Weird Finance

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to author and Director of Impact at Candide Group, Jasmine Rashid. Jasmine discussed her role in assessing social impact investments, the importance of cross-class, cross-racial, and cross-cultural collaborations to effect change, and her new book, The Financial Activist Playbook. Jasmine offers personal advice on managing work-life balance, including the significance of rest and self-care practices. She emphasizes the need to address and shift power dynamics within the fields of impact investing and philanthropy, advocating for a partnership-based approach to build an inclusive economy.Jasmine Rashid (@jazz_ny | LInkedIn) is a New York-raised, Oakland-based, Zillenial who believes deeply in people power. As a financial activist, writer, and impact investing professional, she successfully supported the #FamiliesBelongTogether coalition in shifting billions of dollars in big bank financing away from the migrant detention and private prison industry. In her role as Director of Impact for Candide Group, she helps investors flow their money to predominately women & BIPOC-led social justice-focused companies, funds, and vital organizations building the next economy. She is also a proud Congressman John Lewis fellow, Just Economy Institute alum, Trauma of Money Method certified practitioner and girl in her late 20s just trying her best to navigate contradictions under Late Capitalism (and help build something better).Her book — The Financial Activist Playbook — offers 8 accessible strategies for everyday people to reclaim wealth and collective well-being.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Aja Evans, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in financial therapy. Aja shares her personal journey of merging her background in counseling psychology with financial education, highlighting the importance of understanding the relationship between financial behaviors and self-esteem. The discussion delves into common financial struggles, the significance of open communication about money, and the challenges of setting boundaries in various cultural contexts. Aja also introduces her upcoming book, "Feel Good Finance," which aims to guide readers through understanding their personal financial psychology and managing their finances effectively. Aja Evans (@ajaetherapy) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, speaker, and author specializing in Financial Therapy. After going through her own financial awakening, Aja realized the connection between finances and mental health was deeper than she had been taught. Her debut book, Feel Good Finance due out December 3rd dives into the experiences so many of us have had and guides the reader in connecting their life experiences to how they behave with money. Aja has been featured in a variety of major news outlets including The New York Times, Business Insider, NerdWallet, Time, and Teen Vogue. Aja is on a mission to get more people engaged in living their best lives while attuning to their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors around money. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Katherine Kubler about her journey as a director, producer and filmmaker. Katherine talks about her early career at William Morris Endeavor and Paramount Pictures, and her passion for financial independence ignited by a lack of formal education on the subject. She candidly shares the challenges of navigating public perception and personal trauma while working on her Netflix documentary, The Program, which explores her harrowing time in a cult-like program. Katherine also talks about the importance of building a supportive community, transitioning from a skilled editor to a business owner, and balancing the public's expectations with her private life. Katherine Kubler (@katherinekubler) is a Los Angeles-based Writer, Director, and Editor. She is the owner and Executive Creative Director of Tiny Dino (@tinydinoagency), an award-winning creative agency whose clients include Paramount Pictures, United Artists, MGM, Sony Pictures, Warner Brothers, Amazon, and Roku. She develops film/tv projects through her production company, Omnivision.Katherine recently directed and executive produced the Netflix original documentary series The Program: Cons, Cults, and Kidnapping with Academy Award-winning production company Fishbowl Films. Now streaming.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco delves into the fascinating career journey of Sugey Piedra, who started as a receptionist and eventually became a successful accounting practitioner alongside her sisters. Sugey shares how her deep interest in personal and business finances led her to start her own accounting business. She discusses the challenges and rewards of working with family, offering insights into maintaining work-life balance and the importance of regular financial reviews. Sugey also highlights personalized tax strategies and advisory services, emphasizing proactive client relationships and tailored financial goals. Sugey also reveals how personal development and business coaching have reshaped her business approach, moving from a high-volume focus to building meaningful client relationships.Sugey has over 20 years of tax preparation experience and provides a unique approach. She co-founded Prominence Business in 2018 with her two sisters. She is dedicated to helping clients with annual tax planning and tax-saving strategies. Her mission is to have financial conversations that are sometimes not easy, but always necessary for future planning.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco and Cole Kalin dive into the intricacies of financial coaching and literacy. Cole shares frustrations from not learning about finances sooner and outlines her approach to money coaching, which involves a deep dive into clients' monthly expenses and emotional assessments. They explore common financial anxieties, like the pervasive lack of financial education, and Cole emphasizes the therapeutic nature of her work, helping clients develop sustainable financial habits over time. The conversation also touches on the societal messages, particularly towards women, that finance is complicated, and the need for clear financial goals. Paco appreciates Cole's insights and discusses the importance of financial literacy for creative entrepreneurs and freelancers, aiming to make money conversations less awkward and more empowering.Cole Kalin (@ladiestalkingaboutmoney) is a Special Education Elementary School Teacher turned Certified Financial Paraplanner (FPQP™) who's passionate about making sure women don't get left behind when it comes to understanding their money. She helps women build good financial habits, set and meet reachable goals, and feel more empowered around their money. She is the founder of Ladies Talking About Money.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Katherine Studley, a tax consultant for adult content creators. Katherine shares her journey from working in traditional CPA firms to founding The Only Consultant. They discuss the evolving gig economy, the impact of platforms like OnlyFans on legitimizing sex work, and the challenges and solutions around tax write-offs specific to the industry. Katherine provides insights and offers strategies for managing a rapidly growing client base and tips for freelancers about setting up business entities. Additionally, they explore Katherine's latest project—a tax course aimed at creatives—set to launch in late December. This episode is packed with practical advice and thought-provoking discussions for entrepreneurs and freelancers alike.Katherine Studley (@the_only_consultant) is both a tax accountant and creative originally from Buffalo, NY and now living in Houston, TX. She graduated from Niagara University with a Bachelor's in Accounting and started her career in CPA firms. After pivoting to social media marketing during the pandemic and learning about OnlyFans, she realized there was an opportunity to provide judgement free tax preparation to the adult industry and beyond. Sign up for Katherine's email newsletter: https://www.theonlyconsultant.comFor tax help: https://www.prismatax.comThe theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks with filmmaker, writer, and director Chris Laughter to delve into his unique journey in the creative industry. Chris discusses the importance of building a supportive team, balancing business development, and his perspective on pricing creative work. He shares valuable insights on preventing burnout by relying on a team and speaks about his transition to the retainer model during the pandemic. Together, Paco and Chris discuss the nuances of content creation, the evolution from quantity to quality, and the intricacies of balancing personal passion projects with commercial work. They also touch on the impact of storytelling, mentorship, and the challenges faced during Chris's early career in Los Angeles.Christopher Ryan Laughter (@chrislaughter) learned how to tell stories by making skateboard videos and music videos in Houston, Texas before moving to Los Angeles where he found his footing as one of the premiere event documentarians of the early 2010's. Today, he specializes in empowering brands and businesses to connect with their audiences through purpose driven documentary films. Through his studio, Enjoy Human (formerly Studio Laughter/Snackhaus), he's delivered impactful work for Microsoft, League of Legends, Sony Playstation, adidas Originals, and more. In parallel to his documentary work, his thought-provoking short films explore the complexities of modern society and are often programmed into the most coveted of genre film festivals worldwide.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco sits down with Tina Lopez to explore her multifaceted entrepreneurial journey. Tina shares insights on building automated content businesses, emphasizing the benefits of automation, outsourcing, and systematizing workflows to avoid burnout. She also discusses the value of collaboration over social media reliance for audience growth and the importance of investing in high-return activities such as email marketing. Tina reflects on her early entrepreneurial ventures, the influence of her upbringing on her self-sufficiency, and how her finance background helps her manage multiple income streams. Both Paco and Tina delve into the challenges and rewards of balancing creative work with financial prudence, aiming for a "work optional" lifestyle.Tina helps creators build an automated content business that doesn't rely on social media. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco interviews Beth Pickens, an artist consultant, about the relationship between artists and money. They discuss the challenges artists face in valuing their work, the pressure to commercialize their art, and the societal messages that undermine the worth of artists. Beth emphasizes the importance of recognizing oneself as an artist and finding a balance between the commercial and personal aspects of creative practice. She also addresses the need for artists to protect a corner of their practice that is free from the pressures of the market. Beth provides guidance on pricing artwork and encourages artists to ask for what they deserve. Beth Pickens (@bethpickensconsulting) is a Los Angeles-based consultant for artists and arts organizations. She is the author of Make Your Art No Matter What (Chronicle Books, 2021.) Her previous book is Your Art Will Save Your Life (Feminist Press, 2018).  Her pamphlets—Making Art During Fascism and On Artists and Hopelessness—were designed and distributed by the Feminist Center for Creative Work in Los Angeles. Her popular podcast, Mind Your Practice, is widely available as is her artist service platform, Homework Club.  Pickens earned her Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Chelsea Fagan about growing up with a mother who was a public school science teacher and a father who was a freelance illustrator, how she stumbled into writing professionally and started The Financial Diet as a way to hold herself accountable with money. Chelsea discusses her personal experience with consumer debt and how it shaped her views on money. She emphasizes the importance of managing emotions and habits around money and the need to shift the narrative around escaping poverty. Chelsea also talks about the evolution of The Financial Diet and the challenges of navigating the ever-changing landscape of online media, the dynamic and cultural aspects of living in New York City, the benefits of diversification in her writing career, and her thoughts on the impact of AI on the media landscape. She also shares her writing process and offers advice for aspiring authors.Chelsea Fagan (@faganchelsea) is an author of many books including A Perfect Vintage, her debut romance novel. She is also the co-founder and CEO of The Financial Diet, the largest women's personal finance media company. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and dog.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco sits down with Brian Morrow, the innovative mind behind Shark Pig and a pioneer in reshaping the wedding videography industry. Brian takes us on a journey from his eclectic upbringing to discovering his love for filmmaking in college and then facing industry challenges alongside his business partner. Brian dives deep into the highs and lows of starting a production company in LA, the impact of technology on the film industry, including the existential dread surrounding AI. Plus, Brian candidly shares his struggles with financial instability, the effects of the COVID pandemic, and the tough decisions that come with keeping a business afloat. Tune in for an insightful conversation about creativity, resilience, and the unconventional paths to success.Brian Morrow is a documentary director and producer. He's the creative director and co-owner of Shark Pig, a full-service production company, post house, and creative collective. He was nominated for a PGA award for Hal, the 2018 film about the rebellious and iconic film maker Hal Ashby. It premiered at Sundance, and Shark Pig's follow-up feature doc, Sheryl, premiered at SXSW to critical praise. Brian's most recent film, Melissa Etheridge: I'm Not Broken is available to stream on Paramount +.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Amy Posner about freelancing and building a sustainable business. Amy shares her expertise in helping individuals identify their target audience, develop a unique voice, and create effective pitching strategies to attract clients. The conversation also touches on the evolution of establishing credibility in the digital age and the importance of business skills for freelancers and creatives. Throughout the discussion, Amy provides insights and real-world examples from her extensive experience in starting, growing, and selling multiple businesses across various industries.Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses.Over her 30-year career, Amy (@amyrposner) has launched six successful businesses (five of which are still in business today!) and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. Now, she focuses on empowering freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – something she teaches in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast. Amy has been featured on Copyhackers and as a guest on several top podcasts, including The Copywriter Club, Copy Chief Radio, and The Deliberate Freelancer, among others.In her free time, you'll find Amy adventuring around her hometown of Olympia, raising funds for pet cancer treatment, and enjoying Washington's natural beauty.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco de Leon and Caroline Cala Donofrio discuss the intricacies of a career in the arts. Caroline shares her unique journey from growing up in New Jersey with little encouragement to pursue the arts, to becoming a celebrated author of the Best Babysitters Ever series, ten ghostwritten books for celebrities, and publishing her email newsletter, Between a Rock and a Card Place. They explore challenges like imposter syndrome, societal pressures about the idea of success, and the why AI does not feel like an existential threat to creativity. Caroline talks about the significance of defining personal success, maintaining a consistent writing practice, advice she'd give to her younger self and to others navigating the creative field.Caroline Cala Donofrio (@carolinecala) is a writer whose work has been featured in The Cut, Vogue, Elle, Refinery29, The Zoe Report and Cup of Jo (where she also worked as an editor for many years). Her newsletter, Between a Rock and a Card Place, features a mix of personal essays, interviews, and a weekly card reading. She has also authored, co-written, or ghostwritten over a dozen books.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, host Paco de Leon sits down with Pony Lee Musgrave, founder of Folklore Salon, to discuss the intersection of business and community. Pony shares their journey from aspiring artist to successful business owner, emphasizing the value of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for both clients and staff. They delve into the financial challenges of running a salon and the necessity of separating personal and business finances. Pony highlights the relief and strategic advantage of bringing on professional bookkeeping services, especially during COVID-19, and offers advice to other small business owners. Throughout the conversation, Paco and Pony stress the importance of fearlessness, community feedback, and staying true to one's values in a competitive industry.PonyLee Musgrave is the co-founder of Folklore Salon (@folklore.la and @folklore_lbc), the first openly Queer owned and operated shop of its kind to service the LGBTQ Community and it's badass allies and Pony has also served as a member of the of Dyke Day LA board for over a decade.The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon.If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco and Niluka Kavanagh dive deep into the evolving landscape of remote work and entrepreneurship. Niluka shares her journey from working at KPMG after studying at Oxford, to becoming a digital nomad and founding her company, Imagine That (@imaginethatclub). They discuss the challenges and benefits of transitioning to remote work, the significance of customer feedback, and the importance of personal branding. Niluka also addresses common misconceptions about digital nomads and the realism of balancing work while traveling.  Niluka is the Founder of ImagineThat - the Business School for Digital Nomads and Solopreneurs. ImagineThat helps ambitious but bored professionals start their own independent online services business and work from anywhere. She does this through offering career support and her ImagineThat Business Academy. After graduating from Oxford University, Niluka started her career in consulting at KPMG UK in London. But nearly 5 years later she wanted more and decided to embark on an experiment - to work for herself and work from anywhere. During this time, Niluka worked on 2 of her own businesses, fully remote from 7 places across the world. She saw that it IS possible to work for herself and have location freedom - spurring her on to build ImagineThat and help others achieve the same. If you are interested in what Niluka is doing and would like to work with her on either your online business idea or get guidance on how to transition in your career, you can reach out via the website or connect with Niluka on LinkedIn. You can also subscribe and join over 500 people in the free community here. Finally, you can also get the ImagineThat Guide "How to become a digital nomad through starting an online services business" which has 30 pages packed full of information on the topic from the ImagineThat website. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, host Paco de Leon, along with Stephanie Bucko and Cristina Livadary from Mana Financial Life Design (@manafld), dive into the essentials of thinking like a financial planner. They discuss targeting clients with growth mindsets, particularly those in helping professions and the sandwich generation. Stephanie explains the trade-offs for business owners aiming to keep taxes low versus paying more into Social Security and retirement plans. Christina shares insights on mastering personal finance and emphasizes the importance of understanding financial numbers.  Cristina is a Certified Financial Planner® and Registered Life Planner®. Before Mana, she led sales and consulting efforts as a Regional Director with Russell Investments, where she consulted for and worked with over 10,000 financial advisors. After years of experience in the industry she grew dissatisfied with the wide disparities in knowledge, empathy, and skill within the advisor population. Cristina is a Bucknell University graduate, with a BA in Political Science and Spanish. She launched Mana with Stephanie in 2018 based on the belief that even greater success can be achieved by solving issues holistically - with individuals and their families. Since founding Mana, Cristina has been recognized for her accomplishments within the industry by leading organizations such as Investment News' 40 under 40 in 2020 and Investopedia's Top 100 Advisors in 2023. Cristina is living her own life plan, working in her dream career as a business owner and a financial life planner who does everything in her power to positively impact the lives of her clients. When she's not hard at work, you can find Cristina in the great outdoors. She is passionate about surfing and adventuring around the world with her family and friends. Stephanie is a Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst®. She graduated from Bucknell University with a BSBA in Accounting. Following her undergraduate education, she audited hedge funds in New York City with PricewaterhouseCoopers during the 2008 financial crisis, and then joined Man Group, the world's largest publicly traded hedge fund. At Man Group she served as a risk manager for six years, handling $15 billion in hedge funds. After years of serving banks, pensions and endowments, Stephanie became interested in bringing institutional quality services to a broader population. In 2018, Stephanie launched Mana with Cristina out of the realization that investment management is only a small piece of the services that individuals truly need in a financial advisor. Since founding Mana, Stephanie has been recognized for her accomplishments within the industry by leading organizations such as Investopedia's Top 100 Advisors of 2023. She is also a regular contributor to MyStockOptions.com, the financial advice industry's premier site for equity compensation. When Stephanie isn't educating herself on the markets or building complex spreadsheets, you can find her outside. Her favorite days are spent on the ski slopes, riding horses, and bird watching. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  Welcome back to another exciting episode of Weird Finance! In this episode, we have a special Client Spotlight featuring the brilliant Sarah Salvatoriello, founder of the creative branding studio Ampersand & Ampersand. In this episode, we'll dive deep into the nuances of marketing, messaging, and brand positioning—all crucial elements for sustained business success. As Paco and Sarah navigate the challenging yet rewarding landscape of entrepreneurship, they emphasize the importance of storytelling in finance and branding. Sarah shares her enlightening journey from working with large media organizations to carving out her own niche in the branding world, shedding light on her initial denial of the need for sales and marketing and the mental shift she had to embrace as the primary salesperson. With candid discussions on prioritizing tasks, understanding customer pain points, and managing different client budgets, they explore how branding and marketing can effectively attract and engage a target audience. Sarah Salvatoriello (@sarahsalv) founded Ampersand & Ampersand (@ampersand.ampersand), a creative branding studio that helps small and medium-sized businesses in a moment of pivot. Sarah spent 18+ years working with global media companies, in-house agencies, design studios, and advertising agencies. In 2020, she pivoted her career and quickly realized the struggles of running a creative business in an increasingly broken system. Her zone of genius is aligning vision, voice, and visuals through a mix of Gestalt theory, industry learnings, good ol' fashioned brand strategy, and a sprinkle of Bob Ross. Sarah's blend of cheerful nihilism and compassionate-capitalist business empowerment swings against toxic positivity without sacrificing effectiveness. She seeks out the overlooked, creatively connects the objective to the subjective, and advocates for “real good” over “feel good.” Join the next Bounce House, a free creative brainstorm to share your wild ideas and see what gains traction or book the Priority Prism and get focused on your first step towards a change. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, host Paco speaks with attorney Chris Valdheims about the essential role of legal matters in empowering creative businesses. They discuss creative industry legal battles, the importance of addressing legal issues proactively, and the increasing accessibility of legal services. Chris shares advice for business owners on trademarks, setting up an LLC or corporation, and having solid customer contracts. They also delve into personal experiences with financial management, the significance of saving and investing early, and the emerging trend of relocating internationally for better living conditions and work opportunities.  Chris Valdheims is a designer/software developer turned lawyer and writer who founded Counsel for Creators (@counselforcreators) as a way to connect creative people with accessible legal help. Chris grew up in Los Angeles around many people in creative industries and he knew that conventional law firms weren't cutting it, so he built what he would have wanted to see. Chris is also a creative in his own right; he's in the process of getting his first book published. It's a memoir about finding his birth family as an adult and how that changed him. Chris is married and has two boys and he and his family will move to Croatia this year. If you're interested in learning more about working with Chris and the Counsel for Creators, please check out the Creator's Legal Program. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, The Hell Yeah Group's editorial associate, financial coach, and co-founder of Ladies Talking About Money, Cole Kalin, returns to the show to ask Paco more questions about her journey building her bookkeeping agency. Paco emphasizes the importance of liability protection and discusses their decision to incorporate as an S corp . She shares insights from his experience in wealth management, focusing on leveraging the tax code for maximum benefits. The conversation also explores ethical investing, the balance between practical and ethical financial decisions, and the process of starting and formalizing a business. Join us for a conversation packed with practical tips and heartfelt advice on navigating the financial intricacies of the creative industry and don't forget to check outHell Yeah Bookkeeping and The Hell Yeah Group's offerings. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco de Leon is joined by financial therapist Amanda Clayman to explore the intricate relationship between emotions and money. They dive into personal struggles with perfectionism and shame in financial management, and find solace in shared experiences. Amanda discusses her work with creative professionals facing financial unpredictability, reflects on financial nihilism and its societal impact, and the shifting narratives of financial agency and societal progress. Join Paco and Amanda as they candidly unpack the layers of our financial identities and histories. Amanda Clayman (@amandaclayman) is a clinician, coach, and speaker specializing in money issues. Amanda entered the mental health field with a unique focus: the role of money in people's lives. Her journey into this niche began in her twenties when she noticed how deeply emotional her relationship with money was. Financial challenges she faced were more about underlying emotional wounds than mere poor financial decisions. As she delved into therapy for herself, she realized that simply understanding these emotional roots wasn't enough to change her behavior; it required dedicated focus and effort.Determined to transform these insights into healthier financial behaviors, Amanda questioned why this intersection of finance and emotional health wasn't more widely addressed. This sparked a passion within her to help others navigate the same path. She found herself compelled to continuously explore and work in this area, aiming to illuminate the connection between money and emotional well-being for her clients, much like the metaphorical bridges she jokes about burning—illuminating the way for others. Amanda's new podcast, Emotional Investment is availabe on Audible.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco speaks with Katherine de Vos Devine, an attorney specializing in art law. Katherine discusses the importance of legal and financial management for artists. She shares her journey from art history to law and explains why she chose to focus on the arts. Katherine emphasizes the need for artists to have an estate plan and highlights the emerging legal issues in the art world, particularly regarding fair use and AI. She also addresses the struggle artists face in balancing artistic integrity with commercial success. At the end of the conversation, Katherine speaks about the value of professional bookkeeping for artists and creatives and her personal experience working with the Hell Yeah, Bookkeeping team. Katherine de Vos Devine (@devosdevine) is the principal attorney and founder of Implement Legal (@implement.legal), a boutique law firm that offers copyright, trademark, contract, and estate planning services to creative clients. Katherine teaches Art Law at Queens University of Charlotte and is Co-Chair of the College Art Association Committee on Intellectual Property. Her academic research focuses on transformative use and appropriation art, and she has spoken widely about copyright law and artists' rights at venues, including the University of California at Berkeley, Harvard University, and Art Basel.  When she's not working with clients, Katherine writes Protect Your Magic, a newsletter on intellectual property, contemporary art, and creative economies. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to holistic business teacher, coach, and the creator of New Money Social Club (@newmoneysocial.club), Eden Connelly Tallarico. They delves into overcoming money blocks and fears while growing a business, the importance of clarity in offerings, the challenges of showing up and being visible, and the value of consistent content creation. Eden shares insights on managing inconsistent income, cultivating abundance, and pursuing values-driven work. Gain valuable advice on rebranding, marketing expansion, and balancing selfless service with business growth strategies. Tune in for practical tips on navigating financial hurdles and transforming entrepreneurial mindsets. After a decade in nonprofits, Eden pivoted to helping values-led businesses grow through a mixture of mindset work, mathematics, and marketing. As a learned and natural-born growth marketer devoted to projects that are making the world a more equitable and sustainable place, she's helped purpose-driven businesses reach millions and teaches holistic business at a global health coaching school. She's a certified Trauma of Money facilitator, and on a mission to help the folks who are doing the most healing, creative, regenerative work in our society nourish themselves while building profitable businesses they love. Links: New Money Social Club  New Money Social Club on Instagram Oversubscribed by Daniel Priestly The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Grant Atkinson to delve into the multifaceted world of entrepreneurship and legal services for creative businesses. Grant candidly discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, from financial struggles and risk management to the necessity of resilience and adaptability in changing economic conditions. Grant helps us get to the bottom of why so many small business owners think they need to register their business in Delaware business and the importance of proper trademarking.  Grant is the founder of Framework Law Group (@frameworklawgroup), a law firm dedicated to helping creative entrepreneurs navigate their business legal, including (1) registering their businesses, (2) protecting their brands, (3) getting their contracts together, and (4) navigating growth. Grant is a creative entrepreneur and launched his practice in 2014 to help demystify the legal process, and make the law more accessible to his creative peers. Grant is also the founder of ActionResponder, an AI legal tech platform for trademark attorneys, and co-founder of Village Roots, a creative retail shop and education space in Wrightwood. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. Also, check out Framework Law Academy and the Free Jumpstart – a 16 minute gentle crash course on the three essential steps every creative should take to register and protect their business. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter. In this episode of Weird Finance, The Hell Yeah Group's editorial associate, financial coach and co-founder of Ladies Talking About Money, Cole Kalin, turns the table on this episode by interviewing Paco. In this conversation, Cole and Paco dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of running a niche bookkeeping agency. Paco shares invaluable lessons from bootstrapping a small business, discussing everything from the pitfalls of undervaluing services to the strategic benefits of targeting a specific clientele. Whether dealing with the stresses of tax season or the nuances of providing fractional CFO services, Paco's insights shed light on the complexities of financial management within creative sectors. Join us for a conversation packed with practical tips and heartfelt advice on navigating the financial intricacies of the creative industry and don't forget to check out Hell Yeah Bookkeeping's offerings. Thank you to Michael “Frosti” Snow for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco speaks to Caitlin Copple and Holly Conti, partners at Full Swing PR. They dive into the transformative world of public relations, exploring how it not only bolsters brand visibility but also addresses crucial social disparities. This episode delves into their journey from founding Full Swing PR to becoming a beacon for businesses aiming to scale sustainably while emphasizing the power of PR in amplifying underrepresented voices. Caitlin and Holly are the co-owners of Full Swing Public Relations. Full Swing Public Relations (@fullswingpr) is the nation's leading agency serving small business owners from underrecognized communities. Founded in 2019, Full Swing helps BIPOC and LGBTQ+ led companies and organizations increase their visibility, credibility, and sales through expertly-executed public relations strategies. Thank you to Anney and Samantha for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To stay in touch with us during this hiatus, sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey. You can also contact us by calling our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, by emailing us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or by submitting your questions here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Rachel Rodgers. Rachel shares her personal tale of going from lawyer to exhilarating business coach, emphasizing the significance of pursuing work that fuels your passion. They delve into the intriguing world of making bold business decisions for financial abundance, tackle the idea of "broke-ass decisions," and dissect the psychological hurdles that can impede financial growth. They also discuss the importance of trusting one's intuition in business decisions, the strategic moves to scale a business, the impact of content marketing, and the profound difference between working for wealth and investing for it. Rachel candidly opens up about her early financial missteps and provides actionable advice for entrepreneurs, including tactics for doubling revenue, leveraging client success stories, and fostering meaningful business relationships. Don't miss these profound insights that could reshape your financial and business strategies for the better. Rachel Rodgers (@rachrodgersesq) is CEO and founder of Hello Seven (@hello7co), a multi-million dollar company that teaches diverse entrepreneurs how to earn more money and build wealth. Rachel's mission is to help historically excluded groups including women, people of color, queer people, and people with disabilities build their businesses and become millionaires. Since the inception of Hello Seven- she has helped hundreds become millionaires and thousands become financially free. Check out Rachel's newest Audible book, Six-Figure Side Hustle. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Andrew Parker for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco speaks with renowned actress and director Bryce Dallas Howard (@brycedhoward) about the challenges and opportunities in the entertainment industry, her work supporting emerging entertainment entrepreneurs through Nine Muses Entertainment, unrealistic expectations about financial success in Hollywood, creative mastery, the importance of personally defining success and why it's essential to cultivate a creative community. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenna Park and Andrew Parker for lending your voice for our special PSA. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, our host Paco delves into a conversation with Amina AlTai about reimagining our relationship to work. The conversation covers a range of topics, beginning with the notion of shame and guilt tied to earning money, with Amina revealing that around half of her clients grapple with these emotions, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. Amina, who transitioned to coaching following a burnout in her marketing career, illuminates her holistic approach to overcoming these feelings through mindset shifts and somatic tools. Amina emphasizes the need for balance through play, creativity, and ethical wealth-building. They also discuss the "passion tax," sustainable success, and the intense significance of work in our lives. Amina AITai (@aminaaltai) is a holistic business and career coach, proud immigrant, and chronic illness advocate. A leading coach to notable leaders, executives, and founders—Amina's mastery connects us to our brilliance and teaches us to live and lead from it each day. As a woman of color of Iraqi descent, she often works with marginalized communities to help them realize possibilities in a way that honors their particular lived experiences. She is the author of the forthcoming book, The Ambition Trap, with Penguin/The Open Field. Amina has partnered with progressive companies such as Google, Roku, Deloitte, Snap, Outdoor Voices, NYU, and HUGE. She's an Entrepreneur Magazine expert-in-residence and a Forbes contributor, and she was named one of Success Magazine's Women of Influence. Additionally, she's been featured in goop, Well+Good, The New York Times, Yahoo, NBC, and more. Learn more or sign up for 1:1 coaching with Amina. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenna Parker for lending your voice to our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com, or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco unpacks the hottest new personal finance trend of loud budgeting with frugality experts Jen Smith and Jill Sirianni from the Frugal Friends podcast. Jen and Jill delve into their stories: what prompted them to begin their frugal journeys, how they've changed their relationship to frugality along the way, and some of their frugal fumbles.  Jen and Jill tackle and debunk widespread myths about frugality head-on, from the false belief that being frugal is only for folks who are cheap and wealthy to reframing how frugality is not about deprivation but prioritizing what we value and being mindful of how we use our individual and shared resources.  Jen Smith & Jill Sirianni are co-hosts of the top-rated Frugal Friends Podcast. With over 300 episodes and 5 million downloads, Frugal Friends is changing how the world thinks about frugality. Jen uses her background in financial journalism to seek topics that help people overcome impulse spending and reach their financial goals. Jill is a licensed clinical social worker who enjoys exploring the connections between our money behaviors and mental health. Together, they're helping people become better stewards of their money, time, space, and natural resources. For more insights from Jen and Jill, tune in to their "Frugal Friends" podcast, sign up for their email newsletter, The Friendlette, and follow along on Instagram (@frugalfriendspodcast). And lastly, here is a picture of Jill's wedding dress mishap. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Ramsey Yount and Andrew Howard for lending your voice to our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, we dive deep into the intertwined realms of financial health and personal growth with our esteemed guest, Kristan Sargeant. Kristan shares the transformative power of accessing the unconscious to unlock healing and potential. Touching on the entanglement of money, guilt, and shame, Kristan unveils how these emotions often dwell in our shadow selves. Our host Paco reveals her personal shadow exploration journey, with Kristan advising the embrace of one's ambitions without guilt. The conversation further delves into overcoming fears tied to career prospects, the merits of seeking coaching over traditional psychotherapy, and introspective anecdotes about the power of the subconscious. Kristan (@kristansargeant) is a coach and therapist with a passion for helping people identify and transmute the blocks to their potential and full self-expression. She works in the tradition of her mentors and collaborators, Phil Stutz and Barry Michels, co-authors of the New York Times bestsellers The Tools and Coming Alive. She brings an action-oriented, tools-based approach to her work with individuals and groups globally, with an emphasis on and deep love for Shadow work. She leads webinars and workshops internationally and has collaborated with Goop, The Annenberg Foundation, The Omega Institute, Toms Shoes, AIM Youth Mental Health, The Awakened Man, 74Podcast, Clever Creative, Heroic, and more. In a former life, she was an entrepreneur, three-time TEDxWomen producer, and co-founder of The Guild, a women's leadership collective. She received her BA from Columbia University and holds a master's in psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. Upcoming Retreats: Omega Retreat Jul 14, 2024 Ojai Retreat Feb 28, 2024 - Mar 3, 2024 A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenn Pablo for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this compelling episode of Weird Finance, Madeline Pendleton, the dynamic owner of the vintage clothing company Tunnel Vision and TikTok's "Gen Z's Aunt Madeline," dives deep into the complexities of financial control, economic destiny, and the interplay between personal agency and systemic forces. Madeline shares her personal journey of overcoming poverty, the illusory nature of the American dream, and the struggles of her generation during and following the Great Recession. She offers an honest reflection on the limitations of hard work in achieving success and dispels the myth of American exceptionalism. With insights from her book, "I Survived Capitalism and All I Got was this Lousy T-Shirt," Madeline discusses the power of small, controllable actions over one's finances and the importance of focusing on joy and pleasure within the confines of a tight budget. Moreover, Madeline touches on the challenge of ethical entrepreneurship within the market system, the role of marketing in consumerism, and her preference for durable synthetic fibers in her designs. Throughout the conversation, Madeline emphasizes the need to redirect societal priorities from military spending to addressing homelessness and hunger, while promoting a life that cherishes simplicity, community, and the little things that make us happy. Madeline Pendleton is the founder of Tunnel Vision and hosts a podcast about surviving life, love, and capitalism called "Pick Me Up, I'm Scared." She recently wrote a book about her life and experiences with money called "I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt". TikTok @madeline_pendleton Twitter: @jeangreige Instagram: @madelinependleton A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to my friends, Samantha McVey and Anney Reese, the Stuff Mom Never Told You Podcast hosts, for lending us their voices for our special PSA. The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco speaks with Patrick Hicks of Trust and Will about the ins and outs of estate planning. Patrick explains why it's crucial for everyone—not just the wealthy—to understand wills, trusts, and probate. He debunks the common misconception that trusts are strictly for the rich and shares invaluable insights into the evitable challenges, analysis, and decisions required for the proper preparation of an estate plan. Patrick also talks about his personal life journey, sharing anecdotes from his time as a volunteer firefighter and even his crazy decision to save quarters for a baseball game. Patrick is Head of Legal at Trust & Will (@trustandwill), serving as General Counsel and overseeing all attorney-related operations, including regulatory efforts and legal affairs. As a seasoned estate planning attorney, Patrick brings over a decade of knowledge and real-life taxation law experience to our service offerings. He holds a B.A. in Economics from Davidson College, a J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, and an LL.M in Taxation from the University of San Diego. Before joining Trust & Will, Patrick practiced law in the trusts and estates practice group of law firm Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP. While attending undergrad, Patrick served as a firefighter for the Davidson Fire Department. He lives in San Diego with his wife, dog, and three young children. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Michael “Frosti” Snow for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this insightful episode of Weird Finance, our guest Marsha Barnes takes listeners on a deep dive into personal finance, financial planning, and the emotional connections to money. Marsha shares her journey from banking to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing earnings over job titles. She shares the need for a shift in focus from job titles to salaries and long-term financial planning. Shouting out the significance of financial education, she encourages everyone to manage their finances wisely. Marsha talks about her role at the Finance Bar, her efforts to address the financial literacy gap and the emotional aspects of personal finance.  Marsha Barnes (@thefinancebar) is a sought-after personal finance expert, commentator, and Founder of The Finance Bar Members Club. Since launching The Finance Bar Members Club, she has believed that financial wellness should not be considered a luxury. With commitment and discipline, any willing person can turn their financial situation around. Her private financial wellness hub, The Finance Bar Members Club, is specially curated to help you master your money without the overwhelm. The club offers educational bundles on topics in personal finance to (re)build your money confidence, guides, and worksheets to start taking steps toward achieving your financial goals. To access various personal finance courses on budgeting and beyond, workbooks to practice your knowledge, and a community to support your financial wellness journey, enjoy a free one-month subscription to The Finance Bar Members Club. 2,500 free subscriptions are available, compliments of Secret Deodorant. Use code SecretMoneyMoves to access. This episode also features a segment called Ask Paco Anything. Thank you to our anonymous caller for submitting this week's question. If you'd like to ask Paco a question, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO or email your question to weirdfinancepod@gmail.com A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Ariel Lazarus and Bill Bittner for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco chats with lawyer and financial expert Aaron Thomas to discuss prenuptial agreements. Aaron shares his journey from skepticism to appreciation for prenups, emphasizing that they can be more than just a safety measure in case of divorce. He discusses the importance of financial transparency, explicit conversations, and predetermined rules, which can all contribute to a healthier, conflict-free marriage. Aaron also takes a deep dive into the world of postnuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements, explaining why more couples should consider these options. He even shares some personal insights from his own prenup, which includes provisions for handling potential financial disagreements and counseling. Whether you're contemplating marriage or already married, this episode will challenge your assumptions and make you rethink the financial aspects of your relationship. Aaron Thomas is a three-time winner of Atlanta's Best Divorce Attorney and one of the nation's top experts in family law issues. A graduate of Harvard Law School, Thomas has represented over 1,000 clients – including NBA hall of famers, Super Bowl winners, and Grammy award-winning artists – in a range of family law matters, including divorce, custody, child support, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. After years of helping clients navigate the demise of their toxic marriages, he decided to launch Prenups.com to help couples establish a solid financial foundation during engagement so they could prevent common marital disputes. Thomas regularly shares his expertise on podcasts and with other media outlets. His first book, The Prenup Prescription, was released in October 2023. This episode also features a segment called Slow and Steady with Leo by Leo Aquino (@queerandtranswealth), an award-winning author, poet, and anti-capitalist personal finance expert.  A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenna Parker and Andrew Parker for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Maya Lau to pierce the taboo surrounding money talks. They delve deep into Maya's journey from being an investigative journalist to starting her podcast, Other People's Pockets, a venture that allowed her to explore her guests' careers, including their finances. Together, they acknowledge the awkwardness and fear when discussing finances, transitioning career paths, valuing one's skills, and introducing personal finance discussions to the younger generation. The talk rounds up with Maya's insights about money, her regrets, and her hopes for the future.  Maya Lau (@itsmayamoney and @mayalau) is the creator, host, and executive producer of the podcast Other People's Pockets, produced by Pushkin Industries and Little Everywhere. She's an award-winning former investigative reporter for The Los Angeles Times and The Advocate newspaper in Louisiana. Her work led to the ouster of the warden of the notorious Angola prison in Louisiana and helped spur new laws that made police disciplinary files more transparent in California. This episode also features The Economic Outlook with financial astrologer Susan Gidel. Susan, our resident economic cosmonaut, does what many humans have done before us for thousands of years: she looks to the stars to understand our economic present and predict our financial futures. For more guidance from Susan, sign up for her Red Letter Trading Days newsletter. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenna and Andrew Parker for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco speaks with Joel Larsgaard about how his childhood experiences shaped his relationship with money and catalyzed his personal finance journey. Joel discusses the evolving world of podcasting, the dangers of having too much money, and the importance of reaching financial comfort - a point where money doesn't burden you with stress. He emphasizes the crucial role of personal values and preferences and the impact of childhood experiences on financial decisions. In a captivating conversation, Joel expresses concern over the rise of nihilism and hopelessness concerning the financial system among young people. He also shares his insights on the importance of financial education from an early age. Lastly, Joel explores the significance of investing in relationships and how this can influence personal financial health.  Joel Larsgaard has been obsessed with personal finance for more than 15 years now. Exploring the world of money and the impact that money decisions have on our everyday lives has always been more than just a job for Joel. It's his goal to see How to Money (@howtomoneypod) listeners & readers thrive by giving them the advice and tools they need to succeed and build wealth over the long haul. This episode also features The Price Report, a short segment with Michael “Frosti” Snow (@FrostiFresh), where he takes us on a journey, examining the cost of one thing in the hopes that it helps us better understand everything. This week, we're exploring the cost of   A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenna and Andrew Parker for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this thought-provoking episode of Weird Finance, Paco's conversation with Khe Hy reveals insights on issues that money can't resolve, such as the universal need to feel worthy of love and the influence of our environment on emotional well-being. Khe sheds light on the misconception about viewing home renovations as investments capable of yielding increased value single-handedly. They delve into the consequences of lifestyle creep, reflecting on Khe's personal experiences and how he addresses money and peace in his life. He tactfully discusses the psychological aspects of buying a house, its impact on fostering a sense of community, and protecting against regretful investment decisions. Further, he speaks candidly about his struggle with fame and wealth, his existential crisis, and his desire to explore deeper meanings of money. Khe underlines his unique approach to volatile financial markets and shares his outlook on the current housing situation in light of uncertain future circumstances. Listen in as Khe and Paco navigate these nuanced financial matters with remarkable depth and perspective. Khe Hy (@khemaridh) is the founder of RadReads (@radreadsco), an online academy that helps high-performers live a productive and examined life. RadReads provides guides, coaching, and trainings for over 30,000 professionals to help them regain free time, scale their impact, and make a little dent in the universe. Before founding RadReads, Khe spent 15 years working on Wall Street and was one of the youngest Managing Directors at BlackRock. He's been called Oprah for Millennials by CNN and the Wall Street Guru by Bloomberg, and his work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, TedX, Barrons, Time Magazine and Quartz. Check out Khe's Mindful Money Playbook. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Julia Menez about the world of travel hacking. Starting with the basics, Julia highlights the importance of being responsible with credit cards, advising listeners to start small and ensure balances are paid off monthly to reap maximum rewards. Julia shares her journey from actuary to successful travel hacker and podcast host, explaining how reading finance blogs and interest in points systems led to creating GeoBreeze Travel. As well as travel advice, she offers her unique perspective on finance, prompting listeners to embrace impermanence, enjoy what they have, and use their wealth for good. Julia explains her effective method of earning and burning points and talks about their Patreon, where members can nominate a charity for donations. Julia's story is not just about free travel, but also financial freedom, underscoring the value of living below one's means and disciplined investing. She finishes the episode by encouraging listeners to delight in their wealth and to find the balance between saving for the future and enjoying the present. Julia Menez (@geobreezetravel)  is a points strategy coach, speaker, and host of the Geobreeze Travel Podcast. After traveling to more than 30 countries before the age of 30 and saving thousands of dollars each year with points and miles, Julia distills the strategies from top award travelers around the world in the Geobreeze Travel podcast. She creates Instagram videos about credit card benefits such as trip protection and luxury travel opportunities. Through her podcast, Julia features a diverse roster of guests with traditionally underrepresented experiences in larger points and miles blogs and media. Her episodes often highlight women, first-generation travelers, and people of color. Julia has been a speaker for FinCon, a course instructor for Frequent Traveler University, and quoted in publications such as The New York Times, Money Magazine, Fodor's Travel, and Business Insider. Her podcast was nominated in the 2021 Plutus Awards for “Best New Personal Finance Podcast,” and she serves as a senior advisor for Bilt Rewards. Julia is available for comments and interviews regarding award travel, personal finance, entrepreneurship, and women in business. Check out Julia's free points 101 course here.  This episode also features Loose Change, a short segment where we ask folks to share their thoughts, feelings, and opinions about how we relate to money and one another. This week, we're exploring one purchase we've made that's had the biggest positive impact on your daily lives. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Andrew Howard and Ramsey Yount for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com, or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Michael Hershfield about the innovative concept behind Accrue, a co-branded savings wallet that aims to revolutionize how we save money.  Michael also addresses the lack of innovation in US saving options, the challenges American consumers face in effective savings, the personal experiences and beliefs that drove the creation of Accrue, and Michael and Paco's personal beliefs on buy now, pay later options for consumers. Michael is the Founder and CEO of Accrue Savings, the first in the “Save Now, Buy Later” category that addresses a critical gap in the shopping experience by providing a payment alternative that rewards consumers for saving. Accrue Savings has received nearly $30 million in funding from some of the biggest names in venture and commerce – including Tiger Global, Box Group, Aglaé Ventures (tech investment firm backed by Groupe Arnault), UPS CEO Carol Tomé and Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, Twelve Below, Red Sea Ventures and more. Before Accrue, Michael was an SVP of Sales at WeWork for more than three years and COO of Nucleus. This episode also features a segment called Stock Watch with Amanda Holden (@dumpster.doggy). In this segment, we'll follow a stock-picking competition between a dog named Henry, a cat named Hugo, and a human baby. If you'd like to learn more about investing from Amanda, sign up for her online course, Invested Development. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Ramsey Yount and Andrew Howards for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Leslie H Tayne about the daunting topic of being overwhelmed by debt. As a renowned expert in debt resolution and founder of her own law firm, Leslie shares her invaluable insights and advice on what to do when you find yourself drowning in debt, from identifying reputable debt settlement companies and avoiding scams to understanding the complexities of bankruptcy and federal student loans. Leslie H. Tayne, Esq. (@LeslieHTayneEsq,@lesliehtayne)  is an accomplished financial attorney and acclaimed author of "Life and Debt." With over two decades of experience, she founded Tayne Law Group, P.C. in 2001, focusing on innovative solutions for consumer and business debt challenges, avoiding bankruptcy. This effort established her as an expert, resulting in national and international client services. She has also shared her insights through notable media features and appearances on TV, radio, and podcasts. Beyond her legal achievements, Leslie, a single parent, actively contributes to her community, serving on the boards of the Guide Dog Foundation and America's VetDogs. Leslie Tayne's impactful legal career, client dedication, and community contributions have solidified her as an esteemed figure in both the legal and consumer finance realms. This episode also features The Economic Outlook with financial astrologer Susan Gidel. Susan, our resident economic cosmonaut, does what many humans have done before us for thousands of years: she looks to the stars to understand our economic present and predict our financial futures. For more guidance from Susan, sign up for her Red Letter Trading Days newsletter. A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Andrew Howard and Ramsey Young for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com, or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stay in touch and sign up for Paco's weekly email newsletter, The Nerdletter.  In this episode of Weird Finance, Paco talks to Dan Rooker about everything you need to know about making your student loan payments. Dan is an expert in the field and will be sharing valuable insights on income-driven repayment plans, recertification requirements, the benefits of consulting a student loan professional and the double-consolidation loophole. We'll also dive into Public Service Loan Forgiveness, the importance of researching career paths before pursuing grad school, and how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of student loan forgiveness programs. Plus, we'll cover the latest updates on the SAVE plan and the forbearance period. So, if you're struggling with navigating your student loan debt or just looking for some expert advice, this episode is a must-listen.  Dan Rooker is a CFP®, CSLP® and a Sr. Consultant at Student Loan Planner (@studentloanplanner). Nearly every day, Dan guides borrowers through Student Loan Planner, figuring out how they can tackle their student loans with less anxiety. This is Dan's version of “surgery.” He also runs Rook Financial, a subscription-based virtual financial planning practice for healthcare practitioners who have student debt, meeting with borrowers monthly to go to the financial gym — and that is Dan's version of “preventative” care. For more general information about student loan debt, check out the Student Loan Planner blog. This episode also features a segment called Ask Paco Anything. Thank you to Ashely H. for their question about student loans and credit reports. Here are instructions on how you can dispute an error on your credit report.  If you'd like to ask Paco a question, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO or email your question to weirdfinancepod@gmail.com A special thanks to the talented and generous Ramsey Yount for producing, editing, and sound designing this episode.  Thank you to Jenna Parker for lending your voice for our special PSA.  The theme music was written and performed by Andrew Parker, Jenna Parker, and Paco de Leon. If you'd like to contact us about the show or ask Paco a question about finances, call our hotline at 1-833-ASK-PACO, email us at weirdfinancepod (at) gmail.com or submit your questions here. We'd also love your listener feedback about the show; here's a short survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.