Work Your Wealth Podcast

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The issues women have been facing over the past 18 months Examples of how women have been disproportionately impacted during the pandemic Where women started in the labor force compared to where we are today The impact of the 19th amendment on women in the workforce The long-term impact of the gender wage gap Comparing the changes men and women have faced as a result of COVID-19 The pressure that we perceived and now is being voiced by society due to the pandemic The average cost for childcare and how it relates to other expenses How the pandemic impacted accessibility and feasibility of childcare for many families How women of color have faced even more challenges through the pandemic Long-term financial impacts that these changes are going to have on women Small steps you can take to make that financial progress How Social Security is affected when women have to leave the workforce Why the savings gap is exacerbated by women's longevity A few ideas on how to make progress for women A few financial considerations as we move forward with the pandemic LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Work Your Wealth Book Abacus Wealth Partners Book a consult with Abacus Wealth Partners How the Pandemic Slashed Years of Women's Workforce Progress LET'S CONNECT! Twitter Instagram

One of the best parts of launching this podcast is to talk to others about money topics and addressing concerns they’ve had or seen. Today is an important episode in the direction of the Work Your Wealth podcast and where you might continue to find financial resources. Today I'm talking about 5 important lessons I’ve learned over the past four years through my journey with this podcast and what the future will hold for me and Abacus Wealth Partners.   HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The timeline of the Work Your Wealth Podcast The reason behind launching the podcast and writing the Work Your Wealth book The 5 lessons I’ve learned in doing the Work Your Wealth podcast The potential rewards that could come with putting yourself out there and taking risks The importance of doing what you love Why you have to recognize when it is time to evolve The one person that will always look out for you most Where you can continue to find the Work Your Wealth content and where you can continue to connect with Mary Beth LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Work Your Wealth Book Abacus Wealth Partners Book a consult with Abacus Wealth Partners LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

Dasarte Yarnway is the Founder & Managing Director of Berknell Financial Group, an innovative independent wealth management firm focused on helping millennials and seasoned investors design their best lives. Since the firm's inception, Berknell Financial Group has become one of the most notable millennial-led financial services organizations. In an industry that focuses on revenue and dollars-invested, Dasarte realized that a firm's value is created through how they could invest in their clients. Through this, The Wealth Bridge™ , Private Client Groups and Berknell Athletes were created. With his passion for listening to his clients greatest concerns and applying realistic solutions, Dasarte has become the go-to partner for millennials, growing families and seasoned investors alike. Berknell encapsulates this approach in their motto: Advice With You In Mind. Coined a “financial thought leader” and Guru by NerdWallet and Financial Planning Magazine, Dasarte believes in meeting you where you are. He offers advice and insight through his weekly podcast, The Young Money Podcast, three books (Dating Benji 2016, Young Money 2018, Pay Me In Equity 2019) and weekly blog. His prayer is that you may design your wealth on your terms.   HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The story of how Dasarte got into the financial world The group Dasarte likes to empower around their finances How he built an ecosystem of financial knowledge for a community of people Why Dasarte embodies a mindset of servant leadership Applying the R.I.I.T.E. planning process The reason Dasarte has applied the lighthouse method in all that he did What the bigger picture for Berknell Financial looks like The changes Dasarte has made to build his business more efficiently The responsibility Dasarte feels to improving the financial industry The hardest business lesson learned by Dasarte The niche that Berknell Financial is continuing to reach The biggest thing many clients don’t understand  The unique challenges athletes face with financial decisions Who the real hero is in the advisor-client relationship and why LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Investopedia Top 100 Financial Advisors 2020 Books By Dasarte Yarnway Young Money Podcast GET SOCIAL WITH DASARTE AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Website Twitter

John Eing is a partner and financial advisor at Abacus Wealth Partners.  As a financial advisor, John is passionate about simplifying and demystifying finances for his clients, and creating sound financial strategies allowing them to do what they love most.  He is also a member of the firm’s M&A team and investment committee.  Prior to joining Abacus, John was the Controller of Wells Fargo's $30B asset-based lending group.  He holds an Executive MBA from the Anderson School of Management at UCLA, a BA in Economics from UC Berkeley, is a Certified Public Accountant, and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. In his free time, John and his wife, Andrea, enjoy spending time with their two children Nathan (8) and Mia (4).  In his free, free time John is an avid fan of the Los Angeles Lakers. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Abacus Wealth Partners is focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion Why you should do everything that makes you feel uncomfortable in business The difference between diversity and inclusion The path that led John to financial planning and Abacus Wealth Partners How to provide a space to openly discuss diversity, equity and inclusion in the work environment The benefits seen at Abacus with the cultural lunch and learns Diversity gaps in the financial industry How understanding your client’s cultural background can make you a better advisor A hurdle for financial education across different nationalities How to turn the diversity, equity and inclusion conversation into action Why personal finance must be taught in schools What progress might look like when expanding diversity in the financial industry LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Economic vs Financial Planning Education Survey Save More Tomorrow by Shlomo Benartzi The Digital Nervous System by Bill Gates GET SOCIAL WITH JOHN AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Website Email Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Facebook

Are You Better or Worse off Financially In 2020? One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to field and answer questions from clients and readers all around the country. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I’ll be taking time to address and answer questions I’ve come across from readers and clients throughout my career. Today I’m answering the above question. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Why the end of the year is my favorite time of year for clients Questions I consistently receive as the year is closing out A way to gauge if you are better or worse off financially this year First step in measuring your financial progress The measurement to use when evaluating your financial health How to calculate your net worth A good way to evaluate your debt situation for the year The check you should be doing on your debt every January Why you should review your spending throughout the year How your savings goals play into your financial health Different savings vehicles you can utilize to grow your net worth A few things you should consider when talking about your retirement savings The role a change in income can play in figuring out if you’re financially better off this year How “lifestyle creep” could potentially hurt your financial health Why employer benefits must be evaluated each year LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Abacus Wealth Partners Mary Beth LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

Ariel Ward, CFP® joined Workable Wealth in 2018 as a Financial Planner and in March of 2019, made the move to Abacus Wealth Partners with me as a Financial Planner. She and I work closely together on our clients. She has 11 years of experience in the field of personal financial services and in helping clients develop financial clarity. She is passionate about helping professionals understand their financial lives and make better decisions with their money. She enjoys working with clients in the aviation industry to make the most of their employee benefits and map out a plan for personal financial strength. She is a member of NAPFA, the XY Planning Network and the Financial Planners Association. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The most common financial concern seen with entrepreneurs The retirement plan options available to small business owners Items to be aware of if utilizing a SEP IRA Some of the numbers associated with an individual 401(k) The best plan to start with if you have employees  How much you should be saving into your retirement account  The type of insurance a small business owner should consider How a disability policy works and why you need it If you’re thinking group policy, here are some options as a small business owner Why you should have life insurance and who you are protecting The type of life insurance policy you should get What a keyman insurance policy will do for your business Reasons you should have a business continuity plan The two big ticket items we see people and business owners drag their feet on Why you should have professional liability insurance The benefits of utilizing a financial planner through all these decisions LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Freelancers Union Workable Wealth Blog post GET SOCIAL WITH ARIEL AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Workable Wealth Website Ariel’s e-mail Instagram

Naseema is the founder of Financially Intentional, a platform about personal finance and living life intentionally. She discusses how taking control of her finances has enabled her to overcome bankruptcy, divorce, and break the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck. She shares her lessons along her path to help others benefit from the freedoms of financial independence. Outside of encouraging people to get their financial act together, Naseema is a mother and Labor and Delivery Nurse. Though making six figures for years, she struggled with money. Finally realizing she couldn't out-earn her financial ignorance, she knew she had to make some changes. By shifting her mindset around money, being consistent and intentional, She has paid off $1 million in debt and grew a six-figure net worth in three years without living in deprivation. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Naseema made a move from nursing to a finance The misconception many people have about finances Where to start in order to move your finances in the right direction Steps to set yourself up for financial success How Nassema paid off $1,000,000 in debt The asset she sold to push her back on track financially Steps you can take to improve your financial life The flexibility Naseema was able to create by getting her finances in order How to keep yourself committed to your financial goals What it looks like to anti-budget How to keep your financial life in balance The importance of building a good team around you to continue to drive your passion How to make legacy building second nature in your life The benefit of having a financial planner as an accountability partner LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Student Loan Planning Podcast Episode GET SOCIAL WITH NASEEMA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Naseema's Website Naseema's e-mail LinkedIn Twitter Instagram (Financially Intentional) Instagram (Nurses on Fire Podcast) Facebook (Financially Intentional) Facebook (Nurses on Fire Podcast) Pinterest TikTok

Ariel Ward, CFP® joined Workable Wealth in 2018 as a Financial Planner and in March of 2019, made the move to Abacus Wealth Partners with me as a Financial Planner. She and I work closely together on our clients. She has 11 years of experience in the field of personal financial services and in helping clients develop financial clarity. She is passionate about helping professionals understand their financial lives and make better decisions with their money. She enjoys working with clients in the aviation industry to make the most of their employee benefits and map out a plan for personal financial strength. She is a member of NAPFA, the XY Planning Network and the Financial Planners Association. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Options to save after you’ve maxed out your 401k 401k limits for singles and married couples The definition of a backdoor Roth IRA and some considerations around it Income limitations for Roth IRA What you should have set up before doing a backdoor Roth IRA Why you should work with a financial planner if interested in the backdoor Roth Tax considerations when utilizing the backdoor Roth IRA When to begin contributing to a 529 Plan and how much What to look for when investing in a taxable account What capital gains taxes will look like based on income and time How to take advantage of a Health Savings Account (HSA) Some ages to keep in mind if you are utilizing an HSA How you should prioritize your savings goals GET SOCIAL WITH ARIEL AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Workable Wealth Website Ariel’s e-mail Instagram

As both a tax attorney and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Brian provides comprehensive financial planning to LGBTQ entrepreneurs who run mission-driven businesses. Entrepreneurs hold a special place in his heart. He spent a decade defending them against the IRS as a tax attorney and has become one himself as an advisor. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Brian evolved from a tax attorney into a CFP™ Navigating unique financial needs for the LGBTQ community The impact of marriage on a couples’ finances Estate planning challenges for domestic partnerships The financial paperwork that should be in place for every couple How to navigate different mindsets around money Financial planning tools for future family members What it means to run a mission-driven business How to mitigate  “shiny object syndrome” Where to begin if you want to create change in the world The best way to measure your passion around an issue How to leverage your unique expertise to make an impact LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Brian Thompson’s Forbes page George Kinder Process Klontz Money Script Inventory GET SOCIAL WITH BRIAN AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Brian's Website Brian's e-mail LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

A sought-after clinician, consultant, speaker, and writer, Dr. Joy Lere is a psychologist who practices at the intersection of behavior and business, specializing in work on the merger of money, mind, and meaning. Her signature work fuses Freud, Frankl, and the world of finance. She partners with bright, impact-driven, motivated professionals motivated to develop richer, more resonant lives. With one foot firmly planted in the field of psychology and the other waltzing down Wall Street, she works as a behavioral finance consultant for the financial services industry. She has previously served as an Associate Clinical Professor of Clinical Psychology at George Washington University and has held clinical and research positions at Children's National Medical Center, Penn Medicine Princeton Health, and the Department of Defense. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Joy got into the world of finance How people are handling their financial lives in the current state of the world Why it makes sense to continue self-care during the pandemic What self-care actually means (and looks like) The reasons being a perfectionist could be harming you Why giving yourself grace could alter in your life How social media is hurting you Ways to navigate the roller coaster of up and down days Questions to ask yourself during this time to move you forward How to simultaneously practice empathy and self-care Why it's important to take time for yourself (even when it seems as if there is no time)   LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Spilling the Secrets of the Shelter-in-Place Joneses   GET SOCIAL WITH JOY AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Joy's Website Joy's e-mail LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to discuss some of the money moves we’ve made in our household knowing clients and readers are going through similar things. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address how we approached the different money situations and the results of our decisions. Today I'm talking about what has happened since the merger with Abacus Wealth Partners, what Workable Wealth looks like now, how we’ve been getting through the pandemic and changes I’ve made to align my career with my values. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: An update on where things are for Workable Wealth Why it’s okay to pivot, even during a pandemic Career details about my merger into Abacus Wealth Partners and how things are going What prompted me to pivot and merge with Abacus Wealth Partners What I recognized about my business and career to expand the value I was providing Things we built after the transition What Workable Wealth has turned into after the merger What it looks like to make broader changes in the financial industry The decision that was made to align my career with my values How I felt I could make a bigger impact with clients and in the industry   LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Episode 88: Business Transitions as an Entrepreneur: How We Decided to Merge Workable Wealth LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

Summer is here and with all that is going on in the world I have decided to take a break from the podcast. The podcast will continue though! We will be back in the fall to provide you with some more great content, some amazing guests and additional tips on how you can continue to work your wealth! Until then, continue to go back listen to the over 100 episodes we've logged so far and reach out if you're looking for a financial planner than can help you with your money questions. ENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify or Google Play. Leave us a review in iTunes. Have a money question you want me to answer? Submit one here.

This week I sat down again with Beth Greulich, CFP® to talk through how to financially plan for your kids to go to college and some tricks along the way. Beth is a Certified Financial Planner™, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and Partner at Abacus.  After a career in market research, she took some time off to raise a family. As she considered what to do next, she was driven by the memory of her grandmother and her desire to help others who lacked confidence with their money management skills. As a financial advisor, she works closely with her clients, many of whom are women, to develop a unique and personalized financial plan that solves their specific needs. It’s extremely important to her that each of her clients clearly understand and can visualize the different paths/options that lead them to their financial independence. There are many forks in the road of life, so it’s important and extremely empowering to understand the long-term impact of each decision along the way. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The main concern people have around funding education for their children The first step in planning for college for your kids When to start exploring college campuses The importance of exploring college interests early The best time to open a 529 plan What it looks like to set up a 529 plan before your child is born Where a college fund should rank on your financial priorities What should be funded before the college savings account  Considerations when thinking about college financial aid The most important things for kids to keep in mind while in college When to speak to your kid about financial aid available for college How subsidized and unsubsidized loans can come into play The amount of loan a student can take before having a cosigner How to help your children feel empowered when making college decisions Shop around and negotiate! Here’s how How to financially plan for college if you’re unsure if you child will even attend What to do if you have a surplus in your 529 plan GET SOCIAL WITH BETH AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Abacus Website Beth’s e-mail Abacus Facebook Abacus Twitter Abacus LinkedIn

This week I sat down again with Wende Headley, CFP® to talk through some financial planning needs for women and some of the hurdles we tend to face. Wende is a Certified Financial Planner™,  Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and Partner at Abacus.  She leads the firm-wide Women & Money initiative, which provides resources and education about the broad range of financial issues faced by women. In addition to her primary role as wealth manager for her clients, she regularly speaks at local women’s and professional organizations, hosts investment discussion circles with women in Pasadena, and serves as an AARP Tax Aide volunteer for low-income seniors. She earned an MBA from Harvard University, a BA in Economics and French from the University of Michigan, and a Certificate in Financial Planning from UCLA. She enjoys spending quality time with her husband and children. Whenever possible, you might find her skiing, running, doing a triathlon, volunteering at her kids’ school, or attempting to get that next book read for her Book Club. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: A big issue women tend to face around money Why it’s challenging for women to take action in their financial lives The best way to tackle money organization in your life How a financial planner can help when you’re feeling stuck How to take the first step in getting organized with your money The different approaches Wende takes with her clients What goals clients come to Wende with around their money The biggest money topic women tend to struggle with How Wende engages with women who don’t normally handle the finances in a relationship The motivation for change for women around their finances LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Women in Money Abacus Page GET SOCIAL WITH WENDE AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Abacus Website Wende’s e-mail Abacus Facebook Abacus Twitter Abacus LinkedIn

This week I sat down again with Wende Headley, CFP® to talk about how to align your career with your values by giving yourself permission to make the pivots and changes you want to make.  Wende is a Certified Financial Planner™,  Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and Partner at Abacus.  She leads the firm-wide Women & Money initiative, which provides resources and education about the broad range of financial issues faced by women. In addition to her primary role as wealth manager for her clients, she regularly speaks at local women’s and professional organizations, hosts investment discussion circles with women in Pasadena, and serves as an AARP Tax Aide volunteer for low-income seniors. She earned an MBA from Harvard University, a BA in Economics and French from the University of Michigan, and a Certificate in Financial Planning from UCLA. She enjoys spending quality time with her husband and children. Whenever possible, you might find her skiing, running, doing a triathlon, volunteering at her kids’ school, or attempting to get that next book read for her Book Club. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Challenges that dual career couples face The career and family decisions that led Wende to becoming a financial planner The transitional challenges of full time employee to full time stay-at-home parent and then back to full time employee again An insight into discussions Wende had with her husband before the transition How communication played a critical role in each career shift What it took to become comfortable with all of the changes The best way to view your life and career to allow yourself to breathe Wende does this to reduce the “noise” in her life A great place to start if you’re struggling to give yourself permission in your life and career What a values conversation with yourself or your spouse can do for your life How often you should check in with life goals for you and your spouse What conversations to have with little ones while going through career transitions Why it’s important for you and your partner to support each other when discussing career moves to your children The most impactful way to create empowerment around your money The benefits of understanding your own risk factor The comfort of having a financial plan B or plan C LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Couples That Work GET SOCIAL WITH WENDE AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Abacus Website Wende’s e-mail

This week I sat down again with Lindsey Woodward, CFP® to talk about how to align your money with your values by investing intentionally.  Lindsey is a financial advisor at Abacus Wealth Partners, which provides fee-only, comprehensive financial advice to help individuals, families and foundations. Lindsey is dedicated to helping the people she works with align their money with their goals and values. She serves on the Abacus Wealth Partners Investment Committee and is a co-leader of the Los Angeles chapter of WISE (Women Investing for a Sustainable Economy). HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What is meant by “values informed” investing Where to get started with investing intentionally How Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) play a role in investing The reason a portfolio is screened Comparing and contrasting divestment, investment and engagement How to engage with companies you own shares in Tools for you when investing intentionally Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) portfolios explained and where they derive from Similarities and differences of ESG and SRI portfolios Different platforms and portfolios you can invest intentionally Action items to increase ESG options within your 401k What to consider when using your brokerage accounts with ESG portfolios The different types of holdings you should have in your portfolio The biggest benefit of investment diversification How to align your money with your values if you don’t have money to invest right now How you can bank responsibly through a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) How microloans play in an overall financial strategy A myth attached to ESG funds LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: As You Sow Opportunity Finance Network CDFI Locator Map Kiva GET SOCIAL WITH LINDSEY AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Abacus Website Lindsey’s e-mail

This week I sat down with Laura Morganelli, CFP® to talk about how to handle employee stock options and some of the things to be aware of if and when you decide to exercise those options. Laura joined Abacus Wealth Partners in 2015. With over 7 years of experience in personal finance, her main goal is to bring a sense of peace in people’s financial lives. She recognizes that financial planning and investment management topics can sometimes feel complex and scary and is passionate about providing guidance and education in simple, human, and enjoyable ways. Laura lives in Philadelphia. When she is not nerding out over Excel spreadsheets or burying her nose in a book, she can be found at the dog park with her pup, Bella, working out, enjoying happy hour and trying new restaurants with friends, or traveling to new cities.  Family is also important to her, considering their influence is a big part of who she is today. As a child her parents often told her “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” Those words have stuck with her over the years. Her eagerness to build knowledge, coupled with her love of meeting new people, has made financial planning the perfect fit. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What stock options are and what you can or can’t do with them Exercise price, stock price, vesting dates, grant dates, and more explained What exercising your stock options looks like Different avenues for exercising your shares The role taxes play upon exercising your options What a spread is and how it can impact your taxes and compensation The difference between non-qualified and incentive stock options Capital gains tax considerations Considerations for holding versus selling options A common misconception to be aware of The benefits of being awarded stock options and how they can enhance your life Vesting schedules What to be cautious of regarding expiration dates GET SOCIAL WITH LAURA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE LinkedIn Laura’s e-mail Facebook

This week I sat down again with Ariel Ward, CFP® to talk about how to become a millionaire and some of the small steps you can be taking now to help you down the road. Ariel Ward, CFP® joined Workable Wealth in 2018 as a Financial Planner and in March of this year, made the move to Abacus Wealth Partners with me as a Financial Planner. She and I work closely together on our clients. She has 11 years of experience in the field of personal financial services and in helping clients develop financial clarity. She is passionate about helping professionals understand their financial lives and make better decisions with their money. Ariel is married to a pilot and spends as much time as possible exploring the US with her husband and 2 children. She enjoys working with clients in the aviation industry to make the most of their employee benefits and map out a plan for personal financial strength. She is a member of NAPFA, the XY Planning Network and the Financial Planners Association. Ariel works virtually out of Charlotte, NC. She enjoys North Carolina’s mountains, beaches and everything in between. In her free time you can catch her walking to one of Charlotte’s excellent breweries, playing Scrabble or building Lego houses with her kids. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The first thing to do to start growing your net worth The question I like to ask all of my clients to help judge progress How being debt conscious can be an important step toward millionaire status How student loans play into your plan of millionaire status How critical employer-sponsored retirement savings accounts can be Leveraging a Roth IRA or a backdoor Roth IRA If you’re paired up, is maxing out two 401(k)s enough for retirement A few items millionaires have leveraged to get to that status Other areas to focus on beyond investments when working to become a millionaire One of your most valuable assets to help you increase your net worth How lifestyle inflation can delay your ability to become a millionaire What a $5,000 raise could do to your net worth over 20 years A fear small business owners have that could be hurting their millionaire status Where a budget plays into your millionaire goal The difference between saving a percentage of income vs. a specific dollar amount LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW The Millionaire Next Door GET SOCIAL WITH ARIEL AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Workable Wealth Website Ariel’s e-mail Instagram

One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to discuss some of the money moves we’ve made in our household knowing clients and readers are going through similar things. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address how we approached the different money situations and the results of our decisions. Today I'm talking about the what we are doing as we stay home due to COVID-19 and how we are still managing self-care and family time.  HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What the headlines around COVID-19 are doing to your fears and anxiety Great resources on COVID-19, benefits to be aware of, etc. How we are handling the next several weeks in our household If you have little ones at home, the importance of sticking to a schedule Ideas for the little ones to keep them occupied while they are at home Why you should have on hand some creature comforts The important financial things you should be doing as COVID-19 spreads and the market reacts At a time like this, why you should be reviewing your current expenses Adjustments you could make to your personal and retirement accounts The importance of staying physically active during a “stay-at-home” mandate How to continue to show gratitude in this challenging time A few books you could pick up while staying at home How to teach your little ones about purchasing power and make it fun Things you should focus on during over the next several weeks and months Some of the ways the employees at Abacus are practicing self-care Ideas on how to serve others, even from home LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention World Health Organization New York Times resource Peloton Master Class COVID-19 resource page presented by Abacus Abacus Wealth Partners Mary Beth LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram question you want me to answer? Submit one here.

This week I sat down with fellow CFP® Roger Whitney to discuss planning for retirement, some dos and don’ts and baby steps along the way to set you up for success. Roger Whitney, CFP®, CIMA®, CPWA®, AIF® is a cofounder of WWK Wealth Advisors and host of the award-winning podcast The Retirement Answer Man. He has been a financial planner for over 27 years. Each day he “walks life” with individuals and families, helping them plan for, transition into, and live out their life after a working career. He is a former instructor of retirement planning and employee benefits for the Certified Financial Planner certificate program at the University of Texas at Arlington. He has also taught wealth management at Texas Christian University Extended Education. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What does retirement mean for you 4 choices that are usually presented to fill the retirement gap Why people avoid planning to be a retiree What a traditional retirement consist of The inspiration people need to take action on long-term planning The question people generally have about retiring Understanding the W.A.M. process of retirement planning How you should view retirement while you’re in the accumulation phase of life The approach you don’t want to take when planning to retire The group that struggles most with figuring out what a life after work looks like The best way to make the transition from full-time worker to retiree Why you need clarity and intension around your money decisions How to utilize 6 month sprints to achieve your money goals Finding the balance of enjoying life now and preparing for life after work Why you should focus on the journey and not just the end game LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW The Retirement Answer Man Podcast GET SOCIAL WITH GREG AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Roger's e-mail Roger’s Website Instagram Twitter

This week I sat down with bookkeeper, Greg Higdon to discuss the importance of having a bookkeeper and what working with one can do for your business. Greg Higdon is the Founder of Grow the Books, a bookkeeping company for small businesses. With over 13 years of experience in education, he teaches his clients so they are empowered and armed with a clearer understanding of what their numbers mean for their business decisions. When he isn't balancing books and helping clients you can find him roasting coffee, drinking coffee, and reading about coffee. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The importance of understanding your profit and loss statement What a bookkeeper can do for you The difference between gross and net income How bookkeeping plays a part in your taxes The tax challenges you’ll face if you don't keep up with your books Bookkeeping issues Greg tends to see when they come to him for help Some of the terms on your income statement and what they mean for your business The benefits of giving your business income and expenses subcategories How to know how much your business should be spending in marketing, personnel, sales, etc. How often you should be reviewing your profit and loss reports Comparing hiring out versus doing your own books What to look for when hiring a bookkeeper If you want to do your books on your own, do this to make things easier on you LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Grow the Books QuickBooks Xero Mint GET SOCIAL WITH GREG AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Greg's e-mail Facebook Instagram Pinterest

This week I sat down again with Ariel Ward, CFP® to talk about how to know if you can afford for one parent to stay home. Ariel Ward, CFP® joined Workable Wealth in 2018 as a Financial Planner and in March of this year, made the move to Abacus Wealth Partners with me as a Financial Planner. She and I work closely together on our clients. She has 11 years of experience in the field of personal financial services and in helping clients develop financial clarity. She is passionate about helping professionals understand their financial lives and make better decisions with their money. Ariel is married to a pilot and spends as much time as possible exploring the US with her husband and 2 children. She enjoys working with clients in the aviation industry to make the most of their employee benefits and map out a plan for personal financial strength. She is a member of NAPFA, the XY Planning Network and the Financial Planners Association. Ariel works virtually out of Charlotte, NC. She enjoys North Carolina’s mountains, beaches and everything in between. In her free time you can catch her walking to one of Charlotte’s excellent breweries, playing Scrabble or building Lego houses with her kids. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How to financially navigate having one parent stay at home with the kids The significance of knowing what your family expenses are A few things people tend to forget when looking at monthly expenses Expenses that might go away with one spouse at home The budgets we establish for our clients when one person stays home Why you should discuss how long the spouse will stay at home before returning to the workforce, if ever Ideas for the working parent to increase income or flexibility Options for the stay-at-home parent to still bring in an income What to consider when it comes to employee benefits for the parent staying at home How staying at home might change what you need for disability or life insurance Changes that could take place with your investments by having one parent stay home The conversations we have with clients when considering one parent staying at home The most important question to consider when making the change A couple of red flags we’ve seen when looking at cash flow The unique story Brian and I have about having one parent stay home The agreement Ariel worked out with her employer to allow her to stay at home What happens when the at-home parent is trying to do too much GET SOCIAL WITH ARIEL AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Workable Wealth Website Ariel’s e-mail Instagram

What Should Your Net Worth Be? One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to discuss some of the money moves we’ve made in our household knowing clients and readers are going through similar things. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address how we approached the different money situations and the results of our decisions. Today I'm talking about how to track your net worth and some tools and tips to move the needle for your net worth in the right direction.  HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: One of the most common questions I get about finances The best way to do a health check of your finances How often you should be checking on your net worth The thing your net worth can tell you over the years The place to start when calculating your net worth Assets and liabilities that you should factor in to your net worth Why you shouldn’t compare your net worth with other friends, family, etc. The average net worth for Americans in their mid 30s A big reason the average net worth for a 35 year old is where it is Another way to evaluate your financial health (especially if you are in your 30s) The amount of savings you should have when you reach age 30 What your net worth should look like at age 40 A quick equation to analyze your ideal net worth Understanding how much you need set aside for retirement Things that negatively impact your net worth and how to improve on it If you haven’t started investing, here’s where to start A few resources to help you get started towards savings A few budget savings allocations that can help improve your net worth Two methods to paying off your debt How we keep track of savings goals in our household If you want to go big on growing your net worth, here are a few tips LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Listen Money Matters Financial Samurai You Need A Budget Website Mint Abacus Wealth Partners Mary Beth LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to discuss some of the money moves we’ve made in our household knowing clients and readers are going through similar things. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address how we approached the different money situations and the results of our decisions. Today I'm talking about the amazing and positive impact gratitude can have on your finances.  HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How to have a more fulfilling life through gratitude The way gratitude can positively effect your own finances What gratitude can prevent in your financial life Things to be cautious of that can bust your budget When we feel like we have less than what we need, we tend to do this How gratitude can help you curb your impulse spending Where being grateful for what you currently have can lead you When was the last time you made a financial decision because you were afraid/frustrated with your current situation How chasing dollars can impact your life in other areas Finding the balance between life fulfillment and needing more stuff How to approach a new financial opportunity to maximize the impact it will have The dangers of making financial decisions out of fear How to find fulfillment and growth in your finances Understanding if your spending is in line with your values The effects gratitude can have on your emotional, mental and physical health The snowball effect of gratitude and giving The positive effects of approaching life with abundance The best way to avoid making financial decisions out of fear A way to approach financial decisions when you desire to help others Do this to create a gratitude focused financial plan The number of Americans stressed out about money regardless of income level The importance of reflection on the gratitude that you feel The impact an attitude of gratitude will have on your finances LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Abacus Wealth Partners Mary Beth LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

Are You Better or Worse off Financially This Year? One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to discuss some of the money moves we’ve made in our household knowing clients and readers are going through similar things. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address how we approached the different money situations and the results of our decisions. Today I'm talking about some ways to evaluate how your financial health measures up to where it was a year ago. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Why the end of the year is my favorite time of year for clients Questions I get all the time as the year is closing out A way to gauge if you are better or worse off financially this year First step in measuring your financial progress The measurement to use when evaluating your financial health How to calculate your net worth A good way to evaluate your debt situation for the year The check you should be doing on your debt every January Why you should review your spending throughout the year How your savings goals play into your financial health Different savings vehicles you can utilize to grow your net worth A few things you should consider when talking about your retirement savings The role a change in income can play in figuring out if you’re financially better off this year How “lifestyle creep” could potentially hurt your financial health Here’s why employer benefits must be evaluated too each year Do you have the right insurance policies in place 6 questions you can ask yourself about your financial health LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Abacus Wealth Partners Mary Beth LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

This week I sat down fellow financial planner and Abacus financial advisor Emily Benedetto to talk about decisions millennials make around their money. Though she has always had a penchant for numbers, she took a bit of an interesting route to becoming a CFP but now loves every minute of it. If she had her druthers she'd be living on a farm and working as a farmer/financial planner. She’s married, has 5 siblings, love reading, horses, and helping folks systematize their money lives. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Emily got into financial planning and what convinced her to become a CFP® The inner discovery she made by deciding to work at Abacus Wealth Partners When your inner voice tells you “You can’t” how to get to “You can!” Why it’s important to face the things you are afraid of Emily’s timeline of getting to Abacus How money relationships can evolve overtime The importance of taking control of your finances Two different approaches to managing savings goals Which archetype category do you fall into? The impact that is made going from a saver to an investor Emily’s other passion besides financial planning Future savings bucket to consider as you grow in your career LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW TD Ameritrade com Financial archetype quiz (on Abacus website) Saving vs Investing WW blog post GET SOCIAL WITH EMILY AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Emily’s e-mail

This week I sat down Angela Greaser to talk what it’s like running a business with your significant other. Angela is a strategic operations consultant and co-founder of All The Ops. Led by Angela and her husband Dan, All The Ops helps business owners structure efficient teams and systems to skyrocket their profitability and claim their CEO seat. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Angela and her husband decided to go into business together Deciding what role each spouse plays in the business The benefits of understanding each spouse’s business strengths and weaknesses The two reasons why Angela and her husband chose to have a business together The goods and bads of having your significant other as your business partner How communication can make or break spouses in business together Why being flexible has to be a part of the framework How to align your life and business goals The importance of being intentional in your business The risks involved with going into business with your significant other Why you should have an exit strategy if the initial plan doesn’t work out Three questions Angela and her husband asked to see if their business together would be sustainable LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW OKR Planning Method GET SOCIAL WITH ANGELA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE All the Ops website Facebook Instagram Angela’s e-mail  

This week I sat down again with Ariel Ward, CFP® to talk about things to think about before buying a home. Ariel Ward, CFP® joined Workable Wealth in 2018 as a Financial Planner and in March of this year, made the move to Abacus Wealth Partners with me as a Financial Planner. She and I work closely together on our clients. She has 11 years of experience in the field of personal financial services and in helping clients develop financial clarity. She is passionate about helping professionals understand their financial lives and make better decisions with their money. Ariel is married to a pilot and spends as much time as possible exploring the US with her husband and 2 children. She enjoys working with clients in the aviation industry to make the most of their employee benefits and map out a plan for personal financial strength. She is a member of NAPFA, the XY Planning Network and the Financial Planners Association. Ariel works virtually out of Charlotte, NC. She enjoys North Carolina’s mountains, beaches and everything in between. In her free time you can catch her walking to one of Charlotte’s excellent breweries, playing Scrabble or building Lego houses with her kids. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Why people have hesitation around investing Some fears people relate investing to Why you shouldn’t use the news as a guide for to invest Translating the market changes to your investments How risk tolerance and asset allocation play into your investment portfolio Questions to ask yourself when considering different investment vehicles The trend of the market over a long period of time Investment vehicles for different levels of risk and what that means for your money The good and bad of taking on more risk in your investments Why you should understand the emotional aspect of investing How a financial planner can help you navigate your capacity for risk Should you invest when the markets are high? How to utilize dollar cost averaging to support your emotional side of investing What is meant when talking about “investing” LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Dow Jones Industrial Average S&P 500 MSCI Russell 2000 GET SOCIAL WITH ARIEL AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Workable Wealth Website Ariel’s e-mail Instagram  

This week I sat down business coach, writer, designer and pocaster Ilana Burk to talk about tiny living and how this style of living could affect your finances. Illana helps people find and create thriving livelihoods centered around their life's work. She's host of the Good Business Podcast and owner of Your Life's Workshop. With an MBA in Sustainable Enterprise and nearly 20 years of experience working with small business owners, Illana takes a fiercely rebellious and wildly ethical approach to making money. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What is tiny living and what it entails The three sub communities of tiny living What it’s like going from 2200 square feet of living down to 160 square feet How to do tiny living with a toddler One of the biggest reasons behind doing tiny living How long Ilana and her family expect to continue doing family living A few of the pros and cons of tiny living Unexpected challenges that come up that you might not think about One of Ilana’s least favorite things about tiny living How a focus on sustainability came into play The importance of knowing your enough, in business, in finances and in life The increased and decreased costs in tiny living The effects tiny living has on your savings goals How rent will still be a cost you need to consider How a mailing address plays into tiny living and how that could affect your taxes Why you must get into the details if you want to have success in tiny living A few key pieces of advice if you are considering tiny living LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Good Business Podcast Your Life’s Workshop Discovering Your “Enough” with Paul Jarvis Work Your Wealth Podcast Episode Seth Godin’s Mastermind GET SOCIAL WITH ILANA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Your Life's Workshop The Good Business Ilana’s e-mail Instagram  

This week I sat down financial planner Scott Frank to go over the benefits of life planning and using your money as a tool to achieve the life you want. Scott is the founder of Stone Steps Financial, a firm created to help professionals and families understand their financial lives and position themselves to reach their fullest potential. He does this job because he loves it. He truly enjoys taking complex issues and helping clients understand them. Scott lives in a little beach town, Cardiff by the Sea, just north of San Diego with his wife, Amanda, their sons, Lucas and Daxton, and their dog Sophia. When he’s not geeking out on financial news or white papers you’ll find him surfing with friends (Stone Steps is named for a surf break just a few minutes north of his house), running along the Pacific Coast Highway, or spending time with his family. He strongly believes in giving back and currently serves on the Leadership Development Committee for NAPFA. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Using life planning to better strategize your money goals How to EVOKE the life you want to live Four things you can always invest in and how to optimize that investment The impact felt by those who have gone through life planning The three questions to ask yourself to help you live a more intentional life The importance of writing goals down and discussing them with an accountability partner The best process to discover what really matters most to you What can get overlooked when you are just focused on the money How to identify what is getting in your way of the life you want to live A few common changes people would like to change in their lives Why you must figure out what matters most before executing a solid financial plan How a sounding board can keep you on track with your life goals The most important tool to reach the life goals you have for yourself LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW George Kinder George Kinder’s 3 Questions Carl Richards The EVOKE Process Tim McGraw’s Live Like You Were Dying GET SOCIAL WITH SCOTT AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Stone Steps Financial Scott's Blog Scott’s e-mail Twitter  

This week I sat down with fellow Financial Planner and Abacus partner Neela Hummel to discuss what we see in breadwinning women. Neela is passionate about women taking their finances to the next level. Women are increasingly out-earning and in control of more money than their male counterparts, yet many company policies and financial services are leaving women out. Her goal is to step outside the “paint it pink” model and tailor financial planning to the unique needs of different types of women. As any woman knows, different women have different needs, and She specializes in working with breadwinners, decision-makers, and young inheritors. Neela is a partner with Abacus Wealth Partners. Since 2009, Neela has helped grow a firm that values and supports women through flexible policies, career advancement, and equal pay for equal work. As a consequence, 50% of Abacus’ advisors are women, in an industry were 20% is the norm. Neela was named as Investment News’ “40 Under 40” for financial advisors in 2016 and is a graduate of UC Berkeley. Neela lives in Los Angeles with her wonderful husband, two adorable children, and two rescue dogs. She is an avid traveler and foodie, taking any opportunity to visit a new country, try a new restaurant, or hone her language skills (she peaks both Spanish and Italian). HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Neela’s background and her path to Abacus Wealth Partners The biggest challenge breadwinning women tend to face The financial opportunities that benefit breadwinning women over men Other factors to consider besides the dollars and cents when looking at your finances Why outsourcing can be a crucial tool for breadwinning women What it looks like for Neela being the breadwinner in her family Why you should use a financial planner when talking finances with your significant other Why you must separate out money for your financial goals Why so many women are asking what is their enough The benefits of being a breadwinning woman (or having one in your life) The impact breadwinning women will have on future generations What a family needs to be financially successful, regardless of who is the breadwinner GET SOCIAL WITH NEELA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Neela’s e-mail Instagram Twitter

This week I sat down with Sarah Peck to discuss the work life balance, especially as a female in the entrepreneur world. Sarah is a writer, startup advisor, and yoga teacher based in New York City. She’s the founder and executive director of Startup Pregnant, a media company documenting the stories of women’s leadership across work and family. She hosts the weekly Startup Pregnant podcast, and she and her partner in life and work are the instigators behind More Women’s Voices, a website that promotes women speakers and entrepreneurs. Previously, she worked at Y Combinator backed One Month, Inc, a company that teaches people to code in 30 days, and prior, as a writing and communications consultant. She’s a 20-time All-American swimmer who successfully swam the Escape from Alcatraz nine separate times, once wearing only a swim cap and goggles to raise $33k for charity: water. To date, she’s written for more than 75 different web publications and and has delivered speeches and workshops at Penn, UVA, Berkeley, Harvard, Year of the X, Craft & Commerce, WDS, and more. One recent viral essay, The Art of Asking, has been used across tech companies and product teams to train teams in clear communications. She’s currently writing a memoir of her experience working in the tech startup world while she was pregnant with her first kid. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Sarah got into the startup world and what drives her A big issue women run into when getting ahead in their careers The common thread Sarah sees throughout her audience If it's possible to balance all that life throws at you The connection between being a mess and a masterpiece The naked truth about how Sarah raised $30K for charity Going from scraping by to feeling financially secure The real questions to ask yourself when evaluating the type of work you are doing Where the idea for Startup Pregnant came from The financial agreement Sarah and her partner made while navigating startups How to enjoy parental leave for beyond the infant stage The importance of being intentional when crafting and building a business A big research mistake people make when starting a business How growing slow can be a really good thing for your business LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Y Combinator Cheryl Strayed Educated An American Marriage Laura Roeder GET SOCIAL WITH SARAH AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Startup Pregnant Sarah’s Website Sarah’s e-mail Instagram Twitter

This week I sat down again with Ariel Ward, CFP® to talk about things to think about before buying a home. Ariel Ward, CFP® joined Workable Wealth in 2018 as a Financial Planner and in March of this year, made the move to Abacus Wealth Partners with me as a Financial Planner. She and I work closely together on our clients. She has 11 years of experience in the field of personal financial services and in helping clients develop financial clarity. She is passionate about helping professionals understand their financial lives and make better decisions with their money. Ariel is married to a pilot and spends as much time as possible exploring the US with her husband and 2 children. She enjoys working with clients in the aviation industry to make the most of their employee benefits and map out a plan for personal financial strength. She is a member of NAPFA, the XY Planning Network and the Financial Planners Association. Ariel works virtually out of Charlotte, NC. She enjoys North Carolina’s mountains, beaches and everything in between. In her free time you can catch her walking to one of Charlotte’s excellent breweries, playing Scrabble or building Lego houses with her kids. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: A big decisions we’ve been helping multiple clients with this year Financial considerations to make before buying a home The reason people many feel the need to purchase a home Homeownership costs that might not always increase the value of the home Where the commission fees play into your financial well being for short term homeownership How long to plan on staying in a home before selling it The dangers of buying a home for the maximum amount a lender approved you for Why you should consider future life milestones when deciding on how much house to buy Where retirement savings plays into plans for buying house Some realities of homeownership that aren’t always talked about Tips for saving for a home down payment The types of accounts to stash money away into for your initial down payment A good way to prepare financially if you are considering upsizing your home The down payment percentage you should be striving for The way Private Mortgage Insurance can affect your cash flow How to prioritize big savings goals alongside buying a home Rule of thumb for establishing an emergency fund LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: How to Plan (and Save) for a Home Down Payment blog Is Home Buying Still a Good Idea? blog Should My Partner and I Buy a Home Before we Marry? blog How Much Home Can Your Lifestyle Afford? blog Planning to Buy? blog 8 Hidden Costs When You Buy a Home blog GET SOCIAL WITH ARIEL AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Workable Wealth Website Ariel’s e-mail  

This week I had sat down with Jessica Rhodes to discuss how she launched and scaled her business in the very new industry of podcasting. Jessica is the founder and equal co-owner of Interview Connections, the first and leading podcast booking agency. She has scaled the business quickly to high multiple six figures, with nearly no direct marketing or ads, and will break through the 7-figure mark in 2019. The Interview Connections team of Booking Agents are the podcast powerhouses behind many of the record breaking book launches you’ve seen today, with clients such as Ali Brown, JJ Virgin, Perry Marshall, other authors you may know, and numerous PR agencies who hire them for their podcasting savvy and booking skills. Jessica started podcasting in 2014 with the launch of Rock The Podcast and also has co-hosted several other shows including The Podcast Producers and Womensplaining. She is the acclaimed author of Interview Connections: How to #RockThePodcast From Both Sides of the Mic and has been a featured speaker at Podcast Movement, Podfest Multimedia Expo, and Dream Business Academy. She is married and is the mom of two kids, Nathan and Lucy. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The “blue ocean” Jessica discovered with podcast booking The business transformation from when she first started to now How to set pricing for your business Knowing when it’s okay to continue to increase pricing for your services Why Jessica shifted her business model from contractors to employees How employees worked better for her business model The biggest struggle she faced when getting her business started The financial approach she took when launching her business Balancing business goals and personal goals The background of bringing on Margy Feldhuhn as co-owner Building a business without ads and marketing Using your referral network to grow your business How proactively asking for referrals can positively impact your business Other avenues to market a business through your network How to keep an eye on your business numbers when there is more than one owner LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Interview Connections GET SOCIAL WITH JESSICA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Interview Connections Jessica's e-mail Instagram Twitter  

This week I sat down with Katie Krimitsos to discuss traits she sees in successful business owners. Katie Krimitsos is a mom, wife, adventurer, podcaster, business coach, seeker and change maker. She's committed to brightening the light of women around the world through her Biz Women Rock community, which supports Women Entrepreneurs, and through the Women’s Meditation Network, parent of the Meditation for Women Podcast, which provides guided meditations specifically created with the special journey of women in mind. She’s passionate about giving women the tools, strategies and inspiration to live lives the truly love. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Katie got into business coaching A common trait among Katie’s interviewees that seems to drive them forward in their respective businesses How Katie helps business owners strategize to get where they want to be Steps in managing your inner critic when it comes to your business The relationship between success and happiness and where your goals play a part Why you need to understand what YOUR success looks like and how to get there The impact of being willing to make mistakes Action items people commonly complete to meet their goals The meaning of building a successful business from the inside out Why you shouldn’t compare your script with someone else’s script The role financial awareness plays in the success of your business LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Cathy Heller’s BizWomenRock podcast episode GET SOCIAL WITH KATIE AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Biz Women Rock Women’s Meditation Network Katie's e-mail Facebook

This week I had changed things up a bit and became the interviewee! I invited my husband Brian on to chat about how we decided to sell my business. Selling my business was no easy decision. There were months of discussions, months of debate and a lot figuring out what we wanted in life. On today’s episode Brian and I chat about what led to selling my business, why we felt it was the right decision for us and some of the many things I am excited about coming up for Abacus Wealth Partners. We also chat about what you the listeners, clients, subscribers, etc. can expect going forward for the Workable Wealth and Work Your Wealth brands. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How a big decision for your business impacts your family life The importance of discussing big business decisions with your significant other The opportunities that were available to Workable Wealth Factors that went into merging into a larger firm How Mary Beth learned and was exposed to Abacus Wealth Partners The push Mary Beth received through the mentorship program Why she explored the idea of a merger How the Chief Marketing Officer role played into the merger Mary Beth’s discovery of “secret” Abacus The unique way Abacus onboards new employees How Abacus is walking their talk when it comes to diversity How the culture of Abacus impacted the merger decision Opportunities seen within Abacus for Workable Wealth and their clients What it came down to for Mary Beth to say “Yes” to Abacus The responses clients have given regarding the merger What readers, listeners, clients, etc. expect going forward Be on the look out for the “Money Circles” launch What the future holds for Workable Wealth LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Abacus Wealth Partners Mary Beth Exciting News to Share Blog Post Become an Abacus Client LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

This week I sat down with author and fellow Certified Financial Planner, Laura Mattia to talk about the importance of financial literacy for women. Laura, Ph.D., MBA, CFP, CDFA, is the author of Gender On Wall Street: Uncovering Opportunities for Women in Financial Services. With over 30 years of financial leadership experience, Laura has hired, mentored and trained hundreds of female financial professionals. Currently she is developing the new Personal Financial Planning degree at University of South Florida with a focus on gender and diversity. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The driving force behind a woman’s financial literacy Why both people in a relationship need to have an understanding of the finances Who’s ultimate responsibility it is to manage finances How having common financials goals can impact your marriage What the fifth wave of women’s movement looks like Where women need to get involved when it comes to money Why financial empowerment is so impactful Steps to take to let go of the “Bag Lady Syndrome” Laura’s path into the financial planning arena and resources that helped her Organizations you may find helpful as a financial planner The stark differences between men and women’s financial education LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: NAPFA Laura’s TedX Talk Women’s Money Empowerment Network Gender On Wall Street: Uncovering Opportunities for Women in Financial Services GET SOCIAL WITH LAURA AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Laura’s Website Laura’s e-mail

This week I sat down with Olympian and financial planner Lauryn Williams to discuss how to master money topics, specifically as it relates to athletes. Lauryn, CFP® is a 4-time Olympian, 3-time Olympic medalist and the first American woman to earn a medal in both the Summer and Winter Olympics Games. While pursuing professional sports Lauryn interacted with not one, but two financial advisors that didn’t provide the services she needed. She asked friends what they were doing about their finances and the answers were vague and unsettling. Constantly looking for ways to make a difference in the lives of others, she decided to put her finance degree and MBA to use to fill the gap for young professional. Eager to learn everything she then pursued the Certified Financial Planning certification. Her company, Worth Winning, offers virtual services to help young professional get the answers to the financial questions that matter most to them. Whether that is creating a budget, figuring out a plan for paying off student loans, setting goals for savings or understanding your 401(k), Worth Winning is ready to help with all things personal finance. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Lauryn’s Olympic Journey and the worst place to end up in at the Olympics Different financial income streams athletes tend to have The financial effects of getting fourth place in the Olympics Lauryn’s moment when she knew she needed to take charge of her money The different types of financial advisors and the ones to be cautious of What led Lauryn to the Certified Financial Planner coursework The story behind Lauryn’s podcast Worth Listening Why everyone needs a financial planner, regardless of your industry Lauryn’s transition from an Olympic athlete to a financial advisor How to look at transitions What planning ahead can do for you in all aspects of life How to determine if you could you pivot if you needed to Advice Lauryn has if you have two platforms you are entertaining Why Lauryn wrote her book The Oval Office The importance of being authentically you LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Worth Listening podcast The Oval Office by Lauryn Williams GET SOCIAL WITH LAURYN AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Lauryn's Website Lauryn's e-mail Instagram Twitter

This week I sat down with fellow financial planner and CPA Anjali Jariwala to discuss how to figure out how to find the right financial advisor for you. Anjali Jariwala CPA, CFP® founded FIT Advisors to save her clients time and help guide them to better financial decisions. As a mom, business owner and wife of a physician, she understands the opportunities as well as challenges that young professionals face. Whether you’re running a medical practice, looking at your first job or navigating money conversations in a new marriage - she knows your home life and financial future is not the average juggling act. Anjali believes in a more hands-on advising approach - we pull all the pieces together to provide you with peace of mind. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Questions that come up around hiring a financial planner Barriers people put up for not hiring a financial planner How to address the emotional side of money How a financial planner can provide a safe space to talk about your money Important items to look for when searching for a financial planner Fiduciary explained and why your financial advisor should be in this category Fee-only versus fee-based financial planners A few things to consider when finding the right fit for your financial planner How comfort and the ability to relate can be crucial for picking your financial planner Why your financial planner shouldn’t be afraid to have the tough conversations with you Why you may not get the sample plan you ask for when interviewing a financial planner The questions you SHOULD be asking instead The peace of mind a financial planner can bring to your life The fees discussed and the value that you get Why fees will be different when comparing financial planners Different options to pay your financial planner to make it work best for you The challenges and pitfalls you might run into down the “do it yourself” route GET SOCIAL WITH ANJALI AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Anjali's Website Anjali's e-mail Instagram Twitter Facebook Money Checkup podcast

This week I sat down with Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Brainspotting Consultant Beth Medina to discuss why people run into business blocks with their business goals. Beth is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Brainspotting Consultant- turned business coach who helps professional service entrepreneurs break through the mental blocks that keep them stuck, exhausted, and broke. She has adapted the therapeutic healing approach of Brainspotting for use in the business coaching setting. With Brainspotting, she helps entrepreneurs uncover and dissolve what’s stopping them from taking necessary, decisive action in their businesses. Beth is passionate about helping entrepreneurs eliminate any blocks they have around money so they can work profitably, serve conscientiously, and live generously. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What brainspotting is and how it can help you in your business How to access your “yuck” to understand your anxious feelings A reason you might shy away from a business or financial goal you’re trying to reach Where to start when you know you’re not meeting your business goals How to use uncertainty to get to you to start moving forward What a journey looks like to get beyond money blocks How to look at money in a different way and develop a positive relationship with it How to recognize you have a block that’s getting in the way of success Questions to ask yourself when you aren’t on track with your goals Directions to go when you’ve identified what’s causing you to be stuck Something everyone goes through with any kind of change Why it’s so difficult to let go of the old way of doing things The importance of having very specific goals LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Beth Medina GET SOCIAL WITH BETH AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Beth’s Website Beth's Email Facebook

What money moves have we made so far this year? One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to discuss some of the money moves we’ve made in our household knowing clients and readers are going through similar things. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address how we approached the different money situations and the results of our decisions. Today I'm talking about the 5 money moves we’ve made so far in 2019. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Some money moves we are facing in our family that are common among clients too Figuring out what to do once you’ve surpassed savings goals Stop the over planning and constantly playing the “what if” game The importance of setting dollar amounts for your goals A better way to approach your money goals A different way to approach your charitable giving Utilizing a donor advised fund for your charitable contributions The advantages of using a donor advised fund The tax benefits through the use of a donor advised fund Why we offloaded our tax projections to our CPA Why you should lean on financial professionals when changes arise How to avoid underfunding and overspending How to remove some of the guilt around spending money What aligning your money with your goals can do for your life The significance of writing out your ideal day, month and year Three questions to really evaluate what’s important to you What is getting in your way of living the life you want or love? The biggest thing I want for you around your finances LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Impact Assets Donor Advised Fund Fidelity Charitable Donor Advised Fund How to Manage Your Financial Anxiety Podcast Shonda Rhimes Year of Yes LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram Podcoin

This week I sat down with blogger and author Melanie Lockert to discuss the struggles people face when it comes to debt. Melanie is the founder of the blog and author of the book, Dear Debt. Through her blog, she chronicled her journey out of $81,000 in student loan debt. Her work has appeared on Business Insider, Time, Huffington Post and more. She is also the co-founder of the Lola Retreat, which helps bold women face their fears, own their dreams and figure out a plan to be in control of their finances. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Melanie’s background and how she began educating others about debt What inspired Melanie to create Dear Debt The safe space and community she has created How debt can affect a person’s mental health One of the top searches Melanie sees as it relates to debt The three taboo topics Melanie sheds light on The different types of letters to debt seen on her blog Why people write letters to thank the debt they’ve incurred Times debt can be a very good thing for people Melanie’s debt journey and how she paid off $81K How being in debt is similar to the 5 stages of grief When Melanie hit the lowest of the low point The way she doubled her income in one year The ins and outs of Lola Retreat How the Lola Retreat came about and when the next event will be LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Dear Debt Blog Dear Debt Book GET SOCIAL WITH MELANIE AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Melanie’s Website Lola Retreat Melanie's Email Twitter Instagram

What’s on your reverse bucket list? Taking time to celebrate wins is an important step in growing personally and professionally. Creating a reverse bucket list can assist in celebrating those wins. In today’s episode I talk about the importance of pausing to reflect on what you’ve accomplished and how to create a bucket list to help you do just that. In a time when all we hear about is the "hustle" and working towards our next goal, it's also very impactful to pause and appreciate what we’ve already achieved. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What a reverse bucket list is and the idea behind creating one The impact grateful recounting can have in your life Why it can be so challenge to speak about or even create your list How applying a reverse bucket list in a group setting can be beneficial Questions to ask yourself to help create a list that feels reflective of your achievements How to stay grounded and present in our lives The why behind celebrating your wins with other people The importance of celebrating other people’s wins with them The power living in the present can have on your future goals How to know what should go on your list How often you should be celebrating your wins TAKE TIME TO CELEBRATE! LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Journal of Positive Psychology Work Your Wealth: 9 Steps to Making Smarter Choices With Your Money LET’S CONNECT! Facebook Twitter Instagram

This week I sat down with psychologist and behavioral finance expert, Dr. Daniel Crosby to discuss the behavioral side of investing. Educated at Brigham Young and Emory Universities, Dr. Crosby helps organizations understand the intersection of mind and markets. Dr. Crosby's first book, Personal Benchmark: Integrating Behavioral Finance and Investment Management, was a New York Times bestseller. His second book, The Laws of Wealth, was named the best investment book of 2017 by the Axiom Business Book Awards and has been translated into 5 languages. His latest work, The Behavioral Investor, is a comprehensive look at the neurology, physiology and psychology of sound financial decision-making. When he is not consulting around market psychology, Daniel enjoys exploring the American South, fanatically following St. Louis Cardinals baseball, and spending time with his wife and three children. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Why there’s such a resistance to the psychological side of money How our choices are affected by externalities How to identify and break the “herd mentality” in your investing What the best investment portfolio looks like for you Psychological tendencies that impact investment behavior The importance of diversifying out of what you are comfortable with Overcoming emotional connections to some of your investments The balance between educating and empathizing Questions to ask yourself about investments with emotional ties How to take a “pre-mortem” look at your portfolio The way your ego can derail your financial goals The view you should take with long-term investing How to prevent your emotional self from getting in the way of your investing self The psychological benefit of the “set it and forget it” mentality The lie many people tell themselves why they don’t need a financial planner LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: The Behavioral Investor by Dr. Daniel Crosby Yuval Harari The Laws of Wealth by Dr. Daniel Crosby Work Your Wealth Podcast Episode 13 with Daniel Crosby The Standard Deviations podcast GET SOCIAL WITH DANIEL AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Daniel's Website Twitter LinkedIn Daniel's e-mail

This week I sat down with author and Chief Mammal, John Lanza to discuss how to teach your kids about money. John is the Chief Mammal of The Money Mammals and author of the new book for parents, The Art of Allowance: A Short, Practical Guide to Raising Money-Smart, Money-Empowered Kids. A pioneer in youth money-smarts, John created the original Money Mammals DVD and has written three children’s picture books to help kids learn to “Share & Save & Spend Smart.” He is recognized nationally as a youth financial literacy expert and the Money Mammals have been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The LA Times. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How John became an expert in youth financial literacy Some of the building blocks to teaching kids about money The three core money smart skills for kids to learn The importance of establishing a financial literacy foundation Teaching your children the Three Jar method The real purpose behind an allowance Why chores and allowance shouldn’t always be linked A recommended amount to give for allowance The best age to start with an allowance for your child How to approach the share jar with your child and at what age Some common mistakes parents make when teaching kids about money When to let your kids “borrow” money from you The right circumstances to give your kids a loan How to talk to your kids about investments (even if you’re not an investment guru) LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: The Art of Allowance Kimberly Palmer’s Podcast Episode Bill Dwight’s Fam Zoo GET SOCIAL WITH JOHN AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE John's Website John's e-mail

This week I sat down with entrepreneur and author Paul Jarvis to discuss why you don’t need to grow your business. Paul is a designer who likes writing (or vice versa) and has worked for himself since the 90s. He wrote a book called Company of One (Jan 15, 2019), published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. His courses—Creative Class and Chimp Essentials—have been taken by more than 13,564 paying students. His writing has been talked about by everyone from Ashton Kutcher to Arianna Huffington. He’s worked with clients, such as Microsoft, Danielle LaPorte, Mercedes-Benz, Marie Forleo and Warner Music. His ideas and words have been featured in WIRED, Fast Company, Vice, USA Today and more. As a totally random aside, his photography has been seen on Greys Anatomy (the TV show). HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Why Paul decided to write his book Company of One The importance of a company of one Why growth is not the best decision for every company How a company of one is based on a mindset, not a number The core skillset you will need The significance of setting your upper bounds The danger of setting your business goals too high The number one thing to consider with goal-setting Why introspection (and time for it) is a must Factors to consider when setting your upper bounds Lifestyle creep and how it can impact your happiness The best way to juggle opportunities and obligations How to have a business that supports your life and not the other way around What “shoulding” all over yourself can do to your mindset and success The way Paul defines success in his business How systems can be more of a hindrance when starting a business The significance of connecting with the customer before scaling LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Company of One by Paul Jarvis I Don’t Care About Growth The Challenge of Sitting with Your Thoughts Study Danielle Laporte GET SOCIAL WITH PAUL AND LET HIM KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HIM HERE Paul's Website Paul's e-mail Twitter

This week I sat down with estate planning attorney, Nikki Semanchik to discuss what estate planning documents are a must and who should have them. Nikki is the Founding Attorney of Semanchik Law Group (SLG), a business, nonprofit and estate planning firm located in San Diego. Nikki started SLG because she wanted to create a modern law firm that felt accessible to clients. As an entrepreneur herself, Nikki has a real passion for helping other business owners realize their dreams. Nikki truly believes that a huge part of her job as a business attorney is teaching, motivating and inspiring her clients to dream big. Nikki is also passionate about helping families protect their assets and plan for their futures through estate planning. As a parent herself, Nikki understands how having a proper estate plan in place can give you peace of mind knowing that your children are taken care of it the unthinkable happens. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Why you should care about estate planning & the reasons people avoid it Why the amount money you have doesn't matter when it comes to this kind of planning What it means to have an estate plan in place and who it's actually for The items that should be included in your trust and why they should be in there The differenced between wills and trusts Mary Beth’s favorite aspect of having a trust The document you need to have if you can’t make your own medical decisions Understanding why your trustee might not be the best person to execute your health care directive Why everyone over 18 years old should have a HIPAA document The purpose of having a Pour-Over Will How to handle determining and designating guardians for your children The importance of informing those you designate in your estate planning documents When and why you would need a durable power of attorney When to work with an attorney vs. creating your documents online How frequently you should be reviewing and updating your documents LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz The Case for Millennials to Have a Plan My Estate is Not in Order

This week I sat down with lawyer and entrepreneur, Autumn Witt Boyd to discuss how to start and scale a business. Autumn is an experienced lawyer who helps ambitious and creative business owners reach their big goals. Together with her team at The AWB Firm, Autumn guides online and e-commerce businesses as they grow. She has special expertise in copyright and trademark issues, and her firm offers full-service legal support to creative businesses. Autumn also hosts the Legal Road Map® podcast, which teaches business owners how to protect their rights and stay out of legal hot water. She lives in Chattanooga, TN with her husband Dave, twin boys Sam and Tyson, and daughter Vivian. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The importance of understanding your purpose when building a business The reality of the first few years of entrepreneurship Ways to still have an income when launching your business How your network can be your best tool when starting a business Different ways to market your business before you launch How to leverage an assistant in your business When is a good time to bring on an assistant Determining when to have part time vs. full time staff Dealing with the pressures of having a full time employee What to do to remove some of the financial pressure when bringing on a new employee Bringing on an assistant or employee needs to have a WHY behind it Knowing when it’s time to get office space (or upgrade your office space) Other options to look into if you can’t find affordable office space for your business Dealing with increased overhead through the use of office space How to keep the vision of your business moving forward The best reason to evaluate where YOU are lacking when hiring an employee When you’re business takes off, how to control the growth LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Kendrick Shope Sale School Being Boss Tara Gentile (Tara McMullin) Heather Hubbard Coaching The Legal Roadmap Podcast GET SOCIAL WITH AUTUMN AND LET HER KNOW YOU HEARD ABOUT HER HERE Autumn's Website Autumn’s e-mail Facebook  

What Can I Do to Reduce My Financial Anxiety and Concerns About Money? One of the fun parts of being a financial planner is getting to field and answer questions from clients and readers all around the country. In these Work Your Wealth episodes I'll be taking time to address and answer questions I've come across from readers and clients throughout my career. Today I'm answering the above question.  HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How to manage your financial anxiety Signs and symptoms of financial anxiety Digging too far into the details isn’t always a good thing Why playing the “What if” game needs to be limited How you might be subconsciously trying to beat the market Why ignoring your finances can be just as bad as being too detailed Tools to counteract any financial anxiety you might have The importance of knowing where things stand How a net worth statement can help reduce financial anxiety Knowing your numbers is good for your health How your goals can help reduce your financial anxiety The significance of a financial plan for your peace of mind How a financial plan can address many of the common fears around money Focusing on worst case scenario is sometimes unrealistic The worst-case scenario you’re telling yourself is not actually the worst case How working with a financial planner can reduce some of your financial anxiety The tools to have a less stressful 2019 LINKS WE MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: How to Get Your Finances Organized Blog Post Getting Organized for Tax Time Blog Post Are You Better or Worse Financially This Year Blog Post Work Your Wealth Book Garrett Planning Network XY Planning Network NAPFA

This week is the second of The Best of 2018 podcasts where I sat down with Deacon Hayes about how to retire early. Deacon was able to provide such great tips and tools for all those looking to work towards that financial freedom that I felt it had to be aired again as we approach the end of 2018. I’ve highlighted below just a few of the great takeaways from the episode but I also recommend heading back over to episode 56 where you will find more details on what Deacon and I discuss. I hope you are able to take some of these tips and roll them into your planning as you look forward to 2019! Enjoy!  HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: It only took Deacon 18 months to get rid of $52,000 in debt; he used that mindset to focus on retiring early Finances and communication go hand-in-hand when you’re in a relationship Don’t jus focus on getting to financial independence; have a plan once you get there Deacon discusses three different ways to work towards early retirement There’s more than one perspective when it comes to financial independence “Lifestyle creep” can wreck havoc on your goals if you’re not careful How to figure out your financial independence number Early retirement has its traps too. Don’t fall victim to these common mistakes  

This week is the first of two of The Best of 2018 podcasts and in this one I talk about how to make progress with your money. There’s a reason this episode was listened by so many people: making progress with money is important. Whether you’re working towards a long-term goal like retirement, or saving up for that new item you’ve been wanting, you need to understand how to make your money work for you. This episode goes over just that so I felt that it had to be aired again as we approach the start of a new year. I’ve highlighted a few of the key takeaways below but if you I recommend heading back over to episode 48 where you can find even more takeaways from this great episode. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: Start with Step 1 before setting any financial goals FOMO can knock you off track of your financial goals; know what it is so you don’t get sucked in by it Do you know what your WHY is, because that’s important Don’t fall trap to the “bag lady syndrome” When you’re in control of your money, it will look like this Happiness is what you make it; are you making the right money choices to get there When you’re figuring out your “why” start with these questions How to set SMART goals