explains your post-layoff legal rights, offers practical career tips, and shares the most important mindset shift that can help you bounce back better than ever. Looking for more financial confidence?

In this special Mailbag episode, we welcome back personal finance expert Dana Miranda, author of You Don't Need a Budget, to tackle your most pressing money questions. From navigating early retirement goals to rebuilding credit post-divorce to whether or not you can justify your boutique Pilates membership, we're getting real about money, self-care, and financial freedom. Mailbag Questions: 01:00 “I'm 58, burnt out, and want to retire early; is $200k saved enough?” 07:00 “Should I use my 401(k) to pay off $70K in debt?” 13:00 “Can I afford to work part-time post-divorce, or do I need to look for a full-time job?” 20:00 “I make $180k and have 2 kids, is $200 a month too much for a gym membership?” Looking for more financial confidence?

Do you really need a budget to manage your money? Or is it time to delete the apps, toss the spreadsheets, and rethink everything? Today, we're sitting down with Dana Miranda, author of the bold new book You Don't Need a Budget: Stop Worrying About Debt, Spend Without Shame, and Manage Money With Ease. Together, she and Jean dig into why traditional “budget culture” can be just as toxic as diet culture and a more intuitive, values-based approach we can use instead. Looking for more financial confidence?

We've all been there: endlessly scrolling through financial headlines, absorbing TikTok hot takes, or reading investing books with dreams of becoming the next Warren Buffett. But what if all that advice is doing more harm than good? On the most recent episode of Your Money Map, our weekly show with the Alliance for Lifetime Income, we sit down with Barry Ritholtz, host of Bloomberg's Masters in Business podcast, CIO of Ritholtz Wealth Management, and author of the new book How Not to Invest: The Ideas, Numbers, and Behaviors That Destroy Wealth and How to Avoid Them. His mission? To help us unlearn everything that's steering us in the wrong direction. If you like this episode and want more, check out all of our Your Money Map episodes at protectedincome.org/your-money-map/ or tune in live every Wednesday at 12 PM ET on Facebook or LinkedIn.

Climate news in the last few years has felt incredibly depressing.  Melting ice caps. Declining bee populations. Corporate greenwashing. It's easy to feel like there's nothing we can do that actually makes a difference. But what if you could take one simple action that not only helped the planet but also your wallet and your mental health? This week, we sit down with Ashlee Piper, award-winning sustainability expert and author of No New Things: A Radically Simple 30-Day Guide to Saving Money, the Planet, and Your Sanity. She shares how stepping off the work-to-buy treadmill helped her save $36,000, pay off debt, and reconnect with what actually brings her joy. Join the Challenge + Learn More:

This week, we're bringing back expert investor Jenny Van Leeuwen Harrington for a special mailbag episode. She's answering all of your excellent saving and investing questions—from how to start investing outside of a retirement account to making the most of a short college savings window to figuring out which account to draw from in retirement.  Whether you're just getting started investing or reassessing your strategy later in life, Jenny and Jean break down the decisions that matter most—and remind us that successful investing is more about time in the market than picking the perfect stocks. Mailbag Questions: [1:30] “Is 59 too late to open a Roth IRA, and what should I invest in?” [5:00] “We have 3 teens and not much saved for college yet. Where should we start?” [7:30] “I'm a retiree, and I'd like to start pulling money on a monthly basis. Which account should I pull from first?”  [11:30] “I make $150,000 a year and put $1,000 into my 401k every month. If I want to retire in 15 years, what else should I be investing in?” Looking for more financial confidence?

Markets have been rocky—and if you're feeling a little uneasy about where your money is sitting right now, you're not alone. That's exactly why we're turning our attention to a strategy that's all about dependable income and peace of mind: dividend investing. This week, we're sitting down with Jenny Van Leeuwen Harrington, CEO of Gilman Hill Asset Management and author of Dividend Investing: Dependable Income to Navigate All Market Environments.  Whether you're nearing retirement or just want to sleep better at night, this episode breaks down how you can build a dividend-focused portfolio tailored to your life and your risk tolerance.  Resources & Links Mentioned:

We're not going to sugarcoat it, it's been a brutal few days on Wall Street. Markets are reeling. Investors are spooked. And if you've peeked at your 401(k) with one eye open while sipping a very large glass of wine...you're not alone. That's why we asked Karen Finerman, co-founder of our InvestingFixx club, to join us to break down what this market chaos really means, how long it might last, and what you should (and shouldn't) be doing with your money right now.

Are financial advisors worth the cost? How do you know when it's time to switch from DIY investing? What exactly should an advisor be doing for you?  In this special Mailbag episode, Pam Krueger, CEO of WealthRamp, answers all your biggest questions about working with a financial advisor. Plus, we tackle the #1 retirement fear—running out of money—and explain how to stress-test your finances to stay on track. Mailbag Questions: [02:00] “When is it time to move from a robo-advisor to a real human?” [07:00] “Can someone call themselves a fiduciary but still earn commissions?” [9:30] “I only have $100k saved. Will a financial advisor work with me?” [12:00] “Should my advisor help with budgeting, insurance, and college planning—or just investments?” [15:00] “How can I make sure my retirement savings last a lifetime?” Looking for more financial confidence?

Finding a trustworthy financial advisor can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be.  Today, we're joined by Pam Krueger, an investor advocate and the founder of Wealthramp, a referral service that connects consumers with vetted, fee-only fiduciary advisors, to break down how to find the right advisor for your financial goals. We dive into the biggest red flags to watch for, the difference between fee-only and commission-based advisors, and how to take control of your money with confidence. Resources & Links Mentioned: Connected with a vetted, fee-only financial advisor here. Learn more about Pam and Wealthramp. Looking for more financial confidence?

In today's Mailbag, we're diving into your burning AI questions with Celia Quillian, author of AI for Life: 100+ Ways to Use Artificial Intelligence to Make Your Life Easier, More Productive…and More Fun! Whether you're navigating a career shift, streamlining home maintenance tasks, or planning a road trip, Celia shares how you can use AI to make your life easier.  Mailbag Questions: [02:00] “Can AI help me with a career pivot post-layoff?” [06:00] “How can I use AI to keep track of things I need to get done around the house?” [10:00] “What are the best free AI courses for beginners?” [11:00] “Can AI help me plan a bucket list road trip?” Looking for more financial confidence?

Artificial intelligence is here to stay, and instead of fearing it, we should learn how to make it work for us. Celia Quilian is an AI expert and author of the new book, AI for Life: 100+ Ways to Use Artificial Intelligence to Make Your Life Easier, More Productive…and More Fun!  She's joining us to break down how generative AI can help us boost productivity, negotiate raises, manage our finances, and even help book our next vacation.  Resources & Links Mentioned: Find Celia on TikTok here. Article on AI Tools and Environmental Impact Looking for more financial confidence?

We're back with Ramit Sethi, bestselling author of Money for Couples, for a special Mailbag episode! You asked, and we're diving into your biggest questions on love, money, and financial decision-making as a team.  From when to return to work to navigating financial resentment in a marriage, Ramit shares his expert insights (with a dose of tough love) on how to approach these tricky conversations. Mailbag Questions: [01:00] “Should my inheritance fund my husband's early retirement?” [07:00] “Should I go back to school for my dream job—even if it means taking on more debt?” [13:00] “How do we raise financially responsible kids when we can afford to give them everything?” Looking for more financial confidence?

Money and relationships — it's complicated. But what if those tough conversations with your partner could actually bring you closer?  In this episode, Jean Chatzky sits down with personal finance expert and bestselling author Ramit Sethi to talk about how couples can stop fighting about money and start building their rich life together. Resources & Links Mentioned:

Scrambled, poached, or over-easy — Americans love their eggs. But lately, buying a carton at the grocery store has been an exercise in sticker shock. Why have egg prices skyrocketed? What role does bird flu play? And is relief on the way? In this episode, Jean sits down with Jadrian Wooten, Associate Professor of Economics at Virginia Tech, and Phil Lempert, the Supermarket Guru, to crack open the real reasons behind soaring egg prices. They break down supply chain disruptions, grocery store pricing strategies, and what this all means for your wallet. 

The markets are swinging. Inflation is making headlines. And President Trump just imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum. So… are we heading for a recession? And if we are, what does that mean for your wallet? On this special episode, we sit down with economist Kathryn Edwards to break down what's really happening in the economy. Kathryn explains what a recession is, why economic indicators have so many people on edge, and how new trade policies could impact our financial future. Looking for more financial confidence?

Do you ever wish you could be more confident, less anxious, or just a little more you, only better? Today we're joined by Olga Khazan, staff writer at The Atlantic and author of Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change. Olga shares what she learned during a year-long experiment in tweaking her habits, mindset, and daily routines — and what actually works when it comes to personal growth. Plus, it's Sleep Awareness Week! So in today's Mailbag, we're diving into one of the most overlooked factors in financial success, quality sleep. Joining us to tackle your questions is Luke Kelly, CEO of Bryte, a company at the forefront of sleep technology. Use code HERMONEY at bryte.com for $500 off the Bryte Balance model and $750 off the Bryte Balance Pro and Pro Conform.

Are you climbing the wrong ladder? Feeling stuck in a job that looks great on paper but drains your soul? In this Mailbag episode, Jean Chatzky and executive coach Keren Eldad tackle your biggest career and ambition dilemmas—whether you're burnt out in your 30s, reentering the workforce in your 40s, or wondering what's next at 55. Mailbag Questions: [01:00] “I Did Everything Right… So Why Am I Miserable?” [05:30] “Am I Too Late to Catch Up?” [10:00] “I'm 55, Bored, and Not Ready to Retire” [14:30] “How Do I Avoid a Life of Regret?” Looking for more financial confidence?

Are you constantly chasing the next big achievement, but still feeling unfulfilled? You're not alone. This week, we're diving into the concept of empty ambition—that relentless pursuit of success that often leaves high achievers burnt out, anxious, and wondering, “Is this all there is?” Our guest, Keren Eldad, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and the author of Gilded: Breaking Free from the Cage of Ambition, Perfectionism, and the Relentless Pursuit of More joins us to unpack why so many high-achieving women get stuck in a cycle of perfectionism, people-pleasing, and loss aversion — and how to break free.

What does it truly mean to live a wealthy life? If you think it's all about money, think again. On the most recent episode of Your Money Map, our weekly show with the Alliance for Lifetime Income, we sit down with Sahil Bloom, entrepreneur, writer, and author of The Five Types of Wealth, to explore a new, holistic approach to wealth-building. Sahil shares his personal journey of redefining success and explains why financial wealth is just one piece of the puzzle. If you like this episode and want more, check out all of our Your Money Map episodes at protectedincome.org/your-money-map/ or tune in live every Wednesday at 12 PM ET on Facebook or LinkedIn.

As we close out Black History Month, we wanted to shine a spotlight on one sector of the population we're truly in awe of: Black female business owners. Although Black women make up less than 10% of the U.S. population, they've emerged as the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the country.  Today we're joined by Tiffany Dufu, president of the Tory Burch Foundation and author of Drop the Ball, to discuss what's fueling the rise of Black women-owned businesses, the biggest hurdles they face, and how we can all use our purchasing power to support them. Looking for more financial confidence?

Bonds: They're often known as the “boring” part of a portfolio, but they serve a critical purpose in helping investors manage risk and generate steady returns. And we have questions: With interest rates rising and the economy in flux, is now a good time to invest in bonds? How do inflation and the Federal Reserve's decisions impact bond yields? And should you buy individual bonds or stick to bond funds? In this episode, we're joined by Eric Jacobson, Director of Manager Research at Morningstar, to break down everything you need to know about bonds in 2025. We're going back to basics — and by the end of this episode, you'll know exactly how bonds should fit into your financial plan. Looking for more financial confidence?

In this week's Mailbag, where we're diving deep into all things grocery shopping, meal prep, and saving money on food!  Ali Slagle, author of I Dream of Dinner (So You Don't Have To) and writer of the 40 Ingredients Forever Substack joins us again to answer your questions about how to stretch your grocery dollars, make meal prep effortless, and cook delicious meals with just a few staples. Have you ever wondered how to shop smarter at the grocery store? Or how long past the "best by" date you can really eat that yogurt? We've got you covered. More From This Episode:

Have you ever found yourself rushing to the store for a single missing ingredient, only to watch it go bad in your fridge after one use? You're not alone. With grocery prices soaring, getting the most out of your food budget has never been more important.  This week, we're joined by Ali Slagle, New York Times contributor and author of 40 Ingredients Forever, to talk about the art of cooking smarter—not harder. Ali shares her philosophy on keeping a “capsule kitchen” with just 40 key ingredients that can be used in endless combinations.  Resources & Links:

If you've ever wondered how to navigate love, money, and relationships in today's dating world, you're not alone!

Happy Valentine's Day, HerMoney fam! If you've ever ventured into online dating, you know how tricky (and sometimes exhausting) it can be. But before you consider hiring a matchmaker with a hefty price tag, we've got you covered. This week, we sit down with Maria Avgitidis, aka Matchmaker Maria to talk about what really goes into finding “the one.” She's a fourth-generation matchmaker, CEO of Agape Match, and author of Ask a Matchmaker: Matchmaker Maria's No-Nonsense Guide To Finding Love. If you're single and looking — or just fascinated by modern matchmaking — you won't want to miss this one! In Mailbag, Jean and Kathryn answer listener questions about prenups, financial independence in marriage, and the best way to sell an engagement ring post-divorce. Resources & Links:

Today we're diving deep into all of your questions about the financial challenges that come with perimenopause and menopause with the incredible Jill Herzig, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Midi Health. We're tackling everything from career confidence in midlife to the real cost of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).   If you caught our last episode, you know Jill is on a mission to make midlife healthcare more accessible — and today, she's here to answer your questions and make you feel more confident in this next stage of your life. Resources mentioned in this episode: ✨ Midi Health – Get expert menopause care, wherever you are: joinmidi.com

This week, Jean sits down with Jill Herzig, Chief Brand Officer and co-founder of Midi Health, to discuss how perimenopause and menopause impact women's careers, finances, and overall well-being.  We break down the financial burden of menopause — lost productivity, medical costs, and workplace struggles — and explore real solutions, from hormone therapy to lifestyle changes. 

2025 is officially here, and with it comes a new administration in the White House, along with new economic policies that will impact you and your wallet.  On the most recent episode of Your Money Map, our weekly show with the Alliance for Lifetime Income, we're joined by Betsey Stevenson, University of Michigan Public Policy and Economics Professor and Former Chief Economist of the U.S. Department of Labor, to talk about what economic changes in the New Year could mean for retirees. If you like this episode and want more, check out all of our Your Money Map episodes at protectedincome.org/your-money-map/ or tune in live every Wednesday at 12 PM ET on Facebook or LinkedIn. Resources mentioned in this episode: Think Like An Economist Podcast Alliance for Lifetime Income: ProtectedIncome.org Learn more about InvestingFixx, our women's investing club where you can vote on stocks, build a model portfolio, and grow your financial knowledge. Take the next step in your financial journey with FinanceFixx, our money makeover program. Have a question for us? Write to us (or send us a voice note!) at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're tackling the complexities of the insurance system with Jay Feinman, author of Delay, Deny, Defend: Why Insurance Companies Don't Pay Claims and What You Can Do About It. We dive into the recent, shocking murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson and how it brought our collective frustrations with the health insurance industry into sharp focus. And in Mailbag, Jean and Kathryn tackle a listener's question about long-term care insurance. Is a whole-life policy with a long-term care rider the right choice, or is a standalone policy better? Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Jay Feinman's book: Delay, Deny, Defend: Why Insurance Companies Don't Pay Claims and What You Can Do About It. Websites like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power for rating insurance providers Healthcare.gov and state insurance marketplaces for comparing health plans Learn more about InvestingFixx, our women's investing club where you can vote on stocks, build a model portfolio, and grow your financial knowledge. Take the next step in your financial journey with FinanceFixx, our money makeover program. Have a question for us? Write to us (or send us a voice note!) at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're diving into your FIRE questions with Shang Saavedra, author of Wealth is a Mindset and a trailblazer in the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement. Shang achieved financial independence at 32 and is here to help you tackle everything from early retirement to overcoming money trauma. We cover: How to plan for retirement when the timeline feels uncertain. The importance of viewing retirement not as an age, but as a state of mind. Strategies for dealing with money trauma and shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset. Advice for parents balancing their own savings with paying for their children's college education. How to make retirement a reality if you're working in a toxic environment and want to leave. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Have a question for us? Write to us (or send us a voice note!) at mailbag@hermoney.com.  Learn more about InvestingFixx, our women's investing club where you can vote on stocks, build a model portfolio, and grow your financial knowledge. Take the next step in your financial journey with FinanceFixx, our money makeover program. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're diving deep into the world of Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) with Shang Saavedra, founder of Save My Cents and author of Wealth is a Mindset: Change Your Mind, Change Your Money. Shang achieved FIRE at just 32 years old, and she's here to share the ups, downs, and lessons from her journey. And don't miss our mailbag segment, where Jean tackles questions about bond funds, ETFs, and making the most of prepaid rewards cards. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Shang Saavedra's book: Wealth is a Mindset: Change Your Mind, Change Your Money Shang's platform: Save My Cents HerMoney's Finance Fix and Investing Fix programs: Learn More Article: Wall Street Journal on bonds Learn more about InvestingFixx, our women's investing club where you can vote on stocks, build a model portfolio, and grow your financial knowledge. Take the next step in your financial journey with FinanceFixx, our money makeover program. Have a question for us? Write to us (or send us a voice note!) at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Jean Chatzky is joined by Karen Finerman, CEO of Metropolitan Capital Advisors, a CNBC Fast Money panelist, and co-founder of our InvestingFixx Club. Together, they reflect on the standout moments of 2024, take a deep dive into the forces shaping the markets in 2025, and offer insights into the year ahead. Whether you're new to investing or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with actionable advice, thoughtful analysis, and inspiration to help you navigate the markets with confidence in 2025. Learn more about InvestingFixx, our women's investing club where you can vote on stocks, build a model portfolio, and grow your financial knowledge. Take the next step in your financial journey with FinanceFixx, our money makeover program. Have a question for us? Write to us (or send us a voice note!) at mailbag@hermoney.com.  While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's somehow the middle of January — which means if you've made your resolutions and you're still sticking to them, congratulations are in order! You've made it past Quitters Day or the day when most people abandon their resolutions (it falls on the second Friday in January).  But if you have fallen off of your financial resolutions, this is your sign to pick them back up. Because of his year, it's time to get serious about building some financial stability, financial resiliency, and cultivate a healthier relationship with money.  Matt Lundquist, a Columbia University-trained psychotherapist and founder of Tribeca Therapy digs into the root of our money issues and walks us through the steps we can take to improve our relationships with money once and for all.  CHAPTERS: 00:00 Improving financial habits in the New Year 06:00 Common barriers to good financial behavior 18:00 Why people overspend and use money to address emotional voids 28:00 When to seek financial therapy 33:00 Mailbag Question 1: What's the best way to invest in Bitcoin with a small amount of money?  40:00 Mailbag Question 2: How do I best support my parents in paying back my student loans?  TAKEAWAYS: Many financial behaviors, such as avoiding credit card statements or overspending, are tied to deeper psychological patterns rather than a lack of financial knowledge. Tackling small financial disagreements early as a couple can help build a framework for handling larger financial challenges later. Finding the right therapist involves looking for someone experienced in discussing money-related emotions or asking targeted questions about their experience with this topic. Learn more about Jean Chatzky's multiweek Money Makeover program FinanceFixx here. Use code PODCAST for a $100 discount. Interested in learning more about investing alongside hundreds of other women? Join us every other Monday night on Zoom at investingfixx.com. Your first month is completely free. Have a question for us? Write to us (or send us a voice note!) at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, in honor of #DryJanuary, we're bringing back this episode with Laura McKowen, author of We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life. We explore the evolving conversation around alcohol consumption, sobriety, and how they intersect with women's lives, careers, and finances. Laura also shares her personal journey with alcohol addiction, recovery, and how sobriety improved her financial habits and overall life. CHAPTERS: 2:30: Alcohol and Culture: Why We Don't Talk About It 8:00: A Turning Point: Laura's Sobriety Journey 17:45: The Financial Cost of Drinking 26:00 Practical Tips for the Sober Curious Additional Resources: “Is That Drink Worth It To You?” By Susan Dominus This Naked Mind by Annie Grace  Learn more about our Finance Fixx program here. Use code PODCAST for a $100 discount. Interested in learning more about investing alongside hundreds of other women? Join us every other Monday night on Zoom at investingfixx.com. Have a question for us? Write to us at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to 2025! It's a New Year and it's also a Presidental transition year which means we're all wondering where things may be headed this year economy-wise. A little trepidation is always expected anytime a new President is due to take office, but Americans are feeling especially uncertain about how President-elect Trump's decisions may have a ripple effect on our personal economies.  Kathryn Edwards, PhD Economist shares how the US economy is really doing and what it could mean for our wallets in 2025. CHAPTERS: 04:00 The lasting economic reverberations from the pandemic 06:00 Structural economic inequality in the U.S. 11:00 The economy's cyclical nature 14:00 Advice for investors 17:00 The economic impact of tariffs 22:00 The childcare market failure TAKEAWAYS: The pandemic's impact has left a long-lasting imprint, contributing to current economic uncertainty. The challenges Americans face are rooted in decades of structural economic inequality dating back to the 1980s. Tariffs increase consumer costs and create unpredictable economic ripple effects. Learn more about our Finance Fixx program here. Use code PODCAST for a $100 discount. Interested in learning more about investing alongside hundreds of other women? Join us every other Monday night on Zoom at investingfixx.com. Have a question for us? Write to us at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is one of your New Year's resolutions to finally hire a financial advisor this year but unsure of where to start? We hear you. That's why we're bringing back this special mailbag episode with Pam Krueger, founder and CEO of WealthRamp, to tackle all your burning questions about financial advisors. From finding a fiduciary you can trust to navigating minimum asset requirements, we've got you covered. CHAPTERS: 02:00 Key questions to ask a financial advisor 07:00 Advisors and tax professionals: building a team 14:00 How often should you meet with your financial advisor? 22:00 Advisors who specialize in FIRE Additional Resources: Check out WealthRamp to get matched with a vetted fiduciary advisor. Explore the XY Planning Network for advisors who work with younger clients. Learn about the Association of African American Financial Advisors here. Learn more about our Finance Fixx program here. Use code PODCAST for a $100 discount. Interested in learning more about investing alongside hundreds of other women? Join us every other Monday night on Zoom at investingfixx.com. Have a question for us? Write to us at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! The HerMoney with Jean Chatzky podcast is sponsored by Edelman Financial Engines. The podcast team and its host are neither employees nor clients of EFE, however, the show does receive fixed compensation and is a paid endorser and therefore has an incentive to endorse EFE and its planners. To learn more about the sponsorship, please visit PlanEFE.com/HerMoney. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast, and to learn more about Airwave, head to www.airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're diving headfirst into a question that has sparked both inspiration and existential angst for centuries: Finding your purpose. It's a daunting idea, isn't it? Purpose can feel abstract, elusive, and ever-shifting — something we're constantly chasing but rarely confident we've fully grasped.  Dr. Jordan Grumet, author of The Purpose Code: How to Unlock Meaning, Maximize Happiness, and Leave a Lasting Legacy has answers — and thankfully they're not as complicated as you might think.  CHAPTERS: 00:00 The evolving nature of purpose  04:00 The difference between meaning and purpose 07:00 Little p and Big P Purpose   22:00 Finding purpose using the magic of subtraction 33:00 Mailbag Question 1: Retirement benchmarks vs. life priorities 41:00 Mailbag Question 2: Rebalancing portfolios near retirement  TAKEAWAYS: Purpose is created through meaningful actions. Rather than chasing lofty, big-picture goals, you should engage in daily activities that bring joy and fulfillment.  Leverage all available tools—time, energy, community, and passions—to build a life filled with meaning. Have a question for us? Write to us at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! The HerMoney with Jean Chatzky podcast is sponsored by Edelman Financial Engines. The podcast team and its host are neither employees nor clients of EFE, however, the show does receive fixed compensation and is a paid endorser and therefore has an incentive to endorse EFE and its planners. To learn more about the sponsorship, please visit PlanEFE.com/HerMoney. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast, and to learn more about Airwave, head to www.airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're bringing back our episode with Melissa Bernstein, co-founder of the renowned toy company Melissa & Doug, to discuss the critical importance of mental health. Melissa opens up about her decades-long battle with anxiety, depression, and existential despair, sharing how she learned to channel her struggles into light and creativity. We explore why so many women feel isolated, the power of self-acceptance, and how to build authentic relationships. Learn more about our Finance Fixx program here. Use code PODCAST for a $100 discount. Interested in learning more about investing alongside hundreds of other women? Join us every other Monday night on Zoom at investingfixx.com. Have a question for us? Write to us at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! The HerMoney with Jean Chatzky podcast is sponsored by Edelman Financial Engines. The podcast team and its host are neither employees nor clients of EFE, however, the show does receive fixed compensation and is a paid endorser and therefore has an incentive to endorse EFE and its planners. To learn more about the sponsorship, please visit PlanEFE.com/HerMoney. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast, and to learn more about Airwave, head to www.airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This holiday season has been….stressful. And if it feels like you're feeling more holiday stress this year than your male partner, you probably are. A 2023 poll from Yahoo News and YouGov found that 43% of women said their level of stress and anxiety increases during the holidays (compared to 32% of men).  Resiliency and stress expert Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe shares her top tips for entering the New Year with less stress. Because when we're less stressed we have more space to manage our needs (including our financial needs), and we can start planning for the future.  CHAPTERS: 00:00 Why the holidays are so stressful 06:31 Redefining resiliency  9:01 The five pillars of resilience 20:31 A prescription for stress recovery 33:46 Mailbag Question 1: What is a safe harbor account?  36:01 Mailbag Question 2: I'm 60 years old. Should I convert my traditional IRA into a Roth IRA?  TAKEAWAYS: Resilience is often misunderstood. It's not just about being born with it but building it through lived experiences and relationships.  Stress itself isn't the enemy. It's the overexposure to stress (distress) that harms us. Research suggests that swearing (when not directed at others) can improve pain tolerance. Learn more about our Finance Fixx program here. Use code PODCAST for a $100 discount. Interested in learning more about investing alongside hundreds of other women? Join us every other Monday night on Zoom at investingfixx.com. Have a question for us? Write to us at mailbag@hermoney.com. While you're at it, join the HerMoney community! For the latest episode drops and financial news-you-can-use, subscribe to our newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! Use promo code HERMONEY at the link below to get an exclusive 60% off an annual plan at https://incogni.com/hermoney. The HerMoney with Jean Chatzky podcast is sponsored by Edelman Financial Engines. The podcast team and its host are neither employees nor clients of EFE, however, the show does receive fixed compensation and is a paid endorser and therefore has an incentive to endorse EFE and its planners. To learn more about the sponsorship, please visit PlanEFE.com/HerMoney. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast, and to learn more about Airwave, head to www.airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices