The Struggle is Real with Justin Peters

I love playing with compound interest calculators and one equation I'm routinely calculating is the number of years until I reach financial independence. Using the 4% rule, I multiply my living expenses by 25 to get my FIRE number. I use that, my current net worth and various contribution rates to predict when I'll reach FI.But then I started thinking about this equation. Instead of using my current expenses should I use an inflation-adjusted number that would more realistically match my future expenses? Also, now I'm second-guessing my average return rate. Does that include inflation or should I be adjusting that rate too?All of a sudden, I'm a little turned around. Not knowing if the number in front of me is an undershot or overshot. I don't want to be so far off the mark that my calculation isn't giving me a realistic path to financial independence.So what is the right way to account for inflation whenever running our numbers? Luckily Jesse Cramer is back so tell us the right way to go about this calculation.Jesse has a way of simplifying topics. He is routinely doing this through his podcast, The Best Interest. Jesse takes complex financial topics and puts them into layman's terms. Jesse is so good at doing this that this is the 3rd time I've invited him on The Struggle is Real.In this episode, we get straight into the topic of inflation and answer questions like why products get more expensive over time, 2 ways to correctly calculate your FI number, and how to protect your portfolio from inflation.So if you're ready for that, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with TSIR's most frequented guest (for now)...Jesse Cramer.Key Takeaways:How products and services get more expensive over timeHow inflation is measured2 ways to calculate your FI number without mistakenly leaving out or double counting inflationDoes the 4% rule account for inflation?How to inflation protect your portfolioHow concerned a 20-something should be about inflation whenever retirement planningMentions:Accounting for Inflation in Retirement and FIRE Planning: https://bestinterest.blog/accounting-for-inflation-in-retirement-and-fire-planning/More of Jesse:Podcast: https://bestinterest.blog/the-best-interest-podcast/Blog: https://bestinterest.blog/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

As someone pursuing early financial independence, it is almost guaranteed that over time, a lot of your wealth will come from investment growth but as we all know, it takes money to make money.The first $100,000 of your net worth is a lot of hard work: you need to make income, live below your means, and aggressively save. And through all of this, your career will be the backbone of this process.Improving the skills that will make you more valuable is an important journey throughout your 20s. If you put effort in the right places, you will quickly become a high performer and be paid accordingly.So with that in mind, what should you be focusing on? There are technical skills that will be in high demand in the future (think AI, cybersecurity, logistics) but these are industry-specific. There are also a set of skills that no matter what career path you pursue, will always pay dividends.Today, I'll be talking about the latter with Dave Lamont. Dave knows a thing or two about this subject as he's built an incredible career for himself and not slowing down anytime soon. Dave is the CEO of Renfrew Business Group and president of Renfrew Chrysler, Lloydminster Nissan, and Royalty RV. In this episode, Dave shares 6 essential skills that led him to his success with the hope that you'll find career success as well no matter how you define that.So let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with former hockey player, car enthusiast, and Author of Crank It!...Dave Lamont.Key Takeaways:Learning work ethic through role modelsHow hard work creates luckSimply strategies for effectively managing your timeHow to build rapport with colleagues twice your ageThe importance of learningEmbodying true confidenceWhy looking out for others will pay offMore of Dave:Crank It! A Playbook for Succeeding in Business and Life: https://www.amazon.com/Crank-Playbook-Succeeding-Business-Life-ebook/dp/B0CBL2J76JMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

You've been pouring into your personal finance education and you're starting to feel more empowered to manage your investments. You might have even played around with online calculators and realized how much that 1% advisor fee is really costing you. But years ago, when you were less confident and didn't know better, you hired someone to help you with this. They grew into someone you call a friend and although you know the math and feel capable of handling your investments on your own now, you're having difficulty cutting ties.It's not easy to break up with someone especially if they have treated you well, answered your phone calls, and have been sending you an annual Christmas card.But I help you with the hard things and it's time. With this in mind, how can we make this a smooth process, set ourselves up for success, and respectfully and professionally break up with our financial advisor? Well, that's today's conversation.To help me unpack this topic, I invited on Tess Waresmith. Tess is a financial coach that helps people feel confident with investing. But this wasn't always the case. After socking away a ton of money working on cruise ships after she graduated, Tess hired a financial advisor to help her turn her savings into real wealth. But after some bad advice and other financial mishaps, Tess lost $80,000 and had to reset. Through a lot of self-education, she learned how to invest on her own through simple, yet effective methods.In this episode, Tess shares the math behind the real cost of a financial advisor. She shares an easy step-by-step process for breaking up with your advisor and how to handle objections if they push back. We also talk about when it might be appropriate to hire help and who might be the right person for that situation.Let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the aerial aerobatic and high diving financial coach…Tess Waresmith.Key Takeaways:How much a 1% advisor fee costs you over 40 yearsHow to compare your advisor's performance against the averageA step-by-step process for breaking up with your advisorResponding to objections from your advisorFinancial situations that might require professional help and who to hireSimple definitions of common financial jargonMentions:Free Guide: 26 need-to-know investing terms: https://www.moneyconfidentcoach.com/optin1656350743725More of Tess:IG: WealthWithTess (https://www.instagram.com/wealthwithtess/)More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Dating is expensive. There is no way to sugarcoat it. Between dinner, drinks, parking, entertainment, and more…the costs quickly add up. I was reading an article and they surveyed 2,000 Americans to find out the average person has spent $3,025 over the last year on dating. That's a little more than $250 a month and it didn't include indirect costs like new clothes, make-up, and haircuts.Even as someone in a long-term relationship where Gaby and I have similar financial goals, and the advantage of using coupons and hitting happy hours without social ridicule, we still spend a fair amount on dates.It is because creating shared memories is important to us…but so is financial independence. So whenever it comes to dating, how can we maximize fun without breaking the bank? Well, that's what I have in store for you today.My friend Samantha Vigneau and I created a list of 5 affordable and fun date ideas. My challenge to her was each of these ideas had to be less than $50 for two people and she hit the mark with many ideas being little to no money at all.This was a fun episode to make. I know many of us are dating right now let it be you're looking for someone or in a relationship and going out and making memories together is important. So how do we find the balance between that and our financial goals? This episode will answer that.I hope you enjoy my conversation with the Host of Single Status…Samantha VigneauKey Takeaways:Elements of bad first date ideas5 affordable yet fun date ideasHow do you discuss money with a new romantic interest?Signs to look for to understand someone's money valuesWhat to do if you feel like you're falling behind in lifeMore of Samantha:Website: https://www.singlestatuspodcast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthavigneau/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

If you're interested in early retirement, you have to consider how you will afford life when a paycheck isn't hitting your bank account every other Friday. Of course, my favorite method is investing in the stock market. This provides dividend income and the ability to sell your stocks when you need to but there is another obvious method out there - real estate.I don't know how we've gone 135 episodes without extensively discussing investing in real estate. It may be because it isn't something I currently participate in but it has my attention. When I think about my draw-down method, there is hesitation on what I would do if I felt like we were in a down market and I'm wondering if rental income would give me much-needed stability through my early FI years.So I'm putting some effort into learning about it and if you do the same, there is one educator you will likely run into: Dustin Heiner. Dustin is the Host of Master Passive Income and is on a quest to help one million people get started investing in real estate. He is of course a real estate investor himself and at the age of 37, was able to quit his job because he had enough passive income from his real estate investments.In this episode, we discuss three common mistakes that Dustin wants you to know about before you buy your first property. Our goal in this conversation is to prevent you from making mistakes that Dustin had to learn the hard way early on.So if you're interested in real estate investing, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the father of 5 and successfully unemployed…Dustin Heiner.Key Takeaways:What you should do first before worrying about finding or financing your first propertyRules you can set in place to make your real estate business more passiveHow to estimate the cost of common real estate expensesOne rule to put in place so your property makes you money no matter what happens with the property valueHow to negotiate your offerHow to create passive income through real estateMentions:Free Course: https://masterpassiveincome.com/freecourse/More of Dustin:Website: https://masterpassiveincome.com/dustin-heinerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedustinheiner/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Even with an aggressive savings rate, reaching financial independence will take 10 to 15 years assuming the market plays nice with you. Stack on paying off debts and saving for large purchases like a wedding, a new car, or your first home, we can see how this is going to be an extended journey.Throughout that journey, how do we stay committed and follow through with our goals?This is not an easy answer, especially in the age of instant gratification and social media.So I turned to my friend Matt Worthington who has followed through with many impressive goals. When he started college, he committed to graduating debt-free. This required working multiple jobs, saying no to distractions, and an unhealthy amount of frugality but he made it happen. Then he wrote a book about it which is a feat in itself. Finally, over the last year, he's accomplished several physical challenges including completing a half-ironman, finishing 75 hard, and running an ultra marathon, which required a focused training plan and a lot of mental toughness.It is easy to write off Matt as someone born with these gifts but I promise you that wasn't the case. Don't worry, we'll get into that story.My hope with this episode is you pull out inspiration to continue following through with your commitments, financial goals, or anything you have your mind set on right now.So if you're looking for that inspiration, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Mister Reinvention himself…Matt Worthington.Key Takeaways:Creating the belief that you can changeFollowing through with your commitments even when they get hard or you hit an obstacleHow to cultivate discipleSurrounding yourself with the right peopleGetting creatively thrifty More of Matt:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matt_worthington/Riser Network: https://www.risernation.org/Riser Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6WWt0CNuhVg5HSyKlEERWf?si=ix0gHEjFT72OXAKZcWVN3w&utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree&nd=1&dlsi=3f4d5462c135468cUltra Productive: https://www.amazon.com/Ultra-Productive-Graduating-Debt-Free-Getting/dp/1946277835More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

When I say the word frugal, what comes to mind?Do you think of your penny-pitching sibling? Or your coupon-clipping aunt? Your co-worker that always brings their lunch? The reality is, frugal means something different to everyone.Frugality is a spectrum, and I believe it can be extremely beneficial to live your 20s with a healthy amount of frugality. Split rent with roommates. Shop at value-based stores. Avoid overspending on luxuries like new cars or fancy clothes. Winning these battles early on can pay dividends, literally and metaphorically, down the road.But frugality can go too far. Your 20s aren't the time to deprive yourself of everything at the expense of saving money.So how do we find that balance? What are some signals that we've gone too far? And what can we be doing now so we don't have to worry about frugality so much in the future?Joel Larsgaard, Co-Host of How to Money, will be answering those questions today. Joel is a recovering frugalite. After experiencing his parents going bankrupt when he was 12, he vowed not to let money impact him in the same way. In his 20s, he worked two jobs, used his bike as a primary source of transportation, and scoured the internet for the best deals. As Joel entered his 30s, he realized he might have taken frugality a little too far. At times, being frugal tested his relationship with his wife and had him make short-sided decisions that might be considered cheap versus frugal. Joel will admit that he doesn't have it all figured out now but I can tell he's found a much healthier balance today. He still loves riding his bike but works less and isn't afraid to spend money on quality items he loves.I enjoyed my conversation with Joel because I can see myself following in his footsteps. I can often get lost in the bigger picture of financial independence. FI is not a number but instead, the flexibility to reimagine what life could look like.So if you're ready to experience what life could look like, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the craft beer lover and co-host of How to Money…Joel Larsgaard.Key Takeaways:A case for frugality: frugality gives you optionsDefining frugal (and when frugal becomes cheap)Frugal strategies for saving lots of money in your 20sThe diminishing returns of frugalityFrugality isn't the only tool to use in order to reach FIFinding balance by identifying your craft beer equivalentMentions:HTM Money Mission Statement: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IhrgSguUq7A3-5OoqF8-0XaX65M2ixyc/viewMore of Joel:Website: https://www.howtomoney.com/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

You're a top performer at work. Your manager routinely praises you and you've been taking on more responsibilities as your team and your company grows. With all of these positive indicators, a thought has been in the back of your mind - “I deserve a raise.” Those 2 to 3% increases you've received the last couple of years aren't making a major difference to your financial situation let alone keeping up with inflation.Even with this information though, you haven't gotten the courage to talk to your manager. Maybe your company is going through a difficult period or you have a great relationship with your manager and you're afraid this conversation would add some tension or awkwardness.So what are you going to do?This episode is going to kick off with my friend Andrew Giancola breaking down some of the math behind why you can't continue to ignore this problem. I'll let him share the details but essentially, negotiating a raise every few years will make a drastic impact on your earning power. We are talking mid-6 figures or more!This can't be ignored…but it also needs to be handled professionally. Busting into your manager's office demanding a raise because you're fed up with being underpaid isn't the solution either. So once again, what are you going to do?The good news is you don't have to answer that question because Andrew will do it for you. Andrew Giancola hosts The Personal Finance Podcast, where he helps listeners discover how to easily save, invest, and grow their money to build generational wealth. One of Andrew's favorite topics to discuss is how to ask for a raise because he knows how impactful yet sensitive it can be.In this episode, we are going to walk through his step-by-step process of asking for a raise including initiating the conversation, proving your worth, making the ask, and getting a yes. I love his system because it is built around intentional communication and it is going to make it easy for someone that is nervous to approach their manager. I also think his step-by-step process won't leave you looking like someone ungrateful but instead, treated like a professional that knows their worth.If you're interested in making more money and getting on the path to early financial independence make sure to hit the follow button because we will be covering both of those topics extensively this year.Alright, I hope you enjoy my conversation with…the man who went from living paycheck to paycheck to becoming a millionaire by 32…Andrew Giancola.Key Takeaways:How a small raise compounds into a 7-figure accumulationWhen to start the conversation about a raiseScript for opening the conversation with your managerHow to demonstrate your value during the processAvoiding an awkward conversation with your managerHow to make it so easy they have to say yesCommon objections and how to handle themWhat to do if your manager or company says noHow to ask for a raise when you work from homeMentions:Asking for a Raise E-Book: https://mastermoney.co/get-that-raise-ebook/More of Andrew:Website: https://mastermoney.co/Podcast: https://mastermoney.co/podcast/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at

One of the keys to building wealth is increasing your income. Most 20-somethings don't have a savings problem, they have an income problem.You're trying to pay off student loans, graduate from a college lifestyle, and invest for their future all while working with an entry-level salary. While I believe the fastest way to increase your income is focusing on your primary source of income, aka being a top performer at work and negotiating salary increases because of that, I'm also a fan of rolling up your sleeves and hustling to make some additional income on the side.Not only is side hustling a great way to make some extra cash to deploy against whatever financial goals you have right now, it is also a great way to learn about business, develop additional skills, explore other career paths, and most importantly, learn how to independently make money.So with all of this in mind, I invited my friend Genesis Hinckley on the podcast to discuss side hustles. Know as genuinelygenesis on Instagram and TikTok, Genesis has been hustling since she was a kid selling coconut popsicles on the side of the road in Bolivia. Growing up low-income, she learned firsthand how to turn her hard work into cash. Now in her 20s, she's graduated from selling popsicles to working in big tech full-time but she's still hustling on the side, growing a real-estate empire and content business.In this conversation, Genesis and I are going to answer a ton of questions about side hustles including whether are side hustles even worth it, how to make time for your side hustle, how to convert this hard work now into passive income in the future, and most importantly, ideas for your first side hustle.What should I do is always the biggest question I get when discussing side hustles. So aside from some of the side hustles Genesis discusses in this episode, here are 5 other ideas you can consider for your 1st side hustle:Retail arbitrage: find undervalued products in one market and sell them in another. My personal favorite is garage sales. I find underpriced items at local garage sales and resell them on Facebook Marketplace.Deliver food and groceries: Popular apps like Grubhub, Doordash, and Instacart have made it easy to find this kind of work and fit it into your schedule. Plus you don't have to interact with people.Get paid for your creative talents: if you learned a particular skillset through your day job or a hobby such as graphic design, writing, or voice-over work, you can get paid to help other people with the same service through sites like Fiverr and UpWork.Offer lessons: are you well-versed in a musical instrument or a sport? You can put that knowledge to use and teach other people to play.Sell baked goods: people love cakes, cookies, and pies. If you're good at baking, you could put your talents to use. You can start with friends and family and expand to farmers' markets over time.This is going to be a great episode. One of many that we have planned for this year so if this is the year you get serious about your financial future, hit the follow button because there are a whole lot more of these episodes coming.Let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with…Hispanic-American, first-generation college student, and miss poor but no more…Genesis Hinckley.Key Takeaways:5 side hustle ideas you can start todayWhy side hustles are worth itHow side hustles support your primary careerDefining what a side hustle isPopular side hustles people start firstHow to convert side hustle money into passive incomeThe first step to getting startedUpcoming scarcity mindsetMentions:Side hustle workbook:

It's hard living a frugal life. I'm constantly questioning myself whenever I do things like taking leftovers from a free corporate lunch or doing date night at 4pm so we can get happy hour pricing.Although these frugal practices are simply a journey all 20-somethings need to live through, it's not what I want to be doing forever. But what if I told you you could live it up now while also accomplishing your financial goals like paying off student loans or heavily investing to reach financial independence early? This could be a reality with a strategy called geo-arbitrage.Ignore the fancy words, the concept is simple. Have a steady income in a strong currency, then spend money in a cheaper country.Imagine this, you live in New York City, making $70,000 a year and your monthly costs are $5,100. You work from home and can easily pack up and leave so then you move to Mexico City where your monthly costs are $1,900. That's a difference of $3,200 or over $38,000 a year. A decision like this magnifies your savings rate and allows you to make some serious progress on your financial goals in just a few short years without sacrificing your comforts like a spacious apartment or trying new restaurants a couple of times a week.If you are open to an idea like this but don't have a portable job or you are not ready to move, the same strategy could be applied to reduce your final FI target number. Instead of needing $1.5M dollars maybe you only need $700,000 to retire to a more affordable city.This is what today's guest did. Rachel Covert retired early at the age of 36 from her high-stress job in fashion and decided to move away from expensive NYC. She's been fairly nomadic the last few years but currently resides in Portugal.In this episode, we dive deep into geo-arbitrage. Rachel will share examples of low-cost-of-living cities you could move to, prices you can expect to pay, how to prepare for a change like this, and more. Once again, if you are adventurous and have career flexibility this could be a really powerful strategy you could employ.Let's learn some more about it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the early retiree and world traveler…Rachel Covert.Key Takeaways:What is geo-arbitrage and is it right for me?Best low-cost-of-living cities to considerThe power of the American passportThe impact of time freedomHow to escape golden handcuffsStaying focused on your financial goals and avoiding social pressuresHow to apply geo-arbitrage domesticallyMentions:Compare the cost of living: https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/oaxaca?currency=USDMore of Rachel:Get the Free Lifestyle Spotlight Spreadsheet: https://www.electrifiwealth.com/optin1654273482604Instagram: @rachel_talksmoneyMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

For today's episode, we are going to pause our money content to share a powerful story. With 2024 quickly approaching, I'm sure you're giving thought to some changes you'd love to make in your life. It could be that you want to eat healthier, repair a relationship, feel more confident, tap into your true potential, or anything of the sort.But maybe those ideas come with some discouragement. If it is something you want to change now, it is probably something you've been thinking about changing for a while. I've been there. I make empty promises to myself that “next Monday is whenever I start” and of course, that day comes and for some reason, I'm still acting the same way and not taking action on that promise.2024 is going to be different for both of us though. No more empty promises. We are going to prove to those who have been doubting us, our parents, friends, partners, but most importantly, ourselves.And there is no better story to end our 2023 content with and leave us feeling empowered like my friend Nake Dukes. This guy has gone through a lot from hugely successful business owner to being behind bars after getting caught stealing a car. I don't want to ruin this reinvention story so I'm going to leave it there. This one is a great one to play in the car for everyone to hear out loud as you're headed to Grandma's house for the holiday celebrations. This story originally aired years ago as episode 41 and has been a fan favorite ever since.This is the last episode of 2023. Thanks for an amazing year. I had so much fun creating content for you in 2023 and I'm even more excited about 2024. As a reminder, moving forward we'll be publishing bi-weekly on Wednesdays to make some space for some other projects we have in the works. You'll see our content shift in 2024 with a major focus on money so if this is the year that you are dedicated to taking control of your finances, make sure to hit the subscribe button. I'm working on February content right now and our guest lineup is so incredible so far so you don't want to miss out.Oka, enough teasing. I hope you have an amazing end of your year and happy holidays. Let's get to the interview. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the innate turned author…Nate Dukes.Key Takeaways:How a broken mindset can impact youNate's initial feelings when he found himself in jailThe power of kindnessWhere to find inspiration for personal developmentThe impact of spending time with the right peopleHow to repair the damage of your pastMentions:Pay it forward program: www.youllneverchange.com/payitforwardMore of Nate:Book (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Youll-Never-Change-Create-comeback/dp/057888996X/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3UP25N90ZRNZ9&dchild=1&keywords=you%27ll+never+change+book+nate+dukes&qid=1628715127&sprefix=you%27ll+never+change%2Caps%2C1219&sr=8-2Website: www.youllneverchange.comMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at...

I've noticed that New Year's resolutions have been taking some heat lately. I get it, it is totally illogical that a single predetermined day is chosen for everyone to start a major life change and by February, most of us have given up on our grand changes and retreated back to our normal lives.But there is something about a fresh calendar year that gives me hope and naturally makes me prioritize the changes that I've been putting off. I think with intentionality and some realistic level setting, New Year's resolutions don't have to be something you feel guilty about by February.But what do I mean when I say intentional and realistic level setting? Have you heard the quote, “Most people overestimate what they can do in a year and underestimate what they can do in a decade?”Well, that summarizes why New Year's resolutions get their bad rep. We set unrealistic expectations - to completely reinvent our career path, pay off 6-figures in student loans, or to go from super spender to super saver. These goals are just impractical - at least in a short timeline such as a year.Here is the thing - you don't need to solve all of your money problems in one year. You just need to point the sail in the right direction. So what would be more practical New Year's resolutions related to money?Well, that's what we are going to talk about today. Here are 4 realistic financial goals that if accomplished in 2024 will set you up for a decade of success.Key Takeaways:How to accomplish your 2024 New Years' resolutions4 realistic money goals you can set for yourselfHow to create a simple budget to manage your spendingA simple side hustle that you can start this weekendHow to save up for your first emergency fundThe power of compound interestMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I've always dreamt about becoming a dad. I know little moments like teaching them the ABCs, running them to soccer practice, or helping them pick out their prom outfits are going to bring me a lot of joy. I'm even ready for the challenging moments like sleepless nights, pre-teen outbursts, and difficult “growing up” conversations.One thing that I'm not sure I'm ready for is the cost of children. I was reading a survey and apparently, the average cost of raising a kid from 0 to 18 years old in the United States is $237,000. And I'm not quite sure I would be on the low end of the average.I agree with Maya Corbic, our guest today, that you can't put a price on the love that you'll have for your child but the financial impact has to at least be considered in your decision-making progress.How much does a pregnancy cost? What financial milestones should I accomplish before having a child? Can I realistically afford to take care of a child right now?These are all questions that will be answered in today's episode. As I mentioned, we'll be talking to Maya Corbic. She is the creator behind the popular Instagram page teach.kids.money where she is helping parents raise financially savvy children. She is also the author of “From Piggy Bank to Stocks: The Ultimate Guide for a Young Investor” where she introduces children (and honestly parents) to the exciting world of investing.This is a great episode for anyone considering parenthood and also soon-to-be parents as we discuss a lot of early childhood cost savings tips.Let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the 1st gen immigrant, CPA, and energetic mom of 2…Maya Corbic.Key Takeaways:The average cost of raising a childFinancial milestones to consider hitting before becoming a parentFinancial to-dos to prepare for an addition to your familyHow to reduce your child-related expenses and find great dealsHow to invest in your children's education through a 529 accountThe sneaky benefits of a custodial accountThe importance of aligning your family and financial valuesMore of Maya:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teach.kids.money/From Piggy Bank to Stocks: https://dinariiwealthykidsclub.lpages.co/from-piggy-banks-to-stocks/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

We are closing up on 2023 and I thought it would make for a fun episode to recap some of the top financial news headlines from the year.Being a fellow money nerd, this year provided many interesting headlines that were fun to follow and watch play out. And looking back at it all, these stories reminded me of an important lesson that I'll share at the end of this episode.Key Takeaways:The Federal Reserve continues its interest rate hikesThe new Federal borrowing benchmarkThe impact of the global banking crisisReflecting back on the debt ceiling deadlockHow the debt ceiling worksAre tech industry layoffs behind us?What you can do when faced with negative news?Should I change my investing approach in 2024?Mentions:The Best Interest (Does the Debt Ceiling Affect Your Finances? - E57): https://pod.link/1553180943/episode/697707e884c01785b397166817ac6d91More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Today we dive deep into a universal struggle that affects us all: the comparison trap. In a world fueled by social media highlights and curated success stories, it's easy to find ourselves measuring our worth against others.This happens to me all of the time. I see someone else's life: the promotion, the new house, a fancy vacation, their business success…and start frantically wondering why I don't have that yet. Setting aside dismissing my own successes, never once did I stop and think…is that something I actually want?With the highlight reels and the constant moving of our own goalposts, it is easy to see how our definition of success would start to get muddy. We slip into allowing others to define it for us and fall back into the never-ending loop of the comparison trap.It's time to take back control, use comparison as inspiration, not envy, and define success on our own terms. To help us do that is my friend Hayley Dawson, Founder of The Blocks.Hayley and I immediately connected over many of our shared interests including unpacking the unique struggles of today's 20-somethings. On top of overcoming the Comparison Trap, we discuss why your goals aren't timebound to your 20s, why quitting should be celebrated, and how to make decisions based on what matters to you.Key Takeaways:Today's unique struggles of people in their 20sHow social media has exasperated comparison and self-doubt5 powerful ideas for overcoming the Comparison TrapHow to change jealousy and envy into inspirationYour dreams don't have deadlinesDefining success on your own termsThe false definition of successWhy quitting should be celebratedHow to make up your own mindMentions:Tenants: The People on the Frontline of Britain's Housing Emergency by Vicky Spratt (https://www.amazon.com/Tenants-Frontline-Britains-Housing-Emergency-ebook/dp/B094DTJLZR)More of Hayley:Instagram: @_theblocksMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

The holiday season is in full swing and I'm so excited to spend the next month celebrating with friends and family. With all of the parties and get-togethers, it will be 2024 before we know it. But before we say goodbye to 2023, I have a few things I want you to check off your to-do list.In today's episode, I'm going to give you a financial checklist of 8 tasks you may want to consider doing by Dec. 31 to tidy up your finances. Don't worry, all of these tasks take 30 minutes or less so you can get back to enjoying the holidays.So if you're ready to set yourself up for financial success in 2024, let's get into the 8 tasks on the end-of-the-year financial checklist.Key Takeaways:8 easy and essential year-end tasks to completeReviewing your retirement accounts and adding additional contributions where you canRebalancing your assets to stay aligned with your investment strategyCreating a debt payoff plan for 2024Conduct a year-end tax review to maximize your savingsApplying tax loss harvesting to offset capital gainsCompleting a Roth conversion to take advantage of a low effective tax rateReviewing your budget and finding areas to cut costsWhere to get your free credit report and a simple task to improve your credit scoreMentions:www.annualcreditreport.comMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I love big, life changes…said absolutely no one ever.Significant life changes like moving out of your hometown, changing career paths, or ending a significant relationship are terrifying even if you know it is what you should do. It takes proper planning and a lot of courage to follow through with these major milestones.These decisions have never come easy to me. I was terrified to quit my first job. It took me over 6 months to pull the trigger on moving out of my hometown. And I don't even want to talk about the countless relationships that drug on because I didn't have the courage to end them.At the end of the day, they were all the right decisions. The only thing I regret is not making those decisions sooner. I needed some encouragement from my friend and today's guest Kay Cote.Kay knows a thing or two about change. Growing up outside of Fargo, North Dakota, she's learned to embrace these big life decisions. She's lived in South Africa temporarily, tried RV life, quit her corporate job to become an entrepreneur, relocated to Austin, and most recently, decided to take a chance on a career change by jumping into the music industry.Through Kay's story and her PIVOT method, by the end of this episode, we'll be feeling equipped to say yes to that hard decision and embrace the change that comes with it.So if you're ready for that, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the minimalist, storm-chasing fanatic, and shuffle dance queen…Kay Cote.Key Takeaways:Building the courage to move out of your hometownCommunicate without verbal languageThe benefits of moving to a new city or countryBreaking out of the mundaneBuilding confidence and independence by movingHow to use the PIVOT method when thinking through major changesHow to get more opportunities by staying open-mindedUsing reflection to figure out what you want to do with your careerNothing in this life is permanentMore of Kay:Website: www.kaycote.comInstagram: thekaycoteMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Do you currently feel like you're stagnant in your career? Like you haven't learned a lot lately and are living the same work day over and over?Or maybe you want to expedite your professional growth as you're looking to take the next step?Well, this is the episode for you because we are going to be talking about how starting a side project can solve these feelings and 8 ideas for projects that you can start today.Key Takeaways:3 reasons why side projects are helpfulUsing side projects to foster learningBuilding a network through your side projectFinding a sense of identity outside of your 9-to-58 ideas for side projects you can start todayMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

What kind of impact would it have on your career if you could be mentored by Tim Ferriss, Brene Brown, Cal Newport, Oprah Winfrey, Les Brown, Ryan Holliday, James Clear, and Carol Dweck?This is a handful of the top thinkers from the last decade and the great news is, we can receive their mentorship.No, unfortunately, they don't have a special lottery program where you can enter to win a free mentoring session but they do have something even better, a book.Yes, all of these top thinkers are also authors and they've condensed the knowledge they've gained from decades of experience into an organized format that costs less than $20 even free if you're savvy about it.Today we are talking about the power of books. My friend Nick Hutchison from BookThinkers is going to teach us how to boost your career through effective reading. Nick and I get into all kinds of reading techniques like note-taking strategies, how to read faster, finding time to read, and when to stop reading a book that isn't serving you.If you're ready to take your career and life to the next level by reading impactful books, then this episode is for you.I hope you enjoy my conversation with the creator of BookThinkers a massive online community of book lovers and the author of the newly minted book, Rise of the Reader…Nick Hutchison.Key Takeaways:How to make time to prioritize reading booksOne easy shift that will allow you to read 26 books in a yearHow to get access to books for freeThe importance of reading wide when you first start readingWhy it is critical to set an intention before reading a bookNote-taking strategies to maximize retentionShort-hand note-taking strategiesHow to read fasterA mathematical framework for deciding when to stop reading a bookMentions:$100M Offers: How To Make Offers So Good People Feel Stupid Saying No (https://www.amazon.com/100M-Offers-People-Stupid-Saying/dp/1737475731)More of Nick:Personalized Book recommendation: DM Nick at www.instagram.com/bookthinkersBuy the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/c9dE0lnLearn more about Nick: www.nickhutch.comLearn more about BookThinkers: www.bookthinkers.comMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

In this current series, we've been deep-diving into blueprints for how you can take control of and accelerate your career with various professional growth strategies.Assembling a personal board of advisors and reading books are amazing avenues for taking steps forward in your career but we also want to be playing defense and ensuring we aren't taking any steps backward.We don't want to be putting all of this hard work in only to be paddling upstream. Over the first decade of my career, I've noticed 3 career-killing habits that can set young professionals back regardless of their talents.If you want to ensure that you aren't slipping into one of these habits and what to do if so, well, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:The line between arrogance and confidenceSpecific examples of arrogance in the workplaceWhat to do if you find yourself slipping into the habit of arroganceHow complacency can flat-line your careerRecent trends show concerns about complacency in the workplaceHow to break out of complacencyWhy a negative attitude at work will isolate youHow to correct negativity and become a coworker people like to be around againMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Have you heard of this concept before? A personal board of advisors. I think it is kind of interesting.Many companies have a board of directors who help advise and guide them on key decisions. Why shouldn't we have a similar group to rely on?Especially as early career professionals, we face many critical questions about career pivots, job opportunities, work-life balance, purpose, leadership moments, and more.When I started thinking about it, assembling a personal board of advisors is a must for high-performing professionals. We can't do this all alone. We need guidance and support from a diverse group of professionals.But I have so many questions about how to actually execute this concept. Who should be on my board? How do I ask them? How often do we meet? How do I make sure it is meaningful for my board members too?So I invited my friend Pete Schramm to the podcast to tell us how to assemble a personal board of advisors and to get all of our questions answered.Pete is the CEO and Founder of Latitude, a software company focused on employee connection, and the author of Pathfinders, Navigating Your Career Map with a Personal Board of Advisors.This is a really powerful concept so I am hoping you take what you learn today and run with it.Key Takeaways:How a personal board of advisors differs from a group of mentorsHow a personal board of advisors can help guide you through a career transition10 different seats and functions you can recruit for your personal board of advisorsSMARTY goalsWhy one individual shouldn't be responsible for multiple seatsHow often do we meet with our personal board of advisorsHow to ask someone to be on your personal board of advisorsPre-qualifying questions to make sure someone is a good fit for your boardHow to get an easy yes from a potential board memberWhat's included in your career mapHow you can add value to your board membersMentions:Episode 108: 7 Local Events Where You'll Meet Your Next Boss, Mentor, or Business Partner www.tsirpodcast.com/108More of Pete:Book: Pathfinders, Navigating Your Career Map with a Personal Board of AdvisorsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-schramm-pmp/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

We are kicking off a new series called “Your Map to Professional Growth.” The goal of this series is to give you ideas for how you can take ownership of your career. Each episode will center around a different blueprint for growing professionally.But all of these tools are useless, just like a map, if you don't know where you want to go.With that in mind, it seems fitting to kick off this series with a conversation about setting professional goals for yourself. In particular, there are 3 types of goals that we are discussing to help you give clarity to your career and define your Northstar.Having a sense of your professional goals and what you want from your career, at least in the near term future, is going to give you a starting place when implementing the strategies that we will be talking about in the rest of this series.So if you're ready to get serious about your professional growth, understand the map ahead, and pick a direction that is going to get you excited, let's get into it.Key Takeaways:3 types of professionals goals to set for yourself4 questions to ask yourself to decide what skills you need to focus onDeciding on the next stop of your career pathPutting numbers to your financial targetsMentions:E117 - The Career Conundrum: Follow My Passion or the Money www.tsirpodcast.com/117More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I have to admit, this is one subject in the personal finance space that I don't have much experience with. I'm so impressed with my friends who get free airfare and hotels through credit card points and I think it is time for you and I to do the same.I just get overwhelmed and I'm not really sure where to start. What cards should I have in my wallet? Which card should I use on what? Are cards with annual fees worth it?These questions and more are all going to get answered in today's episode and to give us those answers, I invited my friend Danielle Desir Corbett who is the creator of The Thought Card, a travel and finance blog and podcast.Danielle is quite the expert when it comes to traveling cheaper through credit card hacking. My approach up until this point with credit cards has been pretty elementary. I take my 1% cash back and call it a day but Danielle has me really excited to move up to the next level and start getting more from my credit card provider.I thought this was an excellent capstone episode for our series on Mastering Money at Work. We've covered 401(k)s, asking for a raise, employee perks that can make you money, HSAs, and most recently the passion versus paycheck conundrum. If you missed any of those episodes, download them now so you have something to listen to after this one.Key Takeaways:Why are credit card companies giving away such lucrative dealsThe potential risks of credit cardsCriteria for what credit cards right for youHow to maximize your spending categoriesShould I use a free card or an annual fee card?Danielle's favorite credit cardsAn app that helps you determine which credit card you should be using at checkoutA DIY approach to keeping your credit cards organizedHow to make sure you always get the sign-up bonusEarn and burn mentalityCreative ways to boost your pointsPopular brand partnerships to link your credit card toHow to stretch your PTO to take more vacationsMentions:CardPointers: https://cardpointers.com/Rakuten: https://www.rakuten.com/More of Danielle:Thought Card Blog and Podcast: https://thoughtcard.com/Blog: 7 Easy Ways To Earn Thousands of Points and Miles a YearBlog: 6 Travel Hacking Mistakes To AvoidBook: Traveling With a Full-Time JobBook: Affording Travel: Saving Strategies For Financially Savvy TravelersMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Should my career be driven by passion and purpose or serve as a means of financial stability? At one point or another, you will face this career conundrum. I've thought a lot about whether I should follow a practical career path with a stable income and obvious earning power or take a chance on a path that will be filled with passion and fulfillment but the money and stability aren't quite as obvious.At some point in the first decade of your career, this will probably be a decision that you have to consider.I don't know why it is that some of the most stable and practical careers lack excitement and the thrilling and purposeful choices always come with huge question marks when it comes to money, stability, and freaking health insurance.It would be very easy for me to be the optimist and daydreamer and say go for it. Follow your dreams. You only live once but money and stability are significant factors and your job is only one dimension of your whole life that doesn't have to be optimized for fulfillment.This choice is daunting, if not downright overwhelming. But I'm here to offer some thoughts on which path might be right for you at this current moment or even better, how one might find a balance of passion and practicality.Key Takeaways:6 reasons to choose money over passionLacking passion for your work can come at cost6 reasons to choose passion over moneyWhy passion with no money can add unnecessary financial stress3 approaches to have a career filled with passion and moneyHow your perspective and priorities can change your approach over timeMentions:Passion Or Profit? Crafting A Career That Honors Both (Forbes): https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathymillerperkins/2023/07/26/passion-vs-pragmatism-decoding-the-career-conundrum/?sh=39807bf02d75More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

We often hear about 401Ks and IRAs, two incredible retirement planning tools but what if I told you there was a third, secret retirement account that trumps both of these?Today we are discussing the Health Savings Account, or HSA, and why the HSA is not only a financial game-changer for managing your medical expenses but also a powerful tool to build wealth for your future.This episode is a replay of episode 40 where I interviewed Sean Mullaney Financial Planner, and the voice behind FITaxGuy.com. I needed to recast this episode because it is hard to cover Mastering Money at Work if I don't talk about HSAs.You'll uncover how HSAs offer a triple tax advantage, giving you tax deductions when you contribute, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses.But here's the real kicker: an HSA can become a pseudo-retirement fund by delaying your reimbursements and investing your contributions for the long haul.If you want to learn how to do that along with if you qualify for an HSA, how to keep your expenses organized, and what to do if your company doesn't offer an HSA, well then you're in the right place.Also, note this episode is originally from 2021. All of the information is still relevant and helpful but the HSA contribution limit has increased from $3,600 to $3,850 and increasing to $4,150 in 2024.Alright, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with FI Tax Guy himself…Sean Mullaney.Key Takeaways:What is a HSAHow do you qualify for a HSATax benefits of an HSAIs a HSA my health insurance?Who a HDHP the right for youHow to figure out if your insurance qualifies for a HSAHow to get a FICA tax break when funding your HSAExamples of qualified medical expensesHow to use your HSA as a pseudo-retirement accountThe HSA contribution limit (increased to $3,850 in 2023)How to keep your HSA expenses organizedHow to set up an HSA independently if your employer doesn't offer oneMentions:IRS Publication 502: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdfMore of Sean:www.MullaneyFinancial.comwww.FITaxguy.comMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

So far in the Mastering Money at Work Series, we've discussed 4 steps to setting up your 401(k), which was episode 113, and last week, Jesse Cramer taught us how to ask for a raise.These were two topics that I really wanted to cover because I believe they can be huge game changers for your career-earning power and lifetime take-home pay.This week though, we are going to get a little more…creative and scrappy.We are talking about employee perks and how these seemingly nonchalant offerings can add up to tens of thousands of dollars.These fringe benefits that go beyond normal salaries could include awesome perks like snacks, yoga classes, summer Fridays, flexible hours, company time off for volunteering, and unlimited PTO. The list goes on and on.But today, I'm going to throw at you 9 employee perks that I think you should be aware of they could significantly save or make you money which is of course, what this series is all about.So if that sounds like something you want to learn about, let's get into it.Key Takeaways:9 money-making or saving employee perksFinding win-win-win situations with employee referral bonusesCover your education with tuition reimbursementJumpstart your HSA funds with an employer matchHard work and get recognized through employee achievement awardsMake some commission money by referring clients to your companyGet your gym membership paid for with a wellness stipendSubsize your transportation costs with commuter benefitsFind a great deal through your employee discount catalogMake a bigger impact with employer matching charitable donationsMentions:https://www.tsirpodcast.com/113 - 4 Steps to Setting Up Your 401(k) l E113https://www.tsirpodcast.com/114 - How to Negotiate a Raise l E114 Jesse CramerMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I don't want to steal Jesse's thunder so I won't tell his specific example that he shares, but negotiating a raise early in your career can lead to a 6-figure increase in your lifetime earnings. And that is just one negotiation. By developing your negotiation skills and making a habit of consistently asking for a raise throughout your career, you're bound to outearn a peer who starts at a similar salary by a long shot.But on the flip side, asking for a raise is intimidating. The fear of rejection is real and rejection does hurt. You don't want to say the wrong thing, that makes you appear ungrateful or puts tension in a relationship with your manager. Asking for a raise is a tricky situation.Luckily, in today's episode, Jesse Cramer will be discussing how to ask for a raise in a respectful yet effective way that maximizes your chances of getting what you ask for.Jesse is the voice behind The Best Interest, a popular personal finance blog and podcast. Jesse has first-hand experience with negotiating a raise and understands the feelings that come with it. He's going to give us a strategy for getting the conversation started well in advance of the ask, talk through how to overcome the fear of rejection, and how to respond if told no.Jesse has been a guest on the podcast before and I appreciate how he shares applicable advice, not theoretical nonsense that doesn't actually work in the real world. If you've been wanting to ask for a raise, get ready.Let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the chess savant, fizzy lover, and the man with a voice like butter….Jesse Cramer.Key Takeaways:Why is it even important to ask for a raise? What a small raise early on can compound over a 30-year career.How to start the conversation about a raise 3-6 months in advance of the ask. Building your case for a raise.Your performance might not match your salary positioning. You have to be an advocate for yourself on top of being a great performer.The importance of aligning your role and work with what your manager and company find important.The Commitment Consistency Principle and being clear with your manager about the plan.How to overcome the fear of rejection by defining what rejection really is.How to respond if they say no. Staying positive while making your disappointment clear.Option of last resort = going nuclear. How to decide when to use your final piece of leverage and if it is the right situation for you.Is there a right or wrong time to ask? Some considerations: the fiscal health of the company, layoffs, and interest rate hikes. Making sure you don't come across as tone death.How to advocate for yourself without coming across as a brag or brown noser. The power of staying positive and language to use whenever you're getting stubborn pushback.Creative solutions for other benefits when negotiations can't raise salary.Mentions:Is Investing Still a Smart Choice During this Recession? I'm Feeling Discouraged. | E75 Jesse Cramer: www.tsirpodcast.com/75More of Jesse:Best Interest podcast: https://bestinterest.blog/the-best-interest-podcast/Best Interest blog: https://bestinterest.blog/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at

Starting a new job always comes with a hectic first week of paperwork. More than likely, one of the documents is about investing in your company's 401(k) program.If you grew up in a household like mine, the importance of investing in your 401(k) account was hammered into you but let's say you didn't set up your 401(k) account right away.Maybe the thought of investing for your future seemed like a pipe dream when student loans, car payments, and buying furniture that isn't Grandma's hand-me-down was looming in your mind. Or the process and decisions of setting up a 401(k) account felt intimidating and overwhelming to you.The first point is trickier. Money is typically pretty tight in our 20s as we are building our earning power. I totally understand why prioritizing our current needs seems to be more important than our future needs. But hopefully, through this conversation, I can convince you that even starting with a small amount can go a long way.The second point though, being intimidated by the setup process, is something I can help with. This is definitely a topic that should be taught in school, but now having gone through this multiple times, I can assure you that setting up a 401(k) account is an easier process than you think.In today's episode, I am going to walk through 4 steps to setting up your 401(k) account, discuss decisions you are going to have to make, and share some guidance along the way.Key Takeaways:Why 401(k) accounts were established by CongressHow to initiate the setup processThe difference between a Traditional and Roth 401(k)How to choose which account is best for your situationHow to calculate your employer match2023 401(k) employee contribution limitsHow to decide how much to contribute to your 401(k)How to choose an investment option that is right for youHow much should I be paying in investment feesHow to automate investing using target-date index fundsMentions:How to Get Started Investing, the Cost of Actively Managed Funds, and a 2-Step Plan to Retire in 15 Years | E57 Jeremy Schneider - https://tsirpodcast.com/57Hidden Cost of Investing: 3 Common Fees and How to Stop Paying Them | E94 - https://tsirpodcast.com/94More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Today we are concluding our series on how to level up your professional network. We've learned easy ways to find in-person networking events, how to host an easy yet effective networking party, the best practices for virtual networking, and how to make connections at the next business conference you attend.With all of this knowledge, you've been busy meeting new people. But we don't want the payoff from all of this hard work to disappear by this time next year.We need to make sure to stay on top of and continue to strengthen these relationships. We need a process and that's what we are going to be talking about in today's episode.This is a replay from my friend Dan Brodsky podcast, Career Focus. Dan invited me on his show to discuss networking and honestly, we geeked out hard. Come on, what did you expect from me?Dan and I both shared our process for organizing our key professional contacts and the system we use to remind ourselves when an important relationship has gone too long without some attention.I also share a lot of other networking tips, many of which I've shared throughout this series, which is why I feel like this is a perfect capstone episode to the series. I want to make sure we reinforce what we've learned over the last month.Also, go give Dan and his show some love. Career Focus is a new podcast that launched in July and we have very similar missions to equip young professionals with the skills they need to succeed in their careers. If you're looking for more content like that, go follow Career Focus in your podcast player.That's enough from me. I hope you enjoy my conversation with a former St. Louisian now turned Austinite…Dan Brodsky.Key Takeaways:A key element of job satisfaction How to develop your networking skillsHow networking can help youHow introverts can network without fatiguing themselvesThe power of active listeningDo's and dont's of networkingA process to help you stay organized when networkingHow to break the ice when you start a conversation with a strangerHow to politely exit a conversationHow to leave a good impression when virtually networkingFollow-up techniquesWhat to do when you flop at a networking eventThe joy of career serendipityMore of Dan:Listen to Career Focus: https://linktr.ee/danbrodskyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/careerfocuspod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@careerfocuspod?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-brodsky-ms-166314107/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqWfpKnCj0kT-ccSh0vMkQMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

With the calendar turning to fall, conference season is heating up. People are making arrangements and gearing up to attend academic, industry, and professional conferences. Some “volun-told” by their employers, but others, assuming someone like yourself that would listen to a podcast like this, are attending because they're wanting to level up their career.I love attending conferences. I typically plan to attend at least 3 a year. In the spring, I attended a podcast conference called Podcast Movement and this coming fall I'll be at a personal finance creator conference called FinCon along with 2 other conferences on behalf of my 9 to 5.I attend these conferences to learn from the speakers and stay on the pulse of industry changes but the biggest benefit of them all is networking.In such a condensed, short period of time, I meet a lot of amazing people along with seeing some friends from attending similar conferences in years past. I always come home with many collaborations and follow-up conversations that I know will help me with my business and career.After attending a few conferences, I've learned a few things that have really helped me maximize how to meet other people at conferences. I'm not a seasoned vet though but my friend Mark Herschberg is.If that name sounds familiar, that may be because you've heard Mark on the podcast before. In episode 35, Mark came on the show to discuss how to gain clarity with your career path and now he is back on to discuss how to network like a pro at your next conference.In this episode, he shares tips on how to get started networking before the conference even begins, opening lines to break the ice with attendees, how to meet conference VIPs, and so much more. This conversation left me feeling both excited and prepared for my upcoming fall conferences, and if you want to feel the same way, this is the episode for you.So let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the tech founder, shot glass collector, and author of The Career Toolkit…Mark Herschberg.Key Takeaways:How to decide which conference is worth your timeHow to get your manager to say yes to you attending a conferenceHidden negotiation factor: education budgetHow to start networking before the conference even startsOpening lines to break the ice with another attendeeHow to look more invitingIdeas for hosting an event at a conferenceTechniques for politely exiting a conversationHow to meet the conference VIPsAn efficient way to track post-conference action itemsHow to pass along what you learned to your colleaguesMentions:MIT Professor Explains How to Gain Clarity on the Next Steps in Your Career | E35 Mark Herschberg: www.tsirpodcast.com/35The Ultimate Guide to Attending a Conference - Part 1 of 2: https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-attending-a-conference-part-1-of-2The Ultimate Guide to Attending a Conference - Part 2 of 2: https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-attending-a-conference-part-2-of-2What to Say at a Conference or Networking Event:

We all know at least one person that can walk into a room full of strangers and emerge with a group of new friends. They're so good at attracting people, building trust with them, and turning others into fast friends. This is someone that is charismatic, friendly, and great at building instant rapport.Having rapport with someone means you understand each other's feelings and communicate well. This happens over time as you build a relationship with them. The frequency and proximity allow you to establish trust and you slowly get to know them better.But with some people, this happens quicker. Have you ever walked away from a conversation and felt instantly connected to the other person? Maybe meeting them felt natural and easy. It's likely that's because you were able to build rapport quickly.I have no bulletproof method for getting this right a 100% of the time but I have noticed things in myself and others that have really helped. I want to share a couple of ideas and habits that you can put into practice especially when virtually connecting with another person for the first time.Key Takeaways:How online networking is different than in-personWhy building rapport is important10-minute preparation guideUsing video to your advantageHow to make a good first impression with a strong start3 tips for cultivating an amazing conversationThe power of a smileThe art of active listeningHow to share moreReminding yourself that you're worthyMentions:7 Ways to Discover Great In-Person Networking Events Worth Going To: www.tsirpodcast.com/108The Secrets to Throwing a Great Networking Party: www.tsirpodcast.com/110More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

We've all been to one: loud music, people huddled in clicks, and little to no guidance from the host. I'm talking about poorly run networking events. The kind of events that spike the anxiety of us introverts and solo attendees.But nobody wants to throw a bad event. The host wants to make sure everyone is having a good time and leaves having made meaningful connections. The problem is that nobody taught us how to throw a great networking party.That was until Nick Gray wrote The 2-Hour Cocktail Party, a step-by-step handbook that teaches you how to build big relationships by hosting small gatherings.Nick is a firm believer that hosting these simple, lightweight gatherings will accelerate your network. And he's given us the playbook for how to do just that.In this conversation, we cover how to make sure people show up, 4 secrets for hosting a great event, and how to politely kick people out at the end of your party. Nick also gives me an answer for the perfect number of attendees and the best day of the week to host your networking party.And actually, since this recording, I've been to two cocktail parties that used Nick's book to host their event, and they have both been far superior to the typical networking events. But they weren't flashy events with paid bartenders, catering, and a DJ, no they were well-run events and a great use of my time. I met a lot of incredible people and left feeling excited to continue those conversations.If you want to expand your network and know how to throw a simple yet amazing networking event, this is the episode for you.Key Takeaways:Why hosting consistent, small gatherings is the ultimate networking toolNICK: 4 secrets for hosting a great eventThe importance of name tags even when you know everyone at the eventHow to run icebreakers and an easy example to use at your eventWhy you shouldn't host dinner partiesThe perfect number of attendees to haveHow to politely kick people outThe perfect day of the week to host your networking partyNick's recommendation for event-hosting platformsHow to ensure people show up to your partyWhen to send and what to include in your reminder communicationMentions:Nick's event hosting platform recommendations: Partiful (https://partiful.com/) and Mixily (https://www.mixily.com/)More of Nick:The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings: https://www.amazon.com/2-Hour-Cocktail-Party-Relationships-Gatherings-ebook/dp/B0B2KW6T7JTwitter: https://twitter.com/nickgraynewsMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I could make a case that any interaction with someone else could be considered networking. From your friend's parent to the barista who handed you your coffee this morning, anyone could be someone that changes the trajectory of your career.I'm all about embracing some of the serendipity of relationship building, aka networking, but this series is bringing intentionality into this effort. We are going to be talking about purposely meeting people and the ways that you can do that.I don't know about you, but COVID really made me appreciate in-person interactions. I do really like the convenience of virtual networking, but sometimes it feels satisfying to put on some nice clothes, get out in the community, shake some hands, and meet some people in real life.COVID did get me out of practice in this area though and in the meantime, I moved cities and started working virtually so I lost touch with many of the in-person groups I was a part of.I'm ready for that to change and I've created a list of 7 ways to find in-person networking events.In today's episode, I am going to share that list with you with the goal of getting you excited and inspired to get back out there and check out some events in your local community. Don't take this episode as a checklist but more as a menu. Pick one or two pathways that you feel drawn to. Each of these will provide many options for events that will fit what you're looking for.Key Takeaways:The importance of networkingPopular event sites to find networking opportunitiesLocal community organizations that might be hosting in-person events near youHow you can tap into your alma mater networkHow to network and support a cause at the same timeHow to use LinkedIn and Facebook to find networking eventsWhat are YP groups and how to affordably join themHow to ask friends and colleagues about networking eventsIt's normal to be nervous when attending in-person eventsMentions:Email Management Tips for Young Professionals Overwhelmed by a Cluttered Inbox | E102: www.tsipodcast.com/1023 Tips for Managing Your Work Calendar Like a Pro | E104: www.tsirpodcast.com/104A Guide to Creating a To-Do List That Actually Works | E106: www.tsirpodcast.com/106More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I've never felt like I've had style. Honestly, I've always felt a little intimidated and lost when it comes to fashion.With that in mind, I didn't put a lot of emphasis on it. I opted for safe and affordable options versus clothes that I felt comfortable and confident in. I don't think that's entirely the wrong perspective. Personal style isn't something that everyone cares about but I do want to make a case for it.For better or worse, your outward appearance does say something about you. It impacts first expressions and is an extension of your personality. Most importantly, it impacts how you feel about yourself. The right piece of clothes at the right moment can help me break out of my shyness, feel more confident, and channel the energy I want to display.All of this is especially true when it comes to dressing for work, a place where first impressions, outward appearance, charisma, and confidence play a huge part in success and career growth.So let's say you decided this is important and you want to put some focus on it, how do you go about finding your personal style? Well, I don't have the answer for you but Parke Ballantine does. They are a creative director, fashion stylist, and model. I met Parke through my girlfriend Gaby after they did a stunning photoshoot together and luckily they were nice enough to share some fashion advice with us.In this conversation, we talk about how to get started if you just aren't sure what your personal style is. Parke shares styling tips like the rule of thirds, how to incorporate color, and how to be fashion-forward when it's hot outside. We also have an important conversation about the balance of sustainability and affordability.Key Takeaways:Where to start if you aren't sure what your personal style isApplying the rule of thirds to fashionHow to incorporate color into your wardrobeHow to use accessories as your statement piecesHow to be fashion-forward in the summer heatBalancing sustainability, affordability, and being fashion-forwardWhere to donate or swap your clothesThe power of peopleMore of Parke:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parke.ballantine/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

To-do lists help you remember what needs to get done, they create order, they set priorities, they relieve stress, they help you delegate, and they track your work progress.I could go on and on about the benefits of to-do lists but I am confident you already know this.I'm not one to prescribe a specific method for managing your to-do list but if you are looking to implement a system or overhaul your current, there are some elements that you should consider.Today, we are going to talk through those elements, I will share how I personally handle each, and I am going to leave you excited and ready to manage your to-do list like a pro.Key Takeaways:Digital versus analog options for creating a to-do listUsing a list versus a calendarShould I have 1 master list or multiple to-do lists?How to handle recurring tasks3 tips for successfully completing your to-do listsMentions:Email Management Tips for Young Professionals Overwhelmed by a Cluttered Inbox: www.tsirpodcast.com/1023 Tips for Managing Your Work Calendar Like a Pro: www.tsirpodcast.com/104More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Do you ever feel like you're living in Groundhog Day where the events yesterday, feel like today, and you're probably going to have those same feelings tomorrow? The weeks are moving fast yet you don't feel like much is changing?If this is the case you might be in a rut. If I'm being honest, I'm coming out of a period of my life where I've felt like I've been in a rut. I've had my head down, hard at work. I'm really satisfied with most of the elements of my life right now but I have this underlying feeling of unease. I don't need to blow anything up but I've been looking for some change.Luckily, Les Alfred came into my life at the right time. This conversation gave me some ideas for embracing more spontaneity, mixing up routines, and busting out of my rut. Implementing her practical advice has me feeling like I'm headed in the right direction now.Les is the creator and host behind the wildly popular podcast, Balanced Black Girl where she covers various aspects of wellness with approachability and care.I'll be honest, I became a bit of a superfan after binging her show in preparation for this conversation and one of my favorite series she did was all about leveling up. The first half of this conversation we talk about practical tips for busting out of a rut but as we enter the second half of the episode, we talk about so many implementable concepts like time audits, your confidence account, and creating a brag file. I think all 3 of these concepts will level up your career so stick around until the end.Speaking up that, hit the follow button on your podcast player right now. We are finishing up the managing the things at work series next week with an episode about conquering your to-do and we are going to follow that up with a series on creative ways to expand your professional network. So if that sounds like content that you need right now, hit the follow button so you don't miss out.I hope you enjoy my conversation with…the Leo, yogi, and the creator of Balanced Black Girl…Les Alfred.Key Takeaways:Why social relationships are harder to control than other elements of your wellnessHow to embrace more spontaneity as a regimented personHow to bust out of a rut by making small changes to your routineCreating a list of scary goalsThe lethal combo of having a 9 to 5 and being a small business ownerHow to perform a time auditHow cutting things from your routine can be a great thingThe importance of being hard to manipulateWhy confidence isn't a feeling but an actionHow to make deposits in your confidence accountThe importance of creating a brag file at workMore of Les:Balanced Black Girl Podcast: https://www.balancedblackgirl.com/podcastMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

For all the ways we depend on them, it's kind of amazing how little attention we tend to pay to make sure our calendars are working for us.Your calendar can set your day-to-day priorities but without intentionality, that will fall to other people's priorities. This has been really evident for me in 2023. It crept up on me but meetings started to take over my day. I was jumping in and out of meetings all day long only to look down at my to-do list getting bigger, not smaller.This was all out of good nature. I thought by keeping my calendar as open as possible and making myself available to anyone even on short notice, that I was doing my part at work.This could be the right approach especially if you're in a service-based role where most of your work is done through customer interaction. But if your job depends on you completing work and projects, this can be a problem.Have you heard the saying, “Show me your calendar and I'll show you your priorities?”Calendar management is the systematic process of organizing meetings, events, and tasks. It includes creating, scheduling, and accepting meeting invites along with resolving conflicts. A good calendar management process also includes guiding principles to help shape your day and maximize the return on investment you can get from your time.So how can we use our calendar to maximize our output? What principles should I consider as part of my calendar management process? Today, I will give you 3 strategies I've been trying in 2023.Key Takeaways:What is calendar management?How to protect your focus timeHow to aggregate your meetings into blocks3 questions to ask yourself each Monday to prepare for the weekHow to find “doubles” in your dayMentions:E102 - Email Management Tips for Young Professionals Overwhelmed by a Cluttered Inbox: www.tsirpodcast.com/102More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I remember being on fire for the first few years of my career. I was learning so much and every day brought a novel problem to solve.Boredom wasn't even a thought. I didn't quite understand why people felt stale in their careers.And then things started to slow. What was once a unique puzzle to solve, turned into an ongoing job responsibility. My job was filled with less learning and more…work.Finding a balance between being comfortable in your role and stretching your limits is challenging. This can be especially challenging for those of us who find a lot of satisfaction and purpose from stimulated work.I don't want to be wishing it was Friday afternoon. I want to be excited for Monday. I want that same feeling of excitement from early in my career. But continuously cultivating that energy takes intentionality and some proper planning.Today's guest, Carla Fowler, will give us ideas on how to reenergize your work. She'll share questions you can ask yourself if you are feeling bored, what are the components of a good project to get you excited again, and why all of this is important. Key Takeaways:How to create a “Relive your year” practiceThe importance of continuous growth in your workSigns that you're moving toward career stagnationHow to drive your career growthQuestions to ask yourself if you're feeling bored at work…and what to do about it.How to create learning projects to elevate your visibility and develop your skillsThe importance of learning milestonesPerformance discountingHow external projects and challenges can build momentum for other areas of your lifeHow do we keep growing and exposing ourselves to new things?Looking for “doubles” in your lifeMore of Carla:www.thaxa.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-fowler/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Between reading through messages, crafting the right responses, and keeping tabs on the emails that require follow-up, staying on top of your inbox can feel like a job in itself.Email can be a pain but it is a critical component to most knowledge-based roles that many of us college graduates step into after graduation.Until I started working in the “real world,” I didn't know this though. And the thing that blows me away? College never taught me a system for efficiently managing my email. It was something that I had to learn on my own.I don't want you to be in the same boat. In this episode, we are going to learn a system you can implement right away that will have you spending less time on email and more time on the projects that really matter.Level up your email management game by tuning into this episode.This episode is part 1 of a 3-part series all about managing your work which includes email, calendar, and project management.Key Takeaways:How much time the average worker spends on email each weekHow to make inbox zero work for youThe 3 categories for processing your emailThe golden rule that has saved me hours each week on emailWhat to do with each category of emailsHow to set up action-based folders that keep your primary inbox cleanA tip for non-urgent emails out of sightMentions:Workers Now Spend Two Full Days a Week on Email and in Meetings (WSJ): https://www.wsj.com/articles/workers-say-its-harder-to-get-things-done-now-heres-why-2a5f1389?mod=hp_lead_pos13More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

When I was in grade school, my dad and I were up in Detroit for a track meet. We thought it would be fun to cross over into Canada. Although technically, it was the first time I had left the United States, it wasn't until a week after my college graduation that I took my first real international trip.I did a 4-city stop in Europe and I caught the travel bug. I've made a few more trips to Europe, traveled in South America, and expanded my adventures in the United States.Although I'm not going as far as to say it's a requirement for a happy life, there are so many benefits of making traveling a habit. It can be a release from the day-to-day grind that life can force us into sometimes. You meet new people, make unforgettable memories, and even improve your communication skills. But what that first trip really did for me was expand my horizons and become more mindful of other people's cultures and values. I can confidently say that I am a more sympathetic and open-minded person because of traveling.You don't have to quit your job today and travel the world, although today's guest would have a thing or two to say about that but I'm hoping after this conversation I've convinced you to pick a spot you've always wanted to travel to and book that plane ticket.Renee Bruns took this piece of advice to heart. She created a career sabbatical to pursue what we've all wanted to do at some point in our life: break a Guinness Book of World Records.Renee is now the record holder for the most amount of countries visited in one year in a wheelchair. In 2022, she visited 66 countries bringing her all-time total to 117 countries including all 7 continents.In this conversation, I challenge her with 5 common reasons many of us don't travel. She fires back with reassurance and tangible advice for overcoming these excuses.Key Takeaways:5 surprising reasons Americans don't travelIdeas for low-risk, high-reward places to travel toHow to get by without knowing the languageHow to find affordable transportationTravel money saving hacksThe benefits of hostelsHow to ask for a sabbatical at work and offer creative options to your employerWhen it might be time to leave your work to travelWhy you shouldn't be afraid to travelMentions:www.HostelWorld.comwww.couchsurfing.comMore of Renee:www.reneebruns.netMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Thank you so much for joining us in this special episode. The Struggle is Real podcast hit a significant milestone. You are listening to episode 100.Kyle and I have been considering what we want to do to celebrate this milestone. We're awarding superlatives to some of our favorite episodes. If you think back to high school these were the senior yearbook categories for things such as biggest flirt, class clown, most likely to succeed…We put our own spin on this and will be handing out superlatives to some former guests. Up to this point, we have had 86 guests on the podcast so this was not an easy feat but we made it happen.This episode is meant to be super light-hearted, fun, and honestly really geared toward the listeners that have been with us along the journey. We throw around a lot of guest names and episode numbers. Don't worry, we have links to all of the referenced episodes in the show notes.A huge shout out to you for tuning into the podcast. I've had so much fun creating this content and interviewing guests, and I'm really looking forward to making it even better. And on that note, we end this episode discussing some of the changes you'll be seeing with The Struggle is Real, hopefully, all really great things for you. So stay tuned to the end.Enjoy the conversation with the man in the shadows, the producer of the TSIR, my little brother…Kyle Peters.Key Takeaways:Best tactical advice: JP - Larry Hagner (generative questions), KP - Jonathan Miller (how to give a powerful apology)Unforgettable story: JP - Dee Goines (meeting the Rock), KP - Nate Dukes (reinventing his life)Unexpected surprise subject: JP - Megan Barnett and Lee Carson (dietary fiber), KP - Jewel Hohman (making friends in your 20s)Guest that blew me away: JP - Benjamin Wong, KP - Amhad JabbirGuest that was most relatable at the time: JP - Joel O'LearyGuest to get a drink at the bar with: JP - Andrew Biernat, KP - Ali BinazirSomeone you would trust your life with: JP - Krista Edwards, KP - Sean MullaneyGuest that needs a part 2: JP - Jewel HohmanWhat's next with TSIR podcast?Mentions:Ahmad Jabbir - www.tsirpodcast.com/61Ali Binizar - www.tsirpodcast.com/36Andrew Biernat - www.tsirpodcast.com/65Andrew Paulson - www.tsirpodcast.com/50Brenden Kumarasay - www.tsirpodcast.com/97Corey Nathan - www.tsirpodcast.com/55Dee Goines - www.tsirpodcast.com/11Jared Schuster - www.tsirpodcast.com/25Jackie Cummings Kowski - www.tsirpodcast.com/64Jenny Foss - www.tsirpodcast.com/83Jewel Hohman - www.tsirpodcast.com/72Joel O'Leary - www.tsirpodcast.com/31Jonathan Miller -

Have you heard of the term situationship? I've been seeing the term across different media outlets but I hadn't dug into it much until I found Myisha Battle, today's guest, writing about how they might be the future of dating.At first, situationships seemed to be a terrible idea to me but Myisha has changed my opinion on them. Now I'm thinking, a situationship is exactly what many 20-somethings might need at this time in their dating life.If you haven't heard of the term situationship before, it is defined as that is a relationship that is emotionally connected, but without commitment or future planning. It's beyond a casual hookup or friends with benefits. A situationship could include going on dates, having sex, and building intimacy but exclude labels like boyfriend and girlfriend at least at this point of the relationship.Myisha Battle is a sex and dating coach and the author of the book, This is Supposed to Be Fun: How to Find Joy in Hooking Up, Settling Down, and Everything in Between.With her expertise, we have a really great conversation about if a situationship is right for you, the benefits of this relationship archetype, and how to exit this kind of relationship if it is no longer what you're looking for. We always talk about tons of other great dating subjects like how to set up your dating app profile to attract the right kind of people for you. If you're looking for some clarity and support in your dating life right now, this is the perfect episode for you.Key Takeaways:How different parts of the world view sexHow to communicate with your partner about the sex you wantHow to set up your dating app profileHow to show up as your full self on dating profilesHow to land someone that is nothing like you'd expectCould a situationship give you the dating flexibility you're looking for?How to end a relationship and breakup with someone with compassionFramework for breaking up with someoneHow to know when to take a break from dating versus when to push throughMentions:Wheel of consent (Betty Martin): https://bettymartin.org/videos/How to play the 3-minute game (Betty Martin): https://bettymartin.org/how-to-play-the-3-minute-game/More of Myisha:Website: https://www.myishabattle.com/Book - This is Supposed to Be Fun: https://www.amazon.com/This-Supposed-Be-Fun-Everything/dp/1541602218More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

In episode 96, we talked about the FIRE Movement, a group of people who are focused on early retirement, sometimes decades before the traditional retirement age of 65. They're doing this by building their passive assets to a level where it provides enough money for their living expenses.I love the idea of no longer needing a paycheck to afford my lifestyle and maybe you do too.This is the 2nd episode in our FIRE series where you'll learn 5 potential paths to FIRE so you can determine which path is right for you.Key Takeaways:Selecting the post-retirement lifestyle that fits for youA breakdown of Lean, Fat, and Traditional FIREHow Coast or Barista FIRE could help you downshift your work earlierMentions:What is the FIRE Movement? Retire in Your 30s | E96: www.tsirpodcast.com/96More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Over the last decade of my career, I've found there is a subset of skills that can be a multiplier for your career growth. One of those super skills is effective communication. I've seen those that possess this skill take off leading projects, presenting at important meetings, and getting promotions.Being an average communicator versus an effective communicator can be really subtle. Sometimes it's the word choice, the framing of the conversation, or the preparation done beforehand. If you work towards mastering the nuance of this skill, you're going to be the person people turn to in important situations.Brenden Kumarasamy, a good friend of our show, is back to discuss this nuance and give you a framework you can use today to level up your communication at work. We talked about team meetings, presentations, 1 on 1 connects. I hammered him with questions and he fired back with so much good tactical advice. This guy really knows his stuff.Brenden's background includes coaching ambitious executives and entrepreneurs to be more effective communicators and he also has a popular YouTube channel called MasterTalk with the goal of providing free access to communication tools for everyone in the world. Brenden is really making an impact in this space and I feel so blessed that he spending time with you and me to level up our communication.If you're a listener of the show and haven't left us a rating and review, we'd really appreciate it if you did. And if you're new, welcome, sit back, relax, and let's learn something new.Alright, let's get into it. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the former accounting major, Justin Bieber fanatic, and Mr. MasterTalk himself…Brenden Kumarasamy.Key Takeaways:How to get the confidence to speak up at your team meetingsHow to speak in pyramids vs circlesBest practices for cross-functional departmentsHow to win the meeting before it even beginsHow to climb the corporate ladderHow to overcome stage frightSetting the tone in a presentationHow to prepare and craft a great presentationThe secret to not being boring when you speakTools to enhance your communication styleHow to level up your 1 on 1 networkingUsing 80/20 questions to get more clarity with your lifeMentions:Brenden's 1st appearance on TSIR: Public Speaking Best Practices, Passion is Bogus, and Pitching a CEO l E16 Brenden KumarasamyMore of Brenden:Website: http://rockstarcommunicator.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MasterTalksLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendenkumarasamy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masteryourtalk/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Aside from corporate holidays and one-week vacations, we are going to have to wait until 65 for a total sense of freedom and choice.But do we? What if retirement was closer than that? Maybe in your 50s, your 40s, even your 30s.This might seem like a pipe dream but there is an entire movement all with this goal in mind. And it's called FIRE: Financial Independence, Retire Early.In this episode, we are going to talk about the FIRE movement, how it's redefining retirement, and how you can get on board.Key Takeaways:How to use the 4% rule to calculate your FI numberHow the FIRE Movement got started3 lessons you can learn from the FIRE MovementHow you can get started on your FIRE journeyMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

It's fun to talk about success especially when it comes to entrepreneurship. We are all hoping for this grand journey where we start from the bottom but quickly make it to the top.That happened to my good friend, Chuck Cooper. His first business was wildly successful, until it wasn't. All of a sudden, he found himself in shame never thinking he would have failed. It all seemed too easy.Luckily, Chuck is resourceful and found support to build himself back up and to build a new business in the making.In this conversation, Chuck and I talk about the ups and downs of being a business owner, the fundamental skills to be successful, let it be entrepreneurship or your traditional career path, and we throw in some baseball talk both as an analogy and my predictions about my beloved St. Louis Cardinals.Key Takeaways:What makes mentors want to invest in certain peopleEffective networking practicesHow to build your business by creating relationshipsWhat are employers looking for in their young talent?A key sales strategy: picking up the phoneRules you can set in place for better work life balanceWhy to consider a change in livingHow the game of baseball could give you comfort as a 20-somethingMore of Chuck:Website: https://whitewaterconsulting.net/Unprecedented: Building a Multi-Generational Business on Trust, Respect and the Valuing of People: https://www.amazon.com/Unprecedented-Building-Multi-Generational-Business-Respect-ebook/dp/B09YWR5Z1GMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

You've been doing a great job taking part of your paycheck and investing that money every month. You check your balance and you feel like “I'm not making as much progress as I thought I would.”Of course, the stock market performance plays a huge role in your return but that's out of our control. If you're properly diversifying, you're doing what you can and the rest is fairly unpredictable.But you know what factor affects your portfolio's performance that you can have a direct impact on? Fees.And luckily, with just a little bit of education and proper blueprint, you can minimize the fees you're paying to maintain your investment portfolio. In this episode, we are going to be discussing 3 common investing fees, how to figure out if you're paying them, and what you can do to reduce your cost.Key Takeaways:How a 2% fee can dramatically affect your investment returns3 common investing feesHow to figure out if you're paying investments feesHow to reduce the costs of your investment feesMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

I'm turning 30 next month and I've been unsure how I've felt about that. I've had countless conversations with guests that shared with me how silly it was to think they needed to “make something of themselves” by 30. Yet here I am, wondering if I've done enough to really make my 20-year-old self proud how I've spent the last decade.That 20-year-old Justin had high expectations about where he was going to be at 30. I've learned over the last decade that you can set your sights on something but life has a whole lot of serendipity. And I don't know, that's kind of the fun of it right? I mean, at 20, I would have never predicted podcasting would be such a significant aspect of my life.So here's to me for letting go of any expectations, being proud of everything I have accomplished, and excited for what's to come in this new decade.I'm done with my poetic monologue but it does set up my conversation with my friend, Paul Angone.Paul spent most of his 20s thinking he was a failure. Working at dead-end jobs to support his real dream of becoming a best-selling author, Paul grinded and hustled any moment he had - lunch breaks, late evenings, weekends - with the hope of creating something that sparked a fire.Sure enough, it eventually happened (although much longer than expected) and Paul has gone on to author best-selling books including 101 Secrets for Your Twenties, 101 Questions You Need to Ask in Your Twenties, and 25 Lies Twentysomethings Need to Stop Believing. His newest book, Listen to Your Day: The Life Changing Practice of Paying Attention, is out today and I recommend picking it up.Paul has spent so much time researching and understanding the unique struggles of being in your 20s. We get into a whole lot of conversation about these struggles including finding your purpose, feeling like a failure, and when to make sacrifices vs when to move on. You're really going to like this one.100 reviews before our 100th episode (consider it an early birthday present). If you're a listener of the show and haven't left us a rating and review, we'd really appreciate it if you did. And if you're new, welcome, sit back, relax, and let's learn something new.I hope you enjoy my conversation with…”20-something failure” turned 5-time author…Paul Angone. Key Takeaways:Why to consider sacrificing spending for timeWhen to keep going and when to give up a dreamHow to find your “signature sauce”Defining yourself in multiple waysA lesson learned from the Mayor of StarbucksHow to find your significance by embracing failureThe possibility of greatness and embarrassment in the same spaceWhy you can't label something a failure or success too earlyHow to listen to the small details of your day to find the answers you're looking forMentions:Searching for Sugar Man: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2125608/More of Paul:Website: www.AllGroanUp.comListen to Your Day: https://allgroanup.com/books-2/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulangone/Signature Sauce course: https://signaturesauce.com/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at

So you messed up and need to apologize to someone? It was an honest mistake, you feel terrible, and you want to say sorry. How do you do that in a heartfelt, genuine way?A proper apology can quickly repair a relationship and lift a weight off of the givers shoulders but a bad apology…that can be disastrous and lead to even more hurt.Between politicians, CEOs, and celebrities, we have seen our fair share of examples of those bad apologies where blame was shifted and responsibility wasn't taken.Luckily we have Jonathan Miller, a communication coach, to share with us a framework and give us an example of a good apology. This is a replay from an episode way back in the vault, episode 15, so I'm guessing you haven't heard this one before and it was too good not to resurface.Jonathan shares a ton of great insight on how to have mindful communication like how to resolve conflict or how to compassionately deny an invite to a party. This episode is a great reminder that our words have impact and if you're mindful about them, communication can be your superpower.If you're a listener of the show and haven't left us a rating and review, we'd really appreciate it if you did. And if you're new, nothing for you to do, sit back, relax, and let's learn something new.I hope you enjoy my conversation with…the rock climbing, mediating, nomadic traveler…Jonathan Miller.Key Takeaways:The same words can be interpreted multiple waysHow to minimize conflict from miscommunicationInstead of good or bad, consider what works or doesn't workDenying responsibility through our languageImpact of our wordsWhy conflict isn't inherently badHow to give a heartfelt apologyMore of Jonathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millerdjonathan/Website: https://www.level7.is/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

In today's conversation, I went down this incredible, unplanned rabbit hole with my friend Megan Miller.We both have a mutual love for journaling and I spent the first half of this conversation asking a lot of questions around her specific practice. It really made me realize how much of an impact my simple journaling practice has left on me.I'm hoping this gives you some inspiration on how you could get started journaling and what benefits you can expect by doing so.Aside from being a journaling enthusiast, Megan is a coach centered around helping high achievers detox off the drug of achievement. We discuss the potentially negative impact of relying on our career for validation. I don't think getting validation from my career is inherently bad but whenever I find that is the only area I'm relying on, this creates a major imbalance with my life.And surprise, surprise I kind of feel like I'm itching towards that right now and I'm curious for solutions so ask Megan questions about this subject too.Key Takeaways:How to make sure you start your day off the right wayCreate a journal practice that works for youHow journaling can remind you of all the progress you've madeDetoxing off the drug of achievementThe Gap and The Gain: high achievers guide to successFinding validation in other drawers of lifeMentions:The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy: https://www.amazon.com/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence/dp/1401964362More of Megan:Website: https://www.megan-miller.com/Megan's microstep journal: https://www.megan-miller.com/microstep-journalhttps://www.amazon.com/Voices-21st-Century-Women-Transforming-ebookMore of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/

Have you felt like you've been burning the candle at both ends? Are you trying to do too many things and feeling burnout?Maybe you need a Selfish Sunday.Cara Hays initially introduced me to this concept of Selfish Sundays. It's pretty simple - she spends Sunday doing things for herself and she doesn't judge herself for it. She might meal prep, do laundry, or just binge watch a TV show. Whatever she needs from herself on Sundays is what she does.I loved the idea so much that I stole it for myself, and it has really helped me with burnout. I was recently on my friend Anastasia Barbuzzi's podcast, $HMoney Radio, talking about my Selfish Sundays. I wanted to share this with you in case you were looking for some inspiration and ideas on how you could overcome burnout.Key Takeaway:How Selfish Sunday's might help you avoid burnoutMore of Anastasia Barbuzzi:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shmoneyradio/Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/shmoneyradioWebsite: https://www.shmoney.club/More of The Struggle is Real:Find show notes and more at https://www.tsirpodcast.com/Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tsirpod/