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Financial confidence doesn't come from knowing everything. It comes from knowing what questions to ask.In this episode, Melissa Joy, CFP®, is joined by Tony Steuer, a longtime personal finance educator, insurance analyst, and host of the Get Ready Before Life Happens podcast.Tony shares how his early career as an insurance agent led him to a deeper mission: helping people understand why smart, capable individuals often end up with financial products that don't truly serve them. Over decades of consulting with financial planners, attorneys, and trust officers, Tony saw firsthand how complexity, commissions, and behavioral blind spots can quietly derail good financial decisions.Together, Melissa and Tony unpack how behavioral finance shows up in real life, especially around insurance and risk management. They discuss why permanent insurance products are often misunderstood, how surrender charges and commissions impact long-term outcomes, and why many people feel emotionally stuck in policies that no longer fit their lives.The episode wraps with an important discussion on financial scams and red flags, including pressure tactics, secrecy, and “too good to be true” promises, and why these warning signs matter not just for ourselves, but for aging parents and the next generation.Key TakeawaysWhy financial fluency starts with asking better questions, not memorizing answersHow behavioral finance influences insurance and investment decisionsWhen permanent life insurance can make sense and when it usually doesn'tWhat surrender charges really mean and why they matterCommon red flags of financial scams and bad actorsHow values, communication, and education shape long-term financial confidenceTo learn more about Tony's work, tools, and resources, visit tonysteuer.com and listen to Get Ready Before Life Happens wherever you get your podcasts.The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only. No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING's investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https:...
Send a textMajor life changes can shake your financial confidence. In this episode, Tony sits down with Chris Olofson, Founder of DIVEE Financial, to discuss how to take control of your money during transitions like divorce, retirement, or other major shifts.Key Takeaways:
Send a textOn this episode of the Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Carol Chiang, aging-in-place expert and author of Age in Place or Find a New Space, about how to take control of your aging journey with an aging plan.
Send a textOn this episode of the Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Brandon Lovingier, Founder of Military Money, about the tactics financial predators use and how military members (and all of us) can stay one step ahead.Key Takeaways:
Send a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Melana Carbary, Private Wealth Manager at Burning River Advisory Group and founder of enlightenHer to talk about how confidence, authenticity, and action can change the way women engage with money.Key Takeaways:
Send a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Justyn Makarewycz, about how financial fluency fuels better career choices—and a more intentional life.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Annalee Kruger, President of Care Right Inc. and author of The Invisible Patient about how creating an aging plan can save time, money, and stress.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Shannon Ryan, Financial Literacy Advocate and author of Your Money Has Feelings about how to bridge mindset and money and aligning your money with your values.
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Send us a textOn this episode of Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Dr. Alison Schmidt, founder and CEO of Unconvention and host of the (un)conversations® podcast, about how being your own advocate can reshape not only your finances, but also your life and values.
Send us a textOn this episode of Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Michelle Petrowski, CFP®, CDFA®, founder of Being in Abundance, about one powerful question: What if it is possible?We explored how shifting from a Do-Have-Be mindset to Be-Do-Have changes everything by starting with how do you want to be, then asking how do you want to do it and then asking what could I have?
Send us a textOn this episode of Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Jose Mayora, author of Wall Street's Blind Spot, about the principles of value investing and understanding risk.
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Send us a textOn this episode of the Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Joseph Pach—author of Building The Investors Edge and Chief Investment Officer of Corcovado Investment Advisors—about building stronger financial decision-making frameworks by understanding risk, opportunity cost, and human behavior.
Send us a textOn this episode of the Get Ready Before Life Happens Podcast, I spoke with Cameron Huddleston, Cathy Sikorski and Neil Granger about The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Scammers.⚠️ The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Scammers1️⃣ They Trigger Emotion, Not Logic Scammers know panic overrides reason. They create fear, urgency, or even excitement so you react before you think.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Harlan Landes, founder of The Plutus Foundation and The Plutus Awards, about building community and the world of financial content creation.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Merridith Gonzalez, the Midlife Concierge, about how we can all reimagine midlife with honesty, curiosity, and connection—while preparing for the caregiving and financial realities that come with it.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with BatSheva Goldstein, creator of the Financial Date Discussion Cards, about why money conversations are really about trust—not just dollars.
Send us a textChanging the way we think (and talk) about money—by connecting parenting, patience, and lifelong learning.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Miguel Ferreira, creator of the Finance For All program, about why financial literacy is the foundation for making confident, informed decisions—and how it helps reduce stress, increase awareness, and improve long-term outcomes.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Linda Ta Yonemoto, financial literacy advocate and educator, about helping first-generation women build wealth, gain confidence, and create financial legacies.
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Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Sandy Yong, award-winning author of The Money Master, about empowering women through financial fluency.
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Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Tim “Jai” Baker, founder of Luminous Wealth and author of The Awakened Investor, about how self-awareness and personal agency can reshape our relationship with money.Key Takeaways:
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Katherine Pomerantz, Rhianna Basore, and Joe Saul-Sehy about how the principles of improv can help us become better listeners, more engaged communicators, and more confident decision-makers—especially in uncertain or emotionally charged financial situations.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Lily Vittayarukskul, co-founder of Waterlily, and Sumedha Rai, AI strategist, about how AI is reshaping financial planning—from enhancing advisor-client relationships to helping protect consumers from financial scams.We explored how advisors can integrate AI thoughtfully, while keeping empathy and human connection at the center of every conversation.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with John Kailunas—author, podcast host, and CEO of Regal Holdings of America—about how creating a retirement mission statement helps you define your purpose after work.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Derek Hagen, author and Director of Education and Communication at Money Quotient, about the connection between life, psychology, and financial planning. Derek breaks down why money alone doesn't create fulfillment—and how aligning your financial strategy with purpose, values, and clear goals creates real impact.Key Takeaways:
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Prudence Zhu, author of A Couple's Guide to Money: Grow Closer, Dream Bigger, Thrive Together and founder of Enso Financial, about how couples can transform money from a source of conflict into a pathway for connection, trust, and shared dreams.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Marla Sofer, Founder & CEO of Knomee and host of the Knowing Me, Knowing You podcast, about how self-awareness transforms our relationship with money—and how financial professionals can better serve their clients by understanding what really drives their decisions.Key Takeaways:
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Cameo Roberson and Kari Ellis, co-authors of Beyond the Broker, about how women can find success in financial services by embracing independence, leaning into their purpose, and harnessing the power of their networks.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Ashlyn Brooks—financial content writer about how understanding your financial starting point is essential to building a more secure future. We explored the realities behind affordability, the shifting nature of the American Dream, and why personalized financial literacy is more important than ever.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Shannon Lee Simmons—author, financial planner, and founder of The New School of Finance—about how we can bring more compassion, flexibility, and real-life perspective into the way we talk about and manage money.Shannon shares practical insights on shifting our mindset, having healthier money conversations, and creating financial plans that reflect the way life actually unfolds—not how we think it should.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Michael Banner, host of the 62WhoKnew Podcast, about the double-edged sword of longer lifespans—and what it means for how we plan, spend, and protect our financial futures.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Mohsen Siddiqui, co-founder of GenMo, about how we can better equip the next generation with the tools, mindset, and confidence to navigate their financial future.We explored the power of early money conversations, the role of families and institutions, and why financial literacy must be inclusive and culturally responsive—especially in communities where access is limited.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Natasha Bonsu, financial wellbeing advocate, about how lived experience and open conversations can reshape how we approach money—for ourselves and the next generation.Natasha shares insights on the importance of financial wellbeing, especially in protecting vulnerable and at-risk individuals, and why we must normalize making mistakes as part of the learning process. Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, this episode is a powerful reminder that real money conversations start with empathy and authenticity.Key Takeaways:Lived experience is the best experience. Help kids think critically about money. Financial wellbeing protects those most at risk—from fraud, debt, and poor decisions. Parents and educators must lead the way—start conversations early and often. Find financial voices and resources that resonate with you. Give yourself grace—mistakes are part of growth. Plan for the unexpected.Connect with Natasha Bonsu:Website (here)LinkedIn (here)Instagram (here)Bio: Natasha Bonsu is a highly experienced Financial Wellbeing Consultant and who is passionate about helping people thrive financially with practical steps and tailored guidance. Her career started in Asset Management for a few global financial service companies. She became a single parent with a mountain of debt, Natasha faced her own financial misfortune, which motivated her to learn about personal finance and find solutions to overcome hardships. She believes in sharing her experiences and expertise to guide others on their financial journeys with confidence and success. Natasha has a unique perspective and empathises with the struggles people face when making financial decisions. Natasha's approach is rooted in the belief that financial knowledge is not just about money, but also about overall life satisfaction and well-being. With a proven track record of transforming lives of over 5000 people and over 250 workshops. Natasha is committed toempower individuals to make informed decisions, build resilience, and achieve financial independence. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, writing her first book, and dancing until her feet are sore!Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Paul Deloughery—author, estate planning and probate litigation attorney—about why effective estate planning is about more than just the documents.We explore how family dynamics, communication, and values play a critical role in whether a plan succeeds—or fails. Paul offers a fresh perspective for advisors, advocates, and families: estate planning isn't just a legal process—it's a human one.Key Insights:Estate planning is a process, not a product—documents alone aren't enoughFamily communication matters—healthy dialogue is essential to long-term successA strong estate plan must align legal documents with real-life detailsUnderstand how wills and beneficiary designations function and what takes precedence.Asset structure must match the plan—otherwise the plan fails.Nothing good comes from a child who's focused on what they'll inherit.Connect with Paul Deloughery:LinkedIn (here)Connect with Sudden Wealth Protection: Website (here)Instagram (here)YouTube (here)Books:Lasting Wealth: A Revolutionary Method for Family Wealth Transfer (Amazon)Probate Made Simple: How to Save Time, Ensure Family Harmony, and Reduce Stress (Amazon)Bio: Paul Deloughery is an estate planning and probate litigation attorney with over 25 years of experience helping families protect their wealth, maintain harmony, and create lasting legacies. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, he takes a proactive approach to estate planning, emphasizing family governance, autonomy safeguards, and multigenerational wealth protection.A Certified Family Wealth Advisor, Paul is the author of Lasting Wealth – A Revolutionary Method of Family Wealth Transfer and Probate Made Simple. He earned his law degree from the Iowa College of Law and holds Bachelor of Arts and Science degrees from Indiana University-Bloomington. He is licensed to practice in Arizona and is a member of the State Bar of Arizona and WealthCounsel. Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Meghna Gangwani, HR Head at Plootus, about the intersection of financial empowerment, equity, and technology. We explored how digital tools like the Plootus platform are helping bridge financial literacy gaps—especially for women, minorities, and underserved communities, and how personalized, unbiased advice can reshape the future of financial planning.Key Insights: Women and minorities often face greater economic challenges. Financial knowledge is a form of empowerment. Technology can enhance financial planning through personalized guidance. Unbiased financial advice helps everyone find success. Plootus is helping democratize financial planning by making smart tools accessible to everyone. The Plootus 401(k) calculator personalizes investment recommendations—and can be integrated by advisors. Connect with Meghna Gangwani:LinkedIn (here)Learn more about Plootus:Website (here) https://www.plootus.com/App on the Apple App Store (here) YouTube Channel (here) Plootus on LinkedIn (here) Plootus Weekly Newsletter (here) Instagram (here) Bio: Meghna Bahl is a founding member of Plootus, a platform dedicated to simplifying retirement planning and promoting financial wellness. With extensive experience in business development, product development, and HR, Meghna has played a key role in shaping Plootus' mission to make retirement planning accessible and understandable for all. Her contributions range from driving product-market fit to representing the company at significant events like SHRM, and leading initiatives aimed at improving financial literacy. Meghna is deeply committed to helping underserved communities, particularly women and minorities, take control of their financial futures.In addition to her work at Plootus, Meghna is a seasoned HR leader with deep expertise in business partnering, total rewards, organizational development, and employee experience. She has previously served as the AVP of Human Resources at Global Atlantic Financial Company, where she oversaw global HR programs to ensure a consistent, high-quality employee experience across multiple locations. Her career also includes HR roles at innovative organizations like Stash, a fintech startup, and building HR functions from the ground up for a tech company in Hartford.Meghna holds a Master's in Human Resource Management from Cornell University's ILR School and a Master's in Social Work from the Delhi School of Social Work, India. She is passionate about staying at the forefront of HR trends and remains dedicated to driving positive change and fostering cultures of inclusion and growth.Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Hillary Gale, finance marketing strategist and host of The Finance Marketing Podcast, about how authenticity and storytelling build stronger relationships. This episode offers a fresh take on how showing up as yourself can be your greatest asset. Key Takeaways: What it really means to have a personal brand. Why authenticity resonates. How to lead with relationships, not just recommendations. Why clients value emotional honesty from their advisors. The power of giving ourselves permission—and grace. Why sharing your own money story (without shame) can open the door for better conversations.Connect with Hillary Gale:Website (here)LinkedIn (here)Free Guide (here) Podcast:The Finance Marketing Podcast (here)Resources mentioned:2025 Voice of the Client Study from Wealthtender (here)Larry Sprung - Mitlin Financial - LinkedInBio: Hillary Gale, founder and CEO of Moneta Copy, is a marketing strategist and copywriter for financial services professionals. She has been featured in MarketWatch, Wealthtender, and Clever Girl Finance, and is the host of The Finance Marketing Podcast, a show that spotlights in-depth conversations on marketing with financial professionals and finance marketing experts. You can catch her on LinkedIn most weekdays sharing marketing insights and ideas specifically for financial services pros.Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Want to crush it as a life insurance agent? Tony Steuer worked in the life insurance field for 35 years before becoming an author on insurance and financial literacy. In this episode, Tony shares his tips for starting a successful career as a life insurance agent, including the daily habits of winners, how to find your niche, certifications, building your network, and more. Tony has graciously provided Achievable podcast listeners with a free copy of his e-book "The Questions and Answers on Life Insurance Workbook" at https://www.tonysteuer.com/pl/2148701471. Achievable has courses with industry-best pass rates for the FINRA SIE, Series 6, 7, 9, 63, 65, and 66, and the insurance life & health exam. Try our courses for free at https://achievable.me.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Drew Shockley, Co-Founder of Move Health, about how integrating health care planning into financial conversations can unlock new opportunities—including early retirement.
Send us a textOn the latest episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Dr. Joshua Wilson, coach and speaker about how advisors can integrate financial behavior into their client relationships.Key takeaways:Relationships matter.People connect with personal journeys.Increase your productivity by removing distracting decisions. You can talk about yourself without bragging about yourself. People don't make decisions purely on fact.Be boring with your investing and bold with your earning potential. Connect with Dr. Joshua Wilson: NeuBeFi Website (here)LinkedIn (here)Instagram (here)Facebook (here) X (here)YouTube (here)Podcast:Untamed Ethos Podcast (Apple Podcasts)Book:Atomic Habits by James Clear (Bookshop)Bio: Dr. Joshua Wilson started his career the way most advisors do—trying to compete on credentials, logic, and hustle. With no salary, no leads, and a rented room to keep expenses low, he built his book of business from zero. Later, he stepped in as CEO of a struggling RIA and led it through a turnaround and successful sale. Along the way, he realized the turning point in his success wasn't more designations or better charts—it was the moments when clients felt he was the right fit before they even spoke to him. That insight led him to pursue a PhD in Behavioral Finance, where he studied how people make financial decisions—through trust, emotion, and subconscious cues.Today, he leads NeuBeFi, a strategy firm that helps advisors and financial brands build stronger positioning by aligning their message with how the brain makes decisions. His work sits at the intersection of behavioral science, communication strategy, and real-world leadership.Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Considering a career as a life insurance agent or getting started at a new role? Tony Steuer worked in the life insurance field for 35 years before becoming an author on insurance and financial literacy. In this episode, Tony covers all the basics of a life insurance agent career, including products, concepts, ethics, and insurable interest. Tony has graciously provided Achievable podcast listeners with a free copy of his e-book "The Questions and Answers on Life Insurance Workbook" at https://www.tonysteuer.com/pl/2148701471. Achievable has courses with industry-best pass rates for the FINRA SIE, Series 6, 7, 9, 63, 65, and 66, and the insurance life & health exam. Try our courses for free at https://achievable.me.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Paul Ryan, founder of Credit Score Experts and author of Repair or Raise & Retain a Great Credit Score. We explored how to take control of your credit profile—and why it matters.Key Takeaways:Consider a credit freeze to protect yourself from identity theft and unauthorized access.Stay proactive—review and update your credit report regularly to keep your score accurate.Your credit score impacts more than loans—it can affect everything from insurance rates to employment opportunities.Each credit bureau calculates your score differently, so it's essential to monitor all three.Check for errors—they're more common than you think and can cost you in the long run.Whether you're educating others or refining your own credit strategy, this episode offers actionable insights for building a stronger financial foundation.Connect with Paul Ryan:Website (here)LinkedIn (here)Book:Repair or Raise & Retain A Great Credit Score and achieve your financial goals (free pdf here) (Amazon Kindle)Bio: Paul Ryan has an extensive background in mentoring, education, community service, and consulting. Because of his professional experience in finance, and his personal experience being a victim of identity theft, Paul was compelled to write a book about credit, to both share his own story and to educate others to achieve or maintain a healthy credit profile.Paul holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management, 2 certifications in the methodology of process improvement, and a certification in project management. He is a consultant, corporate trainer, and two-time author. His volunteer background includes leading fundraising for an affiliate of an internationally known non-profit, and is currently on the board of directors and the finance committee of an education and advocacy group supporting a Florida-based wildlife refuge. Besides being a volunteer, Paul is a proud dad, car enthusiast, athlete, foodie, DIYer, and originally from the Washington, D.C., area, residing in south Florida.Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Send us a textOn this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Dave Won, money mindset sales coach and founder of the Step Zero Workshop, about how our mindset drives the way we talk—and think—about money.We explored how money mindset isn't just about beliefs, but the deep emotions and experiences tied to our financial lives. Whether you're a financial advisor or someone looking to improve your money conversations, this episode will give you tools to lead with purpose, not pressure.Key Takeaways:Money mindset is rooted in our feelings and emotional experiences around money. An advisor's mindset impacts client relationships. Advisors should focus 100% on their clients. Buyers make decisions emotionally, then justify them logically. Live your life with contentment, purpose and intentionality. Chase after impact rather than chasing after money. Connect with Dave Won: LinkedIn (here)Website (here)Bio: Dave Won is a TEDx Speaker, Certified Money Coach (CMC)®, and the Founder & CEO of Dave Won & Co. Dave has been recognized as a global Top 30 subject matter expert by The Outlier Project. From conferences and summits to the corporate workplace, Dave has been empowering sales teams to transform their money mindset and turn their money blocks into confident, value driven conversations that unlock higher value deals and deeper client relationships. He is a former Air Force Captain with a decorated military career and has been featured by TEDx, ABC, EBN, SWAY Live, Military Media and the Air Force.Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Send us a textIn this episode, I'm joined by Nick Batchelder, author of Crush Your 20's, to talk about empowering students and young adults to take control of their financial future. Conversation Highlights:The biggest financial challenges facing studentsStudents should be aware of the credit card trapBuild the habit of saving money consistently Things get easier the more you do themTake your time - it's a long time journeyYou don't have to be perfect—just start and stay curiousConnect with Nick Batchelder:YouTube (here) Instagram (here) TikTok (here)LinkedIn (here) Books:Crush Your 20s: Transform Your Life Socially, Professionally & Mentally(Bookshop) Podcast:Podcast: Building The Blueprint (here) Bio: Nick Batchelder is a 21-year-old on a mission to create a world where personal growth is more relatable. Nick blends his youthful perspective and his industry insights to create a refreshing perspective on financial literacy, personal growth, professional development, and social confidence. If your looking for a new perspective on "self-help", Nick is the resource for you. Nick is the author of Crush Your 20s and host of the Building The Blueprint Podcast. Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Send us a textIn this episode, I spoke with Bernadette Joy, author, podcast and financial fluency advocate about why financial fluency—not just literacy—is the next evolution in how we talk about money. Bernadette shares how fluency empowers individuals to take control of their financial lives, ask better questions, and challenge outdated systems.Key Takeaways:Financial education should be shame-free and accessibleFinancial fluency is like learning a new languageFluency is about context, communication, and intentional skill useJust-in-time learning is more effective than just-in-case theoryFluency can close the gender and racial wealth gapFluency empowers people to question the systemConnect with Bernadette Joy: Website (here)LinkedIn (here)Instagram (here)YouTube (here) Books: CRUSH Your Money Goals: 25 Smart Money Habits to Save, Invest, and Fast-Track Your Financial Freedom (Amazon) (Bookshop)Podcast:Crush Your Money Goals (YouTube) Freebies:FREE GUIDE: 10 Money Tools You NeedResources mentioned:Invest for Better: Check out my conversation with Janine Firpo, the co-founder of Invest for Better (here)Romy Pickron: Check out my conversation with Romy Pickron, the co-founder of Reducify (here)Bio: Bernadette Joy is an author, podcaster and CEO of Crush Your Money Goals®, a personal finance training company serving up education with a side of pizzazz. She's featured monthly in Forbes, CNBC, and CNET and appeared on more than 30 podcasts, radio and television shows. As the eighth child in her father's brood of nine and a first-gen Filipina-American, Bernadette understands those who feel like they missed the money memo. Sure, she boasts two bachelors and a master's, and a decade of Fortune 100 and startup experience. But her real street cred? Paying off a jaw-dropping $300,000 of debt in three years and investing her first $1 million in her 30s! Now she works 20 hours a week to focus her financial freedom on joy: K-Pop, yoga, karaoke and spoiling her nieces and nephews as their traveling rich auntie. Today she shares strategies so simple, your pet goldfish could understand. She's coached thousands nationwide, sharing her 5-step secret recipe for ditching debt, mastering savings and investing for financial peace. Support the showThe Get Ready Money Podcast and its guests do not provide investment advice. All content is for educational purposes. Guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Get Ready Money Podcast and Tony Steuer.
Labor Day might be about rest, but in the basement, we're getting to work on busting some of the most persistent myths in personal finance. Joe Saul-Sehy and OG welcome insurance pro Tony Steuer to unpack the shiny marketing around infinite banking and velocity banking. Spoiler: sometimes “be your own bank” really means “make your insurer rich.” From permanent life insurance pitfalls to the real math behind these strategies, Tony helps separate clever sales pitches from solid financial planning. Then we shift gears to a conversation every parent, grandparent, and future gift-giver will love. Renowned financial journalist Chuck Jaffe joins the crew, fresh from becoming a grandfather, to share how he's setting his new grandchild up for a strong financial future. Think stock portfolios for toddlers, early Roth IRA strategies, and simple systems that keep family generosity from getting lost in the shuffle. His practical, battle-tested tips will have you thinking differently about the best ways to give kids a head start. Whether you're looking to avoid costly detours or create generational wealth, this episode is equal parts cautionary tale and inspiration. You'll walk away ready to dodge financial traps, build smarter for the next generation, and maybe even rethink your own long-term giving plans. Why infinite and velocity banking aren't the slam-dunk solutions they're often sold as How to spot the red flags in permanent life insurance pitches Smart, tax-efficient ways to save for children and grandchildren Creative strategies for gifting assets that grow with the child The importance of balancing generosity with your own long-term goals Ideas to Ponder During Today's Episode Have you ever been pitched an “innovative” financial strategy that didn't feel quite right? What tipped you off? What's the most meaningful financial gift you've ever given—or received—as a child? If you could give one piece of financial wisdom to the next generation, what would it be? FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/permament-life-insurance-and-growing-your-money-1729 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices