The Money Millhouse

Bethany and Ellie celebrate the season finale of The Money Millhouse by recapping their favorite episodes and guests. They also reflect on fun memories of the season as well as looking ahead at exciting things to come. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/season-3-finale

In the next-to-last episode of the season, Doug Nordman returns to The Money Millhouse, but this time he is accompanied by his daughter Carol Pittner. Bethany and Ellie love having another multi-generational financial family in the Millhouse as they discuss the different approaches each family took. Doug explains how he was able to teach Carol about money through the "Bank of Carol" and the concept of a Kid 401k. Carol also explains the main takeaways from her childhood money education and what she plans to pass down to her child. Bethany and Ellie also discuss some of the money-teaching tools Ellie used to raise Bethany, as well as what Bethany plans to continue with the next generation. Doug and Carol share the concept behind their new book they wrote together called Raising Your Money-Savvy Family For Next Generation Financial Independence, coming in spring 2020 from ChooseFI Media. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/raising-money-savvy-kids-doug-nordman-carol-pittner

Budgeting is one of the subjects the ladies of The Money Millhouse love talking about the most—partly because it helped Ellie pay of $40,000 of debt in 2.5 years, and because it is something both ladies love implementing in their homes. Bethany and Ellie start the show discussing their budgets and how Bethany's is changing with the upcoming arrival of a new baby. They also touch on how their budgets have changed in the pandemic, and where they are spending less money than normal as well as where they are spending more. Bobbi Olson joins the conversation talking about how she met Ellie—and how Ellie inspired her long before they met personally. Bobbie also talks about the joys of budgeting for her and what it has allowed her to do in her life financially. She shares her “money toolbox” and how that has helped her with her finances, as well as how strict she is about her budget when it comes to every day expenses. For more, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/joy-of-budgeting-bobbi-olson-centsable-chat

Life doesn't stop during a pandemic, but it certainly changes a bit! Bethany and Ellie begin this weeks episode discussing how their lives have change in the last month of sheltering in place. Bethany shares a story of kindness from a stranger in a line for Trader Joe's. Carol Sanford joins then to discuss how to have a Regenerative Life, which is also the title of her latest book. She approaches the topic of “heroes” in our society and a non-heroic approach to a world-changing life. She shares how to view life and career in a different way than what we are used to, including how to view life if you are a “disrupter”. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/regenerative-life-with-carol-sanford-of-the-regenerative-business-development-community

Join Ellie and Bethany in week two of their discussion with Tanja Hester about Financial Feminism. This week they focus on women in the workplace. Ellie and Bethany give examples of situations they encounter frequently as Tanja gives suggestions on how we can better combat the current climate. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/financial-feminism-tanja-hester-our-nextz-life-fairer-cents-part-2

What is Financial Feminism and should it mean something to me? Bethany and Ellie are joined this week in the Millhouse by Tanja Hester, author of Work Optional and creator of Our Next Life blog and The Fairer Cents podcast in a special two part series on Financial Feminism. This week they focus on Women and money in the home--specifically the roles women normally take when it comes to money. Tanja started her podcast because she felt like there were conversations that were not being had in the financial space when it comes to the unloved playing field and economic inequality. Tanja defines feminism as women and men are equal and that we are going to create a society and systems that uphold equality, even though the word often comes with unnecessary baggage. There are so many connections between finances and feminizes, and Tanja identifies a few of them. One of them is that men are often entrusted with "high finances" decisions, like where to invest their money, and women are often entrusted with the "low finance" decisions like how to stretch the grocery budget or how to clip coupons. They also talk about the stigma associated with women making major financial decisions and the idea of who is the bread winner. Tanja gives words for Ellie and Bethany to use when in situations where they may need to push back on perceived sexist comments and conversations without coming across overly bossy or dominant as a woman. Bethany and Ellie end the discussion talking about how stay at home moms have as much right and access to the money eared by their family even though they aren't the ones bringing in the money. Ellie shares how when she was a SAHM, she never felt like it was "his money" and "her money," but always "our money." Join the conversation next week as Tanja is in the Millhouse again talking about women in business. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/financial-feminism-tanja-hester-our-nextz-life-fairer-cents-part-1

Join Bethany and Ellie as they celebrate their 100th episode of original content. To commemorate this special occasion, they invited their other halves, Bob Kay and Travis Bayless, to the kitchen table to hear their thoughts on the podcast, their wives, and behind the scenes secrets the audience may not know. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/special-100th-episode-celebration-meet-the-husbands

Social Media has changed the way businesses market. It accompanies businesses in every marketing plan in order to stay relevant. In the Millhouse today, we have Monica Louie who talks about how small businesses can take out ads on Facebook and Instagram at a small business budget. She shares her story about she came to be a Facebook and Instagram Ads Strategist and the benefits of using this in a marketing plan. Monica talks about how it is a relatively low cost marketing plan for small businesses where you also have more control over who you put your ad in front of. She advises to get clear on who specifically it is that you help and to find strategies around how to meet them. She also talks about all the ways people use Facebook and Instagram ads wether it is to build an email list, sell products, or drive traffic to monetized blog posts. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/social-media-marketing-with-ads-monica-louie-flouirsh-seven-figures

We took a break in our regular content to address the Corona Virus and some things to keep in mind when it comes to your finances. This episode was recorded during a FaceBook Live as Bethany and Ellie talk about ways we are handling the pandemic both personally and financially. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/what-to-focus-on-during-a-pandemic

Sharon Epperson joins The Money Millhouse discussing how she got started in journalism and how that lead to where she is today in her career. She shares about when she was at the top of her game then had an unexpected brain aneurism that could have ended her life. She also talked about her recovery and relearning walking, talking, and even balancing a checkbook. She is learning how to say no and how to not run on fumes. It is also important to be present in the moment—wether it is sitting across the table from friends or working on your career. Sharon also talks about her family and what part they play in her life. She shows how she stays engaged with them and manages her work/life balance. She also gives advice to Bethany as she is about to become a new mom. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/remaining-resilient-in-times-of-uncertainty

There seem to be a lot of things that we feel hold us back in business as women. Whether it be a lack of skillset, internal struggles with confidence or fear of failure, or even practical day to day things like starting a family or juggling all the things outside work. Today in the Money Millhouse, we have Amira Alvarez of The Unstoppable Woman talking about just that. Amira says that the voice in your head, fear of failure, is the reason TO do something and not the reason not to. Bethany shares how she feels about how her business is shifting as she gets ready to have a baby, and she gets practical insight from Ellie from when she raised 5 children. Amira reminds us that the desire to achieve what you want needs to be bigger than the fear and negative voices in your head. It is reminding yourself of your “why” and finding the accountability of other women in business. It is important to surround yourself with a community who want to make an impact in the world. She also gives practical tips on how to find freedom in business through her Freedom Factors: —Look at what you want and make giant, shoot-for-the-moon goals. —Take a look at where are you now —Figure out the gap between your goals and where you are now —Figure out what going to get you to those goals —Come up with a plan to get there For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/how-to-be-unstoppable-amira-alvarez-the-unstoppable-woman

We are so stoked to have Glen James from @mymillennialmoney on a special FIELD TRIP episode of The Money Millhouse! Recently, Bethany ventured out of the Millhouse and went to Podcast Movement Evolutions in Downtown Los Angeles. While she was there, she got to catch up with our friend Glen in a fancy DTLA coffee shop whilst sipping on some delicious coffee. As you might be able to tell from the conversation, Glen is from Australia and makes time to come to the States every year for some specific conferences. As an entrepreneur, it may be difficult to justify an expense of a conference, especially if you aren't making money. In fact, once you add up the conference ticket, hotel, airfare, food, etc, going to a conference can be quite pricy. It also might be difficult to justify that expense to family members who might not understand. Glen gives great insight into WHY he chooses to spend so much money to attend these events and the returns conferences can have, including gaining knowledge about a particular field that can further your business, setting aside time to dedicate to developing your business or skill, as well as the invaluable relationships that you are able to walk away with. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/conferences-glen-james-my-millennial-money

It is a special episode of The Money Millhouse discussing The Simple Dollar Awards of 2020, in which The Money Millhouse won Best Personal Finance Podcast. On this topic, Ellie and Bethany discuss some of their favorite personal ‘wins' in the personal finance space in the last year and celebrating those little wins along the way. Bethany shares that one of her personal finance wins was traveling to 30 countries before she turned 30 completely debt free. Ellie's personal finance little win was the “crop of babies” her children have been having and the personal finance precedence she set for them. Adam Morgan, the Senior Editor of The Simple Dollar, joins the Millhouse team. They discuss why it is important to address personal finance as well as making it accessible for everyone. They also chat about the history of The Simple Dollar and how it emerged as a leading personal finance content provider. Recently, The Simple Dollar Awards for 2020 Awards, and Bethany and Ellie ask about a few specific awards and what The Simple Dollar was looking for when it came to awarding the Best of. The conversation comes back around to personal wins when Adam leaves the Millhouse. Bethany explains ways they have been saving for a baby and how they were purposeful about how they asked for money from family, but she also knows not everyone is able to have the luxury of help from family. Bethany and Ellie then discuss the financial responsibility of parents and children giving/receiving gifts. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/winning-in-personal-finance-with-adam-morgan-of-the-simple-dollar

We are super excited for a new episode this week with Todd Tresidder from Financial Mentor who retired at the age of 35. Todd comes into the Milllhouse to talk about how much money we need to retire and what retirement could mean for people (both good and bad). We also talk about what we would like to do when we retire one day and how the definition of retirement is changing. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/how-much-money-retire-todd-tresidder-financial-mentor-2

Do you have goals you are reaching for? What will it take to get there? Bethany and Ellie start the show discussing their guest, Don Mann, who is a retired Navy SEAL and has accomplished a great deal in his life. That leads them to discuss the kind of adventures they have done. They also discuss how they handle scary situations--wether it is bungee jumping or riding the subway in a foreign city somewhere. Don Mann comes into the Millhouse discussing reaching beyond boundaries. He discusses his story from the very beginning--including how he knew he wanted to become a SEAL as a young man. They also talk about where people start to begin a legacy and if it is something everyone has access to. Don also gives advice about how to use that energy to reach goals--both macro and micro. He suggests looking at the big goal (macro goals), then setting a series of smaller, micro goals that will help you get to the big, macro goal. He gives advice to those who hope to achieve the goals and reaching beyond boundaries, including having the mindset to reach the goal and staying motivated along the way. He suggests doing something every day of your life to make you faster, stronger, smarter, and most importantly, do something good for somebody. Bethany and Ellie end the show discussing how these lessons from Don apply to finances. They ask listeners for their latest tips and stories about how they are getting faster, stronger, and smarter in their finances. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/reaching-beyond-boundaries-seal-team-six-don-mann

Are you worming towards a massive goal? How are your finances helping (or hurting) the realization of that dream? Bethany and Ellie start the show talking about their future goals and (house) dreams. Ellie wants to eventually downsize their home and move to another state, because California is expensive. Bethany discusses how difficult living in So Cal can be and how she and friends from the Personal Finance community want to make a tiny house community. Ellie points out that major events can help hasten dreams. Brandy Baxter, founder of Live Abundantly and author of The Three Little Divas™ Reach Your Money Goals in 3 Steps Before You Huff and Puff and Blow Your Next Paycheck Away joins the conversation giving practical steps to work towards those big-sized goals. She talks about Grandma Diva, a character in her book that is a person that everyone looks to for wisdom and Grandma Diva believe everyone deserves to buy a house. She explained how Grandma Diva believed owning a home is a legacy and a place of comfort and stability. There is a major emotional aspect associated to that dream of owning a home. Brandi walks through an activity she created where she uses the example of a house and how it can be used as the next step in reaching goals. For the entire worksheet, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/housing-future-dreams-brandy-baxter-live-abundantly

Women around the world are able to maintain successful businesses while also being a full time mom. With Bethany's first child on the way, she has a few questions for Ellie, who was able to maintain a business while raising 5 kids at home. They are joined by another expert on the subject, Caroline Vencil, mompreneur, blogger, mother of four and serial side-hustler. They discuss ways to find creative places to work during the day as well as teaching kids by also owning a business. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/mom-and-ceo

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have famously exited the royal family to pursue financial independence. In this special episode of The Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie discuss why their decision was important and what it can teach us about the importance of Financial Freedom.  Trigger Warning: reference to abusive relationship situations and toxic workplaces  For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/what-harry-and-meghan-taught-us-about-financial-freedom

2020 is a great time for women to start businesses! Gerri Detweiler, the Education Director for NAV, joins the Millhouse to discuss female entrepreneurship in 2020. According to The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2016-17 Women's Report, things are getting better and better for female business owners. Gerri says that women are starting businesses more than ever before. What is exciting is that we are seeing more and more women starting innovation based businesses, as well as a growth in businesses owned by women of color. Gerri also says now more than ever, women are starting businesses because they want to instead of because they have to. Research has shown that North American women are less likely to have confidence in starting a business than that of women in other countries, but are more likely to start innovative businesses. Gerri emphasizes that women are more willing to test the waters and try out a business because it is relatively inexpensive to do so in today's technological age. Seeing everything as an experiment, women are more inclined to try businesses, wether it is part time, full time, or even a side-hustle.  Many women are willing to seek out the information they need in order to be successful and build those relationships needed. In most businesses, there is plenty of opportunity to get a slice.  When it comes to the financial aspect of business, it is always important to keep in mind to keep a margin in your business because sometimes you won't get paid. Gerri encourages business owners to use a small business credit card because some of those cards do not report to your personal credit. Having a small business card helps manages the high balances needed for running and business, and because the debt from a business can drag down a personal credit score. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/women-owned-businesses-in-2020-with-gerri-detweiler-of-nav

In the first new episode of the year, Ellie and Bethany discuss their New Year's goals. Rod Griffin from Experian joins them to discuss why buying a new car at the beginning of the year could be beneficial. They also discuss average car payments for new vs. used cars, and Bethany and Ellie share why they only buy used cars. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/new-year-new-car-with-rod-griffin-of-experian

The New Year is here! Join us for a special episode from our archives with Rachel Cruze that is perfect for this time of year. And be sure to stick around for a sneak peak into recording this episode and commentary from Ellie and Bethany. Rachel Cruze joins the show discussing New Year's Resolutions and some great ways to be practical about goals and goal setting. They discuss ways people can go about developing better habits, and teaching those habits to their kids as well. Rachel shares how “more is caught than bought” when it comes to teaching kids money. She also says it is important to have tangible, “quick wins” when it comes to anyone's money journey. Ellie talks a little bit about how she wouldn't let her kids borrow on their allowance because it would create bad work habits, and Rachel shares her views on allowances. Finally, Rachel talks about how to teach kids to have ‘skin in the game' by having their kids earn their own money. Bethany tells a story about when she was a little girl and earned half of an American Girl doll and what it meant to her. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/preparing-for-a-new-year-3

It is almost the New Year, which is a great time to consider your budget. Join the Millhouse crew for a show from the archives talking about just that. And stick around for after the show to hear special commentary from Bethany and Ellie. But do we HAVE to budget? The answer is--it is up to you!! We have Allison Baggerly from Inspired Budget in The Money Millhouse today talking about how she and her family paid off over $111K in debt (which, crazy, included budgeting!). Tune in to The Money Millhouse this week to hear Allison's incredible story and to hear the actionable tips she gives when it comes to creating and sticking to a budget to help with your financial health! For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/budgeting-allison-baggerly-inspired-budget-2-2

It is the perfect time to find your Year End Zen again! Join Bethan and Ellie for a special episode from the Archives, and be sure to stick around for their behind-the-scenes commentary from this episode with Liz Eischen. Bethany and Ellie open the show reflecting on the holiday season, as well as finding the year end zen in the midst of the holiday season. They give several year-end tax tips, as well. To find the link they mentioned, visit Liz Eischen joins the Millhouse giving her best year end zen tips, including understanding the "why" behind the stress and cutting out the extras this holiday season. Ellie mentions that it might be a vicious circle when it comes to stress in finances, and Liz explores this cycle. They also discuss an article Bethany saw about taking out a personal loan to afford Christmas, and Liz gives some practical ways we can look to afford Christmas where we don't feel like we are limiting Holiday Cheer. Traveling on a budget? Liz shows how she was able to afford to travel to 26 countries. Then we explore stress areas related to getting her Master's Degree and how to deal with that stress. She also talks about how she became a professional "dabbler", and how that has helped her learn as well as earn some extra income. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/find-your-year-end-zen-2

Merry Christmas from The Money Millhouse! Join Bethany and Ellie for a special episode where they discuss Christmas past, present, and future! For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/christmas-family-meeting

The holiday season can be a busy time—there's places to go, family to see, presents to buy and wrap, all while trying to have that Christmas cheer! In the Millhouse today is Jackie Jones from Sugar and Money sharing about her Holiday Planner that helps organize all the holiday details. Not only does she talk about things to keep in mind when planning out presents or family activities, she also shares practical ways to stay on budget during the most expensive time of year. And for Money Millhouse listeners, Jackie is sharing a special code to get a discount! Just go to sugarandmoney.com to purchase and enter code MILLHOUSE.

Do you ever find yourself saying you won't ever be able to afford nice things? Like a nice house, or nice vacations for your family? Today in The Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie are joined by Kristin Kaplan to talk about the scarcity versus abundance mindset. They start with the scarcity mindset. Ellie shares that where she is from in Texas, they call that “poor mouthing” as in, “We'll never have a house like that” or “I'll always have a boatload of student loan debt. Kristen defines scarcity mindset and gives practical ways to turn it into an abundance mindset. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/abundance-mindset-vs-the-scarcity-mindset-with-kristin-kaplan

Can you make your side hustle a full time hustle? Deacon Hayes from popular blog Well Kept Wallet joins the Money Millhouse to discuss just that. He shares his favorite ways to make money online, things to keep in mind when taking your side hustle as a full time gig, and how he was able to make a career out of a passion that was once a hobby. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/making-money-online-with-deacon-hayes-of-well-kept-wallet

Despite the wealth of information on budgeting, saving money, and side hustling, people still have a hard time paying off their debt. In The Money Millhouse today is Jen Smith of Modern Frugality discussing her debt free journey They discuss how many start but never finish and those who do tend to "restart" several times and Jen answers questions like: - What was the hardest thing for you about paying off debt? - Why do some people make it look so easy while others keep "falling off the wagon?" - What's the first thing people should do when setting the foundation for a sustainable debt-free journey? - What are some of the mistakes people make when starting their debt-free journey? For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/pay-off-your-debt-for-good

We interrupt our normal episodes for a special episode of Drinks with Darbi! Our good friend a frequent guest comes into the Millhouse to ask questions over some adult beverages. The topic of today is home buying for Millennials and what to keep in mind when saving and preparing to buy a home. Bethany and Ellie answer questions like how much is an ideal down payment, what would be a good fixed interest rate, which is better--15 or 30 year mortgage, does it matter where you buy the house or should you look in a different area, and more! For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/drinks-with-darbi-home-buying

In a special pre-Veterans Day episode, Lacey Langford comes into the Millhouse to discuss life as a military brat, veteran, and military spouse. Before she arrives, Bethany and Ellie discuss their association with the military and why they chose to be called "The Money Millhouse." They also talk about what life was like being married to/being the child of a military member. Bethany and Ellie end the show with a very emotional tribute to the veterans in their lives. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/salute-veterans-lacey-langford-military-money-show

Today we see a lot of Instagram highlight reels, and it is a real temptation to feel the pressure to keep up with what we think everyone is doing around us. The phrase “Keeping Up With the Joneses” goes all the way back to the Boomer Generation. But it applies to Gen X and Millennials as well. Today in the Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie welcome Ronnie Kinsey, a former police office on the southside of Atlanta turned Pastor. They discuss the concept of what it means to keep up with the Joneses and alternative options in our mindset when it comes to comparison. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/keeping-up-with-the-jonses-ronnie-kinsey

According to a poll conducted in early 2018 by global staffing firm Robert Half, 39 percent of workers tried to negotiate a higher salary during their last job offer. Forty-six percent of men negotiated salary compared to 34 percent of women. Workers ages 18-34 (45 percent) were more likely to negotiate salary than those ages 35-54 (40 percent) and 55 or older (30 percent). Today in the Money Millhouse, we get concrete tips from Jaime Chapman on how to negotiate a salary when taking a new job. She even gives tips on how to negotiate a salary before you even get an offer. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/job-negotiation-101-jaime-chapman-begin-within

When starting or maintaining a business, your spouse may not see the ROI right away, and it could even cause tension in your relationship. In the Millhouse today, we have Sylvia Inks of SMI Financial Coaching discuss ways we can communicate with our spouses when it comes to our business. She gives practical tips and communication techniques that can be used to repair a relationship that may be struggling with this area. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/talking-spouse-roi-business-sylvia-inks-smi-financial-coaching

We negotiate almost every day--wether it be with the manager at a store, a strong willed toddler, or a big business deal. In The Money Millhouse today, we have Leslie H. Tayne, Esq. Founder and Head Attorney of financial debt law firm Tayne Law Group, P.C. Before she comes in, Ellie and Bethany talk about Some of their favorite negotiation techniques. Leslie adds to the conversation when she provides her top tips on initiatives to close the deal with potential clients and the use of key negotiating skills to hone in on creating a more certain conversion ratio. They talk about: A) How to identify the real from the potential client, including key questions and identifiers within the first contact with a potential client. B) Beginning the process of closing the deal and the time you need to seal the deal. C) Identifying key factors of your business model that translate into converted potential clients. D) Ensuring the client signs with you. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/art-of-closing-the-deal-with-leslie-h-tayne

Do you feel like you are shamed by entrepreneurs for having a 9-to-5? The one and only Rich Jones from @paybalances joins us for this special episode LIVE from the #FinCon19 podcasting booth! Not only is Rich an awesome podcaster, he also happens to work for Google. On the show today we talk about how even with an awesome daytime job, he still feels the pressure from the entrepreneur community to be self-employed. We cherished this conversation focused on what the real goal is: loving waking up and working every day. According to Rich, if you find that in a traditional job, then there is no need to leave that behind for the grind of entrepreneur life. We are absolutely delighted to share this episode with you --and we may have even gotten emotional at times. For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/working-a-full-time-job-with-rich-jones

What the heck is dropshipping? And can it really make you money? In the Millhouse today, we have Nicole Bernard (@nb.mktg) from the Bubbles & Biz podcast talk to us about the basics of drop shipping: What is drop shipping? Can you make money from it? Is it better than an MLM (multi-level marketing)? How do you get started? What is the time commitment? For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/dropshipping-101-nicole-bernard-bubbles-and-biz

Are there secrets you don't know about renting? Today in The Money Millhouse we are so excited to have Justin Pogue, the master of rental secrets! He talks to us about how you can leverage the power you didn't know you had when it comes to negotiating rent and other strategies every renter can use to be a good neighbor.

The answer is--it is up to you!! We have Allison Baggerly from @inspiredbudget in The Money Millhouse today talking about how she and her family paid off over $111K in debt (which, crazy, included budgeting!). Tune in to The Money Millhouse this week to hear Allison's incredible story and to hear the actionable tips she gives when it comes to creating and sticking to a budget to help with your financial health!   For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/budgeting-allison-baggerly-inspired-budget-2

Welcome to Season 3 of The Money Millhouse! The team has been working hard all summer to bring you another great season of drinking coffee and hanging out around Ellie's kitchen table. On this special episode, Bethany and Ellie have a Family Meeting discussing the future of The Money Millhouse and some new things to expect this season. They cover what they have been doing this summer, some goals they have bother personally and professionally, and the new direction of The Money Millhouse. For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/season-3-family-meeting

Have you ever thought about living Tiny? Bethany and Ellie have a great time at Ellie's kitchen table talking about the Latte Factor. They crunch numbers when it comes to tiny expenditures and what it would look like to invest that instead.  Chris Browning joins the conversation to talk about Tiny Homes and a recent series he did on his podcast, Popcorn Finance. He discusses the reasons why people move into tiny spaces and some of the hidden expenses when it comes to owning it.  Resources:  Latte Factor Calculator  Emperor Investments The Popcorn Finance on Instagram  Popcorn Finance Podcast

Do you want to earn some extra cash? Today on the show, Tom Drake talks about side-hustling apps people can use to make money. Before he comes in, Bethany and Ellie talk about Bethany's trip to Disney World and her Star Wars 5k experience.  Bethany also offers to send a post card from her coffee subscription. Continuing their conversation from last week, Bethany and Ellie also talk about interview prep and steps you can take to ace any interview.  Tom Drake of Maplemoney.com comes into The Money Millhouse sharing apps to help save money:  Uber (drive people) UberEats (deliver food) AirBnb (rent your house) Turo and Outdoorsy (rent your car/rv) Rover (walk dalks / dogsitting) TheIPKID and SayABC (english tutor) Etsy (turn craft hobby to income) Fiverr (do almost anything) FreeeUP and Upwork (freelance) Zazzle and CafePress (design shirts, mugs) Teachers Pay Teachers (sell lesson plans) Siteground (start a blog) Sell on Amazon (MYQHJ) Resources:  Atlas Coffee Club Maplemoney.com Job Interview Cheat Sheet

Are you self employed and need help with taxes? In this special episode of Drinks with Darbi, Bethany and Ellie talk about taxes when you are self-employed. They talk about setting up a separate tax account so you will be ready when it comes time to pay your taxes. They also talk about automating savings with an app like Digit or Albert, and they also suggest to not skip your quarterly taxes.  Darbi joins the Money Millhouse and they discuss the difference between deductions and write-offs. They talk about keeping expenses organized and what expenses you may not know are tax deductible. They also give several tools and apps that can help when it comes to filing taxes as well as ways to keep track of write-offs.  Bethany and Ellie finish the show discussing deductions and write-offs, but also suggest to double check your tax documents so you aren't paying more or less than you should be.  Resources:  How to Avoid a Huge Tax Bill When You're Self Employedby Carrie Smith Nickelson  Saving Apps:  Digit Albert Freshbooks Expensify Mile IQ Quickbooks self-employed Turbo for self-employed

It's Valentine's Day in August! We revisit the episode from Valentine's Day and enjoy the conversation with Jennifer McDermott again. Join us Sept 2 for brand new episodes and Season 3! Bethany and Ellie have a special episode for Valentines Day! They share inexpensive ways for you to celebrate Valentines Day even if you aren't in a relationship! Bethany also shares how Valentine's Day is not always fun for people (she was also dumped the day before Valentine's Day once).  They welcome Jennifer McDermott, the Consumer Advocate at personal finance comparison website, finder.com. She shares fascinating statistics about Valentine's Day and the money spent not only on the holiday, but specifically on fur-babies as well. 

Join the Money Millhouse for brand new episodes Sept. 2! In the meantime, enjoy this great episode from our archives with Steven M. Hughes of Know Money! Bethany and Ellie meet at Ellie's Kitchen Table after having gone on an inexpensive cruise to Mexico. They go over ways people can save money on travel (specifically cruises). Bethany learns how to pronounce gratuities, and how to book a cruise with shipboard credits when booking a cruise. They also tell you the best time to buy spa services on a cruise and when to buy your excursion. Steven M. Hughes joins the Millhouse discussing the #1 money myth that he things can hold people back in life, especially from a young age. He says that money gives you the ability and options, and that the "lack of money is the root of all evil." He shares about the work he is doing to teach college students about money. He shares the biggest challenge he sees when teaching young adults, and he gives the specific goal he made when he was in college (which was increasing his credit score by 315 points).  Steven answers the question about what Millennials have learned about money from their parents. Bethany shares the difference she sees with Millennials changing jobs more often than the previous generation. Steven says how this could help when done intentionally. They shift gears to discuss credit scores and what he sees in regards to college students. He shares about the mistakes he made in college and what he did to increase his credit score when he graduated.  Steven also addresses the racial divide when it comes to the financial resources available to a household for a black family versus those available to white families. In a study done recently, the average net worth of a white family is $140k where the average for a black family was $11k. Steven works with students of color at colleges and universities with success programs for students learning financial education. Know Money, Steven's company, is actively fighting financial illiteracy in the black community though his programs and events geared to students of color. They just launched the Bank Roll Summit, which will kick off April 3rd in Columbia, South Carolina. Resources: viator.com Groupon Bankroll Summit Know Money Inc

  Brand new episodes coming September 2nd! In the meantime, listen to part two of The Book Within with Steve Laube. Steve Laube joins The Money Millhouse for another episode centered around writing a book, this time they focus on the money side of writing a book. Steve debunks the myth that authors make a lot of money. Before he arrives in the Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie go over The Keys to a Great Proposal from SteveLaube.com, including what points should make up your book proposal when thinking of writing a book. When Steve joins the conversation, he shares how many books he reads both for work and for fun. He debunks the myth that authors make a lot of money, and says writing a book is a tool for expanding your ideas, not a means of making money. Ellie asks what the average advance (money one is paid before the book is published) for people published with a royalty based publisher, where Steve says there is a wide range when it comes to this and it depends on the publisher. He also gives practical examples of how someone can use a book to make money that may not be directly from book sales (i.e. speaking, back of room book sales at events, periodicals and magazines, etc.). Ellie also shares another income stream called Brand Ambassador work, which also lead to media. All of these streams are because of the initial book. They then talk about tax deductions and expenses that authors can count towards their taxes and what writers can forget they can write off (with the reminder to continually check with your tax expert to make sure you are making the best moves when it comes to your taxes and being above the law). Ellie remembers a saying Steve said early in her career is the idea of goodwill coin (16:52), and how people can be branded as “hard to work with.” They also discuss practical ways we can earn goodwill coin by being respectful of people's time and expertise. They also clarify what Ellie meant when Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about “goodwill coin” again. They also talk about ways they each help each other in the space and maintaining goodwill coin when sending emails, especially when it comes to burning bridges or using up all their goodwill coin. They also finish the last few pieces of The Keys to a Great Proposal. Resources: stevelaube.com preditorsandeditors.com

In this special show from the archives, Bethany and Ellie discuss how some people's goal for 2019 is to write a book. Since Ellie has written 15 books, she has a little bit of expertise in this area. Bethany asks if people should write a book because they want to make a lot of money, and Ellie explains why that is a misconception. Bethany explains how she has known their guest since she was 8 years old. Ellie then talks about the “why” someone should write a book, and Bethany explains how she failed her childhood dream of being published at the age of 13. She also talks about the title of a book she wanted to write a few years ago that isn't the best idea for a book title. Steve Laube, literary agent and the president of The Steve Laube Agency, comes into the Millhouse talking abut the unsolicited book proposal Ellie had sent over to his publishing house 20 years ago, and then how they became friends. Ellie asks Steve a very difficult (trick) question, and Bethany asks Steve how long he has been in the business. He explains his journey to becoming a literary agent and founding his own agency. Steve talks about where people start when they want to start writing a book. He also explains what an agent does to help direct their career, and gives valuable resources to give practical help to the writer. Steve talks about a proposal, and the difference between a proposal for a fiction vs. non-fiction book. They also talk about the difference between self-publishing and royalty based (aka traditional) publisher. Steve gives a warning about self-publishing services, and gives a resource that will help you find the right people to help you in the self-publishing world. Bethany and Ellie end the show inviting The Money Millhouse next week for part 2 of writing a book because there is such a wealth of information when it comes to this topic. Ellie discusses what should come first: the publisher or an agent and how all the magic happens at writers conferences. Bethany talks about how conferences fueling the fire of passion and motivation. She also tells the story of their producer/editor, Darbi, and how the investment of a conference lead to a job, and even changed her life. Resources: stevelaube.com preditorsandeditors.com    

Bethany and Ellie start the show talking about Goal Setting and how we should start thinking about 2019's goals right now. Ellie says that 92% of people never achieve their goals, and Bethany says she is apart of the other 8% that has. They discuss how those who accomplish their goals set specific goals that are challenging (but are not too hard), and are passionate about their goals to committed to the end. They also discuss that people who accomplish their goals use feedback to stay on track, and that receiving feedback doesn't mean that you are a terrible person. Instead, feedback helps us get better. Chris Hogan joins the show discussing the importance of investing, and thinking about the future. He is hearing from a lot of people who wish they could go back and do things for themselves in the past. He wants to help people understand that small steps now can give themselves an advantage for down the road. He also gives great tips for having a plan when it comes to money by “giving every dollar a name.” Chris talks about how money will listen, and how we can have the right kind of knowledge to control it. They revisit the “why” of saving and how to respond when life and emergencies happen. If we aren't prepared for emergencies, it can steal your joy, which is why Chris stresses the importance of an Emergency Fund. He walks through what would have happened if Bethany didn't take from her emergency fund a couple months ago, and how it could have lead to more stress. Chris gives practical advice of how we can take our financial pulse. He advises having a plan during the holiday season so we don't have a holiday hangover. Set a holiday budget and assign a dollar amount to each person. When the money is gone, you are done—go home. Chris also gives a sneak peak into his new book, Everyday Millionaire. Chris also gives great advice to couples and discussing money with a spouse, including dreaming together. Resources: Emperor Investments is a female led, online investing platform.  With the help of technology, this platform custom builds you equity portfolios that are designed to help achieve your goals. To learn more and get your first six months of automated investing for free, visit themoneymillhouse.com/emperor. To order Chris Hogan's new book in time for the New Year, visit https://www.chrishogan360.com or find him on Amazon.

    Bethany and Ellie return from a break for their very first show of 2019. They are very excited and optimistic for the New Year, and they share 6 Ways to Beware and Prepare for the New Yearwith The Money Millhouse! Rachel Cruze joins the show discussing New Year's Resolutions and some great ways to be practical about goals and goal setting. They discuss ways people can go about developing better habits, and teaching those habits to their kids as well. Rachel shares how “more is caught than bought” when it comes to teaching kids money. She also says it is important to have tangible, “quick wins” when it comes to anyone's money journey. Ellie talks a little bit about how she wouldn't let her kids borrow on their allowance because it would create bad work habits, and Rachel shares her views on allowances. She also talks about how to teach kids to have ‘skin in the game' by having their kids earn their own money. Bethany tells a story about when she was a little girl and earned half of an American Girl doll and what it meant to her. Resources: 6 Ways to Beware and Prepare for the New Year National Consumer Credit Counseling Service  NFCC Military Family Advisory Network and MilCents

Join the Money Millhouse for one of their favorite episodes of season 2. Be sure to come back September 2 for all new episodes and season 3 of The Money Millhouse! Ellie and Bethany start the show talking about the idea that money can buy happiness. Even though people know money cannot really buy happiness, many people live like it can. Bethany shares techniques she and her husband use when it comes to Bethany's impulse buys, as well as brands Ellie chooses to splurge on. Kiné Corder, a best selling author, international speaker, and psychotherapy specializing in financial therapy, joins The Money Millhouse discussing financial therapy. She shares the designations a financial counsellor must have to help in this area, as well as what qualifies someone to be a financial therapist. Bethany asks about the marriage aspect of this topic, and Kiné explores the past money history and programming everyone has when coming into a marriage. Kiné also explores money personalities/mentality people are prone to, and if people are able to change. She shows Ellie and Bethany techniques people can implement in order to play on strengths in a relationship, including Awareness, “Money Day,” “No Money Day,” and having a Money Challenge or Competition. They end their conversation on the topic of prosperity, and what things can block a prosperity mindset. Resources: Money Mentality Quiz and Video from Kiné Prosperity Report “Love & Money” podcast Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talkingby Susan Cain The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lastsby Gary Chapman

Enjoy a favorite episode of Season 2 with Roger Whitney, AKA the Retirement Answer Man! Stick around till the end for a special behind the scenes look at what it was like recording this episode! Bethany and Ellie have a cup of coffee at Ellie Kay's table discussing the season and how it is Bethany loves being cold this time of year. Bethany and Ellie remember a time when Ellie purchased a red coat in Canada, and how she didn't tell the truth in a certain instance. Ellie and Bethany discuss fears and how it can stop us from doing what we want to do. They talk about things that had scared them recently that they had to do, including Ellie connecting in Istanbul and almost missing her flight. Roger Whitney, The Retirement Answer Man, joins the Millhouse discussing retirement. Ellie challenges Roger to give the answer to retirement in 30 words or less. Roger explains it is important to not check out of life when it comes to Retirement. He encourages Bethany and Ellie to look at it in a new way that may not be traditional. Roger explains why he is excited for the Millennial Generation, and how they are able to change their perspective when it comes to retirement. He gives a practical way that financial advice industry has not caught up to the way we live our lives right now. He gives the two most important investments we could make in our future that could open up a lot of flexibility. They also talk about student loan debt and different ways to invest in our skills. Bethany asks if traditional saving for retirement is still important, and Roger gives reasons why we shouldn't ignore that. Resources: Managing Your Lifestyle Workbook

Be sure to stick around after this special episode to hear the behind the scenes look with The Money Millhouse team!  Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about some of the great deals they received from the Orlando Outlets, which they explain are things they splurged on but stayed in their budget. They give the secret to having name brands like Coach, but not paying Coach prices. They then magically transport to the FinCon18 USAA Podcasting booth in Orlando, where they talk to Cristin Gray from USAA. With Cristin, they discuss Money Movement, which is moving money from one account to another account, wether it is a friend, a merchant, buying a home, etc. Cristin helps Bethany and Ellie with a ‘hypothetical ' situation of moving money from person to person, as well as mobile pay options. Bethany remembers how she was able to pay for a transaction with her Apple Watch, and Cristin explains what USAA is doing to keep up with the digital capabilities that are emerging. She also explains data aggregation and how USAA's members are able to securely interact with their accounts. They talk about ways they keep their members money safe, as well as the requirements it takes to be a USAA member (including how many civilians are a part of that community).  Bethany and Ellie return to The Money Millhouse to talk about their USAA podcast booth experience from FinCon18, as well as sharing their total savings from the shopping spree they talked about earlier. They share their love for USAA and the reasons why they are members for life. They also talk about managing next steps and what they are doing to organize their post conference opportunities—including how long to wait before contacting people they have met at a conference. Bethany talks about the things she is working on post-FinCon, and explains what a one-sheet is. They discuss the importance of a debrief and an action sheet after a big event, and both Bethany and Ellie reveal their top 3 action items they are working on post-FinCon. Resources: Zelle Service and Ink featuring 3 of Ellie's Sons