Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast rich & REGULAR with Kiersten and Julien Saunders

Is your "purpose" making you anxious? Do you feel like everyone online is "living their best life" except for you? Then you've come to the right place. 

It's January and you're probably knee-deep in resolutions that may or may not last past the first week. But forget the trendy diets and the overly ambitious gym routines. This year, we're going deeper and talking about a purpose reboot - not the "new you" version fueled by fleeting motivation, but the kind built on self-awareness, intentional choices, and a healthy dose of skepticism about the pressures to optimize our lives. 

This week, we sit down with the brilliant Dr. Jordan Grumet (aka Doc G) to talk about his latest book "The Purpose Code." Jordan, a former hospice doctor and a 90s hip-hop head, is not here for the fluffy, Instagrammable version of purpose. He’s no stranger to the intersection of hard choices and meaning and he’s here to break down what actually makes life feel meaningful.

We dive into:

• The “Big P” purpose trap (think: social media, fame, riches, etc.) and why it might be sabotaging your happiness.
• The secret sauce of "Little P" purpose (think: the things that actually make you feel alive)
• How religion and social media can be both a blessing and a curse in the purpose department
• Why you need to be the hero in your story, not the victim of your past
• How to use your money as a tool for fulfillment, not a checklist of achievements
• The parental purpose myth (this one is controversial, y'all)
• What real legacy looks like…is our legacy up to us to decide? Or is it a story that will be told by the generations that follow?

Links: 

• Buy Jordan’s latest book The Purpose Code 
• Listen to The Earn & Invest podcast or join the Facebook group

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we’re diving headfirst into the one word that can save your budget and your sanity: No

Julien kicks things off with some personal stories about recent awkward moments when "friends" ask for money, which sets the stage for a much-needed conversation.

For some of us, saying "no" can feel just plain wrong, especially during the season of giving. This isn't your typical "budget better" advice, we're going deep into why saying "no" is so dang hard.

But we don’t stop there. We also discuss: 

• Holiday pressure and how the “season of giving” turns our good hearts into overdrawn bank accounts
• Survivor's guilt and our responsibility to lift as we climb 
• How a lifetime of people-pleasing can leave you feeling resentful
• How to say no to: acquaintances who suddenly need "just a little help", family and friends, and people you've helped before
• Actual useful tactics that work in real life, from setting dedicated budgets to learning the art of the "alternative offer," and how to say no without feeling like a total jerk
• Why "they'll figure it out" is so powerful and how letting people solve their own problems might be the best help you can give

This is a vulnerable episode for anyone who finds themselves saying "yes" just to avoid being rude, or because they think being generous is the only way to be a good person. We've been there, and hopefully, you find this helpful.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

The latest inflation report shows that grocery prices are back up, making something as basic as eating feel like a financial tightrope walk. So this week, we're rethinking how we define "good" food and making a case that the best meals can be both cheap and delicious by sharing 3 of our favorite cheap meals. 

Hopefully you walk away from this episode feeling slightly less guilty about that impulse takeout order (as long as you learn from it), inspired to rethink what's possible with your budget and your kitchen, and empowered to create satisfying meals that don’t break the bank.

We discuss:

• The joy (and necessity) of finding delicious, affordable food that doesn't taste like you’re pinching pennies (or just eating sadness)
• Practical tips for making flavorful, budget-friendly meals that are both nourishing and satisfying
• A closer look into our favorite meals, complete with pricing breakdowns and the secret ingredients to take them from "meh" to "magnificent"
• The importance of cross-utilization and how it can help you maximize your grocery budget.

Links:

- Food prices rose 28% in 5 years 
- Money on the Table S3:E3 “How much is enough?” feat. crispy skin salmon
- How to save money by trimming a beef tenderloin

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

We’re still revisiting fundamentals and this week we’re asking: Is your emergency fund actually an emergency fund, or just a well-intentioned savings account collecting dust (and maybe a tiny bit of interest)? 

In this episode, we unpack the truth about financial emergencies and reveal the flawed logic behind the old ‘3-months of expenses’ rule. Let’s be honest, climate change, unexpected job losses, and ridiculously high repair costs have made the classic “cash only” emergency fund advice obsolete. We talk about building a real safety net, one that's flexible, accessible, and addresses everything from the cost of repairs to those unexpected crises that inevitably spring up in life

Building an emergency fund isn’t about striving for perfection; it’s about protecting what matters most. We’ll provide practical tips, address common anxieties, and leave you with a renewed sense of preparedness – all without losing your mind (or your savings).

We discuss:

• The Illusion of the "Checked Box": Why the standard 3-6 month emergency fund is inadequate for the unpredictable realities of 21st-century life 
• The importance of liquidity and accessibility: It's not enough to have the money, you need to be able to access it quickly and easily. We'll dissect the hidden fees and frustrating bureaucratic hurdles that can turn your carefully-saved emergency fund into a useless paperweight
• More than just cash: We discuss the overlooked role of insurance, lines of credit, and community resources in weathering life’s storms. This isn't just about finances; it's about creating a comprehensive plan that addresses all dimensions of an emergency
• The Multi-Layered Approach: Why cash is still surprisingly relevant, even in a cashless society.Real-life examples that illustrate why diversifying your financial institutions is no longer a "luxury" but a necessity
• The Rebuilding Phase: A practical plan for rebuilding your emergency fund in the wake of a crisis. Because let’s face it, emergency situations aren't one-and-done

Links:

• Episode 156: Survive & Advance | The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience with Lynnette Khalfani Cox (YouTube Link) 
• Episode 184: How to Automate your savings (and finally get ahead) (YouTube Link) 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

We took a mini-break (and you KNOW we needed it) but we're back, and today we're tackling the sacred cow of financial planning: BUY AND HOLD. 

Let's face it, investing isn't a spectator sport and the pandemic proved that even the most "set-it-and-forget-it" advice can get messy. Plus research shows investors are holding stocks for less time than ever before. So this week, we’re asking if the classic "buy and hold" strategy is still the cornerstone of financial wisdom, or has the rise of day trading, sports betting, and cryptocurrencies rendered it obsolete? 

Don't expect simple answers, because investor psychology isn’t that simple, but we promise some surprisingly insightful takeaways

We explore:

• Why “buy and hold” is the American way and what that means in the era of instant notifications and market fluctuations
• How the emotional and psychological realities of modern life challenge even the most well-laid financial plans
• The rise of “bro-conomy” investing, and why the appeal of day trading and sports betting is harder to resist
• How to use robo-advisors to tame your inner FOMO without losing your shirt (or your retirement funds)
• The importance of financial literacy and diversification, beyond the simplistic "buy and hold" mantra
• A peek behind the curtain into our own HSA investment strategy and a warning about the illusion of easy wins

Links:

• The Three Pillars of the Bro-Economy via The Atlantic 
• Episode 171: Why you need a brokerage account 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week, we’re unpacking the surprisingly trendy world of underconsumption. Is it a Gen Z TikTok trend? A millennial coping mechanism? A wise old soul's secret weapon? The answer is YES to all of the above.

In this episode, we cover:

How to avoid overspending this holiday season on food and gifts. We even share our hard-won lessons on dealing with impulsive buying, managing the expectations of our loved ones, and teaching our son to approach spending with intention (no, we didn't always get it right, but boy, have we learned!)

YOLO vs. YONO: Say goodbye to "You Only Live Once" and hello to "You Only Need One." We explore the global shift towards intentional purchasing, and how it's impacting everything from fashion to finances. (And yes, we do discuss the implications of the impending tariffs on that Zara haul you've been eyeing…)

The Price vs. The Cost: That cute little $25 item from TikTok Shop? It might cost you more in stress, maintenance, and anxiety than you think. We discuss the psychological (and very real!) costs of buying the "nice" stuff.

Hedonic Adaptation: The science of why buying more doesn't always lead to more happiness. We are not our things and learning this will actually save you money and the planet.

Key takeaways (because your time is valuable):

• Underconsumption is a lifestyle, not a trend
• Re-evaluate your values. Do the math
• Soup is not just for sick people (or soup kitchens)
• Embrace the power of the "thoughtful no"
• Quality over quantity (even with those darn shoes that don't last!)
• Pouches are the future. Get you a pouch.

Join us for a funny, insightful, and deeply satisfying conversation about changing your relationship with your stuff. It might just be the best self-care you do all year.

Links:
- The enshittification of everything 
- Self-gifting messaging is set to dominate Black Friday ads
- The kitchen tech we use to make cooking at home so much easier  

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week, we’re unpacking the raw emotions and anxieties that followed the recent election. We explore the stark reality of a country deeply divided, not just politically, but also in terms of our visions for the future. 

This election wasn't just about who won. It was about a country that, frankly, feels more like it's been severed in half than unified. 

It’s a deep, messy reality and we question the easy labels and simplistic narratives that often dominate the political conversation.We explore the real, human stories behind the red and the blue and ask some tough questions about how to move forward with a more nuanced understanding of our political landscape.

Lastly, we talk about the pressures of a society driven by consumption, and how it can create a disconnect between those who have “too much” and those who don’t, which leaves many feeling left behind, overwhelmed, and unheard. 

If you’re ready for a conversation that goes beyond the surface, tap in for an honest, critical look at the state of our nation and how we can find a way to make meaningful progress together. 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

It’s 2024, and inflation is the number one concern for voters. Today we’re unpacking both candidates' distinct approaches to addressing it. 

We discuss Kamala Harris's and Donald Trump's plans for tackling the rising cost of living, taking a closer look at their proposals and the underlying political and economic philosophies that drive them. Prepare yourself for an interesting and honestly, maybe slightly frustrating, discussion of how the election could impact your wallet and your future.

This isn't just a run-through of policy papers. We're talking about how these candidates are choosing to frame the fight against inflation, the cultural anxieties it reflects, and the real-world impact these choices will have on your everyday life.

This election feels a lot like dating. Both candidates have got their "selling points", but it's up to you to decide what you're actually looking for in a long-term relationship and what kind of future you want to build together. Looking beyond inflation, this is a defining and consequential election. Your vote matters. Stay informed, stay engaged, and make your voice heard.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this special solo episode, Julien and Dr. Preston Cherry discuss the intersection of financial planning and personal well-being. Dr. Cherry brings a unique perspective and combines the rigor of financial expertise with the nuanced understanding of a therapist. He's here to tackle those awkward conversations with your partner about finances, the "financial harmony" that's more than just a feel-good buzzword, and how to find true satisfaction in a world obsessed with wealth.

Dr. Cherry knows the struggle is real for the sandwich generation - those of us juggling the demands of raising kids while supporting aging parents. He offers some guidance for having complex financial conversations with grace and clarity, and strategies for finding balance and ensuring that your own financial needs are met alongside those of your family. 

This episode is also important for anyone preparing for parenthood - it's not just about diapers and baby formula. We're talking about investing in your future, valuing your own worth (beyond just your paycheck), and finding ways to make sure your children inherit more than just a pile of bills.

Helpful Links: 

• Diversity among financial planners improved in 2021 — but it still remains overwhelmingly white and male 
• Follow Dr. Preston Cherry on his website, Instagram, and YouTube
• Get his book: Wealth in the Key of Life

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week, we're returning to our "Quick Dip" format, where we explore three timely topics, giving you the need-to-know without the fluff.

First up, is cord-cutting still worth it? Julien shares his long history of cord-cutting, which began long before he met Kiersten, and she shares her own journey to embracing a cable-less lifestyle. We discuss the pros and cons of traditional cable versus streaming, and how the streaming wars have made cord-cutting more complex than ever. But, ultimately, we agree that cord cutting can still be a smart move, especially if you can resist the urge to buy into all the bells and whistles.

Next, we discuss the recent 2.5% Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and how it might not be enough for seniors to keep up with rising costs, especially in healthcare. It’s a reminder that Social Security is often overlooked as a critical part of personal finance and more of us should be having better conversations about money with loved ones who rely on it.

Finally, we check in on the stock market. We break down the current state of the market, talk about the importance of diversification, having an exit strategy, and getting caught up in the hype. 

This episode is packed with actionable tips and insights that can help you handle your next financial decisions with confidence. 

Links: 

• 2024 Medicare Quick Reference Guide (via Nuveen)
• Mark Cuban’s drug company: https://costplusdrugs.com/
• Episode 92: Medical Tourism
• Episode 105: Planning for your retirement 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This episode is for anyone who's ever said, "I wish I could just save more money" because we're spilling the tea on how it’s done (and more specifically, how to automate it)  

PAY YOURSELF FIRST. Yes, it sounds simple, but it's the kind of simple that's surprisingly difficult to pull off when you're battling bills, student loans, and a dozen ads featuring the latest shiny thing every time you look up. That's where automation comes in. We're talking about setting up systems that make saving money a habit, not a chore. 

We'll break down why "pay yourself first" isn’t just another cheesy motivational slogan, 4 different ways to automate your savings and investments, how you can use your raises and windfall money to your advantage, and a way to apply ‘pay yourself first’ to your everyday expenses that can actually lead to major savings.

Links: 

• Sign up for Acorns today
• Episode 154 - Why you need a plan for unexpected “windfall” money 
• Episode 97 - Modern Couponing 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week, we're unpacking the murky waters of pay cuts and those awkward conversations where your boss wants you to do the same work for less. It's an increasingly common brutal reality, but you don't have to just roll over and take it.

We explore the different types of pay cuts: those forced upon you (like when you're forced back into the office) and those you choose (like a lateral move for experience). We'll also get real about the sneaky ways pay cuts happen – from slow-burning merit-based cuts to outsourcing key departments and roles.

Tune in for advice on:

• The myth of the "Great Salary Reset": Why pay cuts are not a correction but a reflection of power dynamics
• What to start doing when your job wants less from you, and how to protect yourself from getting played
• The importance of building a backup plan for financial stability when pay cuts are the only option
• The new portfolio career: Learning how to pivot and reinvent yourself in this economy

Links: 

• Episode 150: Avoiding the Confidence Trap | How risk impacts your investments
• Episode 140: Pay Transparency | Does sharing your salary help you earn more? 
• Pay trends amid rising pay transparency
• US salaries are falling, employers say it’s a “resetting” (via BBC)

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we're diving into the world of NIL, or Name, Image, and Likeness, and how this new, HUGE opportunity will impact youth sports. 

Think you're not impacted by NIL? Think again! This episode is for athletes, parents, coaches, and anyone who wants to understand how NIL is changing the game. And if you've got a kid with any sort of athletic talent, this is definitely a conversation you need to be having. 

The point is - this ain't your mama's college experience. This is about financial freedom, brand building, and how college athletes are finally getting a piece of the pie they've been baking for years. 

It's time to forget those old-fashioned ideas about college athletes just being "students," because the NCAA's amateur "student-athlete" model is DONE. It's a whole new game and we're here to help you play it.

We're covering:

• NCAA got served: The landmark ruling that shook up college athletics and opened the door for athletes to cash in on their own name, image, and likeness.
• Why we're so intrigued by this: It all started with our son, and it's a real-life lesson in how to think differently about money, branding, and the future of sports.
• The BIG picture: This is about billion-dollar industries, the NCAA's outdated model, and evolving from a labor rights issue to a civil rights issue (spoiler alert: opinions don’t matter) 
• The power shift: It's not just about the big names anymore. We're showing how even "average" athletes can leverage NIL to create a side hustle, a side gig, or even a full-blown business.
• Real-world examples: we share a story about what happened when we posted sports content featuring our son and give you practical tips on how to negotiate your own deals.
• The future of sports: We're forecasting the coming age of athlete-owned brands, semi-pro leagues, and even NIL scholarships

Links: 

• The Money Game on Amazon Prime 
• Ep 174 Quick Dip - Why are Olympians so Broke?  

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

We’re all familiar with the pressure to make extra cash, but what if your side hustle wasn't just extra work, but an opportunity to tap into your existing skills? This week we’re discussing long-term side hustles with one of Kiersten’s best friends, Lauren. 

Lauren's side hustle (teaching fitness classes) evolved into a passion project that fuels her spirit and keeps her bank account healthy. In fact, after 12 years, it’s been the longest "job" she's ever had, and it's helped her weather some major life storms. From lay-offs to breakups, Lauren's side hustle has provided a solid safety net and a healthy nest egg, giving her the financial freedom to handle the ups and downs of her 9-to-5 career in marketing.

This episode is for anyone who's been hesitant to start a side hustle or feels like it's just another impossible thing on their long to-do list. Lauren’s story illustrates how earning income outside a traditional job with intention can change your life, one gig at a time. 

What you'll learn:

• The "Passion Project" as a Profitable Path: How Lauren’s side hustle wasn't just about the money, but about creating a space where she felt alive. This unlocked a sustainable way to make money while doing what she loved.
• Navigating the "Hustle": We talk about approaching side hustles in a way that doesn't burn you out and allows you to prioritize your mental well-being. Lauren offers some tips on setting boundaries and creating systems that work for you.
• The Shifting Landscape of Work: How the digital age is changing the way we think about work, and why a portfolio career might be the future.
• Monetizing Your Skills: Lauren’s story highlights the importance of understanding your strengths and identifying any skill gaps that need to be addressed. This self-awareness can help you narrow down the side hustle that's right for you and create a long-term, fulfilling path to success.

Links: 

• Follow Lauren on Instagram 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Do you ever wonder why you buy things you don't need? This episode explores the fascinating (and sometimes alarming) ways culture shapes our budgets. We’re talking to Dr. Marcus Collins, who is a scholar of the hidden messages of consumption, a marketing professor at University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, and the author of For The Culture. 

He takes us on a journey into the heart of consumerism, explaining how brands create religions, how the people we admire influence our spending, and how we can all become more conscious consumers. It's a hilarious, insightful, and maybe even a little uncomfortable look at the invisible cultural forces that are impacting our spending. 

Dr. Collins helps us understand:

• How the "consecration" of brands shapes our spending: We're not just buying products, we're investing in a sense of belonging, an identity, a belief system. Think of it as the "gospel of consumerism”
• The power of "our people": Dr. Collins breaks down the phenomenon of social proof and how the people we admire, the groups we identify with, and the trends we follow, all play a huge role in our spending.
• The illusion of financial freedom: Dr. Collins reveals how the "keeping up with the Joneses" mentality and our unconscious cultural programming can leave us feeling trapped, even when we have the right information.
• Navigating the cultural landscape: Dr. Collins offers tools and insights to help us become more conscious consumers, make more intentional spending decisions, and build a financial future that aligns with our own values.

You'll walk away from this episode with a deeper understanding of the unseen forces influencing your spending, equipped to see through the "noise" of cultural marketing and branding, and empowered to break free from the unconscious influence of cultural norms.

Links: 

• Get Dr. Marcus Collin’s book For the Culture 
• Visit his website and follow him on Instagram 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week, Jackie Cummings Koski, author of "F.I.R.E. For Dummies," sits down with us to share her personal experience and offer some wisdom for anyone, no matter how late they are in the game, to begin building their financial future. 

This episode isn't your typical FIRE fantasy. As a Black, divorced, single mom who retired with $1.3 million at age 49, Jackie's got the receipts and the real talk about what it looks like to navigate personal finances when your story is a little more complicated than the usual "quit your job, sail the world" narrative. 

Jackie’s story is one of resilience, of taking on the challenge of reaching back to help your family when you're the first one to make it, and even more importantly, it's a story of recognizing that you have time on your side, even when you are a late starter.

We discuss: 

• The Great Un-Representation: Why the financial world needs more diverse voices, and especially more Black women, in the conversation.
• From "F.I.R.E. For Dummies" to Family Dinners: How the psychological aspects of money shape our choices, and why helping those closest to you often means reaching back instead of up.
• The Truth About Social Security: Jackie breaks down the reality of Social Security for early retirees (spoiler alert: it's a powerful backup, but don't expect it to be a cash cow).
• Beyond the Numbers: Living a life of purpose and leaving a meaningful legacy can be more important than just the final dollar figure.
• Is the 4% Rule a Myth?: Jackie shares her experiences with the 4% rule and how it can be adapted to your own circumstances and goals.

Links:

• Get Jackie’s book F.I.R.E. For Dummies here
• Listen to Catching Up to FI podcast with Jackie and Bill Yount 
• Visit her website, Instagram, and LinkedIn 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Are you dreaming of owning your own business? Maybe you picture yourself running a bustling coffee shop or a sleek fitness studio in the perfect area of your town. Franchising often seems like the shortcut to that dream – a pre-packaged path to success, where the brand and the system are already in place. But, as with most things in life, the reality is a little less glamorous than the Instagram-filtered facade.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of franchising. From the initial allure of a "cheat code" to building wealth to the often-overlooked realities of bureaucracy, legal entanglements, and the never-ending dance of stakeholders, we lay bare the realities of franchise ownership.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering franchising. We’ll help you cut through the hype and make informed decisions about whether franchise ownership is the right fit for you.

Key Takeaways

• Beyond the “Cheat Code”: Franchising isn’t a magic bullet to wealth. It’s a business model with its own set of complexities and challenges.
• It’s Not Just a Sign-Up: Before jumping in, be prepared for a thorough application process, including fees and scrutiny of your financial standing.
• You’ll be juggling more than just your own employees. Franchise ownership means navigating a symphony of stakeholders, including sales teams, operations support, and vendors.
• Location, Location, Location: The hype often centers around “prime” locations, but the reality is most franchises operate in less-than-ideal spots. Demand generation is crucial, and you’ll need to build your own customer base.
• Beyond the Honeymoon Phase: The initial excitement of a franchise can fade quickly as you face the day-to-day realities of running a business within the constraints of a corporate model.
• Deep Pockets & Deep Relationships: You'll need financial stability to handle unexpected costs and a strong network to navigate challenges and find reliable help.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

You've heard of the Snowball and Avalanche methods, but which one is right for you? In this episode, we discuss the nuances of these popular debt payoff strategies, exploring the psychology behind each and how they might affect your financial journey.

We're not here to shame you about debt. Let’s be real, in this economy, it's practically a badge of honor to have survived the last few years without getting buried in debt. But, when you're ready to take charge, knowing the right approach can be the difference between a successful debt-free journey and a cycle of frustration.

We'll break down the pros and cons of each approach, sharing insights on how your mindset can play a crucial role in success. Because let's face it, sometimes even the best strategy falls short if you're not mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

Takeaways

• The snowball method involves paying off the smallest debt first, providing quick wins and motivation
• The avalanche method focuses on paying off the debt with the highest interest rate, resulting in less interest paid over time
• Your mindset is just as important as the math. Choosing a debt payoff strategy depends on personal preferences and financial goals
• Using windfall money and balance transfers can accelerate debt payoff
• Think of it like chicken soup. Do you want to pop open a can of Campbell's? It's quick, easy, and gets the job done, but lacks the depth and soul of homemade. Or, are you willing to invest a little more time and effort to craft a broth that will simmer in your heart (and stomach) for days?
• Focus on making progress over the next 90 days to reduce debt before the holiday season
• Reassess, adjust, and celebrate. Don't get stuck in a rut. If one method isn't working, switch it up. And remember to celebrate every milestone, even the small ones.

Links: 

• Episode 93 - credit card balance transfers
• Episode 142 - how we paid off $200,000 in debt 
• Episode 138 - Tips to avoid holiday overspending

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Is it better to focus on building wealth (net worth) or making sure you have enough money coming in to cover your bills (cash flow)?

This question represents a classic financial tug-of-war, and the answer, as you might have guessed, is both. 

So this week, we’re tackling both sides of the argument and reminding you why you don’t have to choose. Cash-producing assets like rental properties, dividend stocks, and business ownership allow you to generate cash in the short term while still building wealth in the long term. 

In this episode, we explore the tension between cash flow and net worth and highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each. We emphasize the value of cash-producing assets, such as rental properties, dividend stocks, bonds, royalties, and business ownership, in achieving both cash flow and long-term growth. We also review some potential pitfalls of buying or building these assets, including the need for upfront capital, tax considerations, legal protection, and the importance of adapting to changing environments.

Links: 

• Episode 107 Net Worth: How to manage and optimize your financial future 
• Episode 118 Dividend Investing 
• Episode 112 The role bonds play in a downturn 
• Episode 133 The Pros and Cons of Alternative Investments 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we’re talking about the stock market's latest tantrum and what it means for YOU. (Spoiler: maybe not as much as you think!) 🤫

In this episode we’re breaking down the psychology of fear and hype, and talking about how to avoid getting caught up in the noise while building a long-term strategy that makes you more confident and less stressed.

Takeaways:

• An overvalued stock is one where the price is higher than its actual worth based on its current performance and future expectations.
• Market volatility and fluctuations in stock prices are often driven by market sentiment and short-term traders.
• Forget the hype and focus on fundamentals - For long-term investors, it is important to focus on the core fundamentals of a company and not get caught up in short-term fluctuations.
• Valuation is an art and science - Evaluating stock valuations requires a mix of quantitative measures (e.g., price-to-earnings ratio, price-to-earnings growth ratio) and qualitative factors (e.g., CEO and executive movements, insider trading).
• Long-term investing is about more than money - It's about building confidence and a sense of control over your finances. Diversification, dollar-cost averaging, and focusing on what you can control are key strategies for navigating stock market fluctuations.
• You're in control of your destiny, not the market's - Developing a solid investing philosophy and understanding your risk tolerance is crucial for making informed investment decisions.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we're ditching the usual deep dives and trying a new format. The Quick Dip is where we embrace shallow takes, and in this episode we’re talking about everything from the Olympics and bankruptcy to the creepy world of personalized pricing. 

First we tackle the Olympic exploitation issue, questioning the disparity in pay and prize money for athletes across the globe. Then we discuss the rising bankruptcy trend, wondering if we're becoming numb to the stigma or if it’s truly just changing. And finally, we explore the spooky world of surveillance pricing, wondering if we've lost our privacy in the pursuit of convenience. Get ready to be surprised, provoked, and possibly slightly horrified 

Links: 

• Why are Olympians so Broke?
• Download our free Financial Technology Toolkit
• Bankruptcies up 16% YoY
• Impact to credit score and likelihood for bankruptcy in states with legalized betting
• FTC files special report regarding surveillance pricing

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we’re talking about the emotionally charged world of affordable housing, as we share the story of our journey to find suitable housing for Julien’s mother. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the complexities of aging parents and their life after retirement, financial instability, and the often-overlooked reality of the affordable housing system.

In telling our story, we explore:

• The emotional toll of the search: We highlight the emotional labor and stress of finding affordable housing for aging parents, particularly when the parent is used to owning their own home. We also talk about the difficult conversations around finances and independence, while dealing with the bureaucratic hurdles and emotional challenges that arise.
• The financial burden of housing: We shed light on the exorbitant costs of senior living and the lack of affordable housing options for those who need it most. Specifically, the challenges faced by those who rely on fixed incomes like social security, and the financial pressures that come with aging.
• The systemic barriers within the affordable housing system, like limited availability, long waitlists, and inflexible eligibility requirements. 
• The need for early preparation: We can’t stress the importance of early preparation for aging parents enough, including the need to create online access for financial transactions and to prepare for the emotional conversations around their future.
• The importance of community and support: Let this be your reminder that you are not alone in this challenging process and that leaning on community resources and support networks can be the difference maker.

Links: 

• AARP Future of Housing Report
• Download our free Financial Technology Toolkit
• GeorgiaHousingSearch.org - a directory of affordable housing options in Georgia
• Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience book by Lynnette Khalfani-Cox 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

"I was so sad that this might be the case, that I might have ADHD."

This week we're peeling back the layers of Kiersten’s late diagnosis of ADHD. This episode is unlike any other as we get personal about Kiersten's diagnosis, the societal pressures that shaped her understanding of it, and the impact it has on her relationship with Julien and with money.

Join us as we explore the complexities of ADHD and how it can manifest in a partner. You'll hear about the emotional roller coaster that followed and the surprising ways ADHD impacts daily life, especially when it comes to the intersection of money. We also dive into why women are so underdiagnosed and misunderstood, the impact of hormones, perimenopause, and menopause on symptoms, the power of vulnerability, and the role of a partner in supporting someone with ADHD. This episode is packed with insights, humor, and a healthy dose of honesty.

Key Takeaways: 

• ADHD is not just a lack of attention, but a difference in how the brain processes and learns. It can impact various aspects of life, including organization, memory, and motivation.
• The diagnosis can be an emotional process, with feelings of sadness, denial, and even shame. It can be challenging to reconcile past successes with a new understanding of one's brain.
• The "Mommy Factor" describes the influx of women who are diagnosed only after their child is
• It's important to challenge the negative language used to describe ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions. Instead of focusing on deficits, we should focus on understanding individual differences and celebrating unique strengths.
• Partners can play a huge role in supporting someone with ADHD. They can help with understanding the condition, navigating the emotional journey, and advocating for necessary resources.
• ADHD is not an excuse, but an explanation that can help us understand and overcome challenges.

Links: 

• For women with money issues, an ADHD diagnosis can be revelatory from Paulette Perhach via The NY Times
• ADHD impairment peaks in menopause 
• How the "ADHD tax" affects adult finances
• Interview with Rich Jones on how work affects our mental health via Cashing Out podcast 
• Keeping Finance Personal book by Ellyce Fulmore 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Many of us know we should be investing for our retirement through accounts like a 401K, but how many of us also have a brokerage account? 

Think of a brokerage account as a Swiss Army knife for your financial life. It can help you save for retirement, invest for the short-term, and even handle unexpected financial challenges. In this episode, we uncover the hidden potential of brokerage accounts, discussing their versatility, accessibility, and why they're the ultimate tool for taking control of your finances.

Key Takeaways:

• Brokerage accounts offer incredible flexibility: Unlike 401(k)s and IRAs, which are designed for long-term retirement savings, brokerage accounts allow you to invest for any reason, and at any time, with no restrictions.
• You have full control: You own and control your brokerage account. This gives you the power to choose your investments, manage your portfolio, and make your own decisions, without needing to rely on your employer or a financial advisor.
• It's easier than you think to get started: You don't need a lot of money or investment experience to open a brokerage account. Many platforms offer low minimums, sometimes even as little as $1, and provide resources for learning and building your knowledge.
• Don't overlook the short-term potential: Brokerage accounts are not just for retirement. You can use them to save for a down payment on a home, invest for a vacation, or even cover unexpected expenses.

Discussion Points:

• Why brokerage accounts are a powerful alternative to traditional retirement accounts.
• The benefits of having full control over your investments.
• Real-world examples of how people are using brokerage accounts.
• How to get started with a brokerage account, even if you're just starting out.
• The importance of being proactive and taking control of your financial future.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Money is a hot topic, and it's easy for disagreements to turn into full-blown fights. In this episode, we dive into the common reasons why we fight about money with our partners, family members, and even friends. We explore how our past experiences, cultural influences, and even the nature of our brains can lead to conflict and how to navigate these situations with grace and understanding.

Key Takeaways:

• We're not taught how to argue about money: Most of us don't have the skills to discuss financial matters without resorting to emotion or negativity.
• "On the same page" doesn't mean conflict-free: Healthy relationships include differences of opinion, even about money.
• We often hit below the belt: Media and cultural narratives can influence how we approach conflict, and sometimes we end up attacking our loved ones without realizing it.
• Ultimatums are a form of coercion: Instead of trying to control someone's actions with threats, learn to set clear boundaries and communicate your needs respectfully.
• The "money fight" is often about something deeper: Underlying insecurities about control, trust, and personal values can trigger intense conflict around money.
• Respecting each other's processes is key: Understand that everyone comes from a different place, has different experiences, and different beliefs.
• It's okay to not have all the answers: Embrace the process of communication, negotiation, and compromise.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

There's a lot of buzz around stock splits these days. Nvidia, Walmart, Chipotle - everyone's talking about it! But, as we explained on the podcast, this isn't the financial revolution you might think it is.

A stock split is a simple concept: it's like taking a whole pie and cutting it into more slices. You don't end up with more pie; you just have more pieces. The same is true with a stock split. You don't actually increase the value of your investment; you simply have more shares, each with a lower price.

So why do companies do this? Well, it's all about making their stock more accessible. When a company's stock price gets very high, it can be difficult for the average investor to buy in. A stock split makes those prices more palatable for folks with smaller portfolios. But let's be honest, it's also a bit of a marketing ploy. 

Tune into this week’s episode as we answer the question: what does it all mean for you? 

Key Takeaways: 

• A stock split is like cutting a pie into more slices; it doesn't change the size of the pie, just how it's divided.
• Stock splits don't increase the value of your investment.
• Companies do stock splits to make their stock more accessible and increase trading volume.
• Stock splits don't guarantee future success.
• Focus on the fundamentals of a company, not just the hype around a split.
• Stock splits can offer an opportunity to buy into a good company at a more affordable price, but they’re just a piece of the puzzle.
• Consider your investment goals and risk tolerance when evaluating a stock split.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

We're excited to be back with a new season of our award-winning original video series, Money on the Table. This episode dives into the origins and inspiration behind Season 3 and why we decided to return to our humble home kitchen for these conversations.

We’re unpacking why those authentic, no-holds-barred conversations about money are dang important, how food can be a powerful medium for breaking down walls to explore complex topics, and the trials and triumphs of DIY content creation. We’re giving you the inside scoop on what to expect in Season 3 of Money on the Table – and trust us, it's gonna be good!

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Anthony Bourdain's work inspired Money on the Table.
• How food and food television can create a unique space for conversation.
• The challenges and benefits of creating content independently.
• The importance of genuine conversations about money.
• Our goals for Money on the Table Season going forward 

Links: 

• Watch Episode 1 “A life with fewer regrets” 
• Watch Episode 2 “Luck is NOT a PLAN”

Subscribe to our YouTube channel to be notified when the rest of the episodes drop!

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads! In this special solo episode, Julien offers a heartfelt and inspiring look into the actual experience of fatherhood. He gives a refreshing perspective on fatherhood and opens up about his own journey, sharing a powerful message of presence, growth, and the role of a dad.

Julien takes us on a personal exploration, revealing he wasn't always the father he is today. He describes a past "oblivious" phase where fatherhood wasn't even on his radar, and gets real about the whole “I thought I could plan for this thing” (spoiler alert: you can’t)

Julien also explores moving beyond traditional notions of being just a provider, sharing how his journey into fatherhood has led him to confront his own limitations and learn the importance of embracing the present. He talks about how he actively strives to be a role model, coach, confidante, and even a punching bag for his son. He’s honest about the challenges, but there’s a real sense of joy and wonder in his voice when he talks about constantly evolving as a dad.

If you're a dad, or even thinking about becoming one, this is the episode for you. It's a reminder that being present, being there for your kid, even in the messy, crazy, exhausting moments is the real gift

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

It’s time for your 2024 midyear money check-in and in this episode, we discuss the importance of celebrating the overlooked smaller financial wins and milestones. We know the feeling – it's easy to get caught up in big goals, like buying a house or retiring early. But what about the smaller victories along the way?

Julien reflects on the feeling of hitting "zero-naire" status after paying off debts, and how his mindset has shifted from constantly chasing a bigger number to finding contentment in the present. Kiersten reveals how shifting her perspective on saving from a rigid "all or nothing" approach to a more fluid and sustainable strategy led to greater financial confidence and a more positive relationship with money.

We also discuss the power of "sweat equity" in both personal and financial growth, and explore how to apply this concept to everyday life.  Whether it's cooking at home instead of eating out, cleaning your patio yourself, or finding ways to increase your savings rate, every small win counts!

After this episode, you might be surprised at how much joy and progress you can achieve when you take the time to appreciate the little things. 

Links:

• Ep 71: Buying Used vs New 

We discuss:

• The power of mid-year check-ins and why they're critical for understanding your progress and re-evaluating your goals.
• The importance of celebrating small wins, even when they seem insignificant.
• The importance of sweat equity in our personal and financial lives, and how it can lead to a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
• The dangers of chasing hype and the importance of discerning between real financial wins and fleeting trends.
• The need to re-evaluate our approach to investing and learn about different strategies beyond traditional index funds.
• The importance of recognizing and appreciating the value of experiences, even if they come at a cost.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This episode is a special one, inspired by a listener suggestion based on a recent event Kiersten spoke at with Ally and UnitedMasters called SelectCon! We're diving into the concept of the "soft life" and how it relates to money, financial goals, and entrepreneurship.

Here's what we cover:

• SelectCon: We start by discussing our experience at SelectCon, a unique event hosted by UnitedMasters, an alternative to traditional record labels that empowers artists to retain ownership of their work. We talked about the financial literacy aspect of being an independent artist, which is where the "soft life" concept came into play.
• What is the "soft life"? We explore the meaning of the "soft life," how it's often portrayed online, and the differences in perception between men and women.
• The "soft life" for entrepreneurs: We discuss how to find a balance between hustling and creating a soft life as an entrepreneur, especially when it comes to financial decisions.
• Pay Yourself First: This episode features a deep dive into the concept of "paying yourself first," which is a key strategy for building a soft life, regardless of your career path.
• Value-based spending: We talk about how aligning your spending with your values can contribute to building a "soft life" that's sustainable and fulfilling.
• Brokerage accounts: We discuss the importance of brokerage accounts for entrepreneurs and those with inconsistent income, especially compared to traditional 401Ks.
• Inner work: We explore the psychological aspect of the "soft life" and the importance of inner work for achieving financial responsibility and a sense of ease.

If you're interested in learning more about how to achieve financial freedom and create a soft life that works for you, this episode is for you!

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

It's graduation season and the Class of 2024 faces a unique set of challenges: crushing student loan debt, a competitive job market, and the constant pressure to "hustle."  In this episode, we're cutting through the noise and giving real, actionable advice for the new world of work.

In this episode, we talk about:

• The truth about student loan debt: How it influences career choices and the need for financial security
• Side hustle as a strategic move: Why this generation is turning to side gigs and how to use them to your advantage
• Burnout and economic uncertainty: Developing a practical approach to mental health and career advancement
• The new rules of success: Forget "follow your passion," it's time to embrace a new philosophy: “get paid.”
• Playing the corporate game: How to play the game and protect your mental health 

This episode is for you if:

• You're graduating in 2024 and feeling overwhelmed by what's next
• You want to understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing the Class of 2024.
• You want to hear practical advice on how to make money and build a successful career.
• You're tired of the same old platitudes and want real talk on the realities of the modern workplace.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Is summer break a vacation, a project, or a chaotic mess? In this episode, we're diving into the reality of childcare during the summer months, exploring why even high-income families rely on relatives, and why traditional camps and daycare might not be the answer. Join us as we unpack the reality of summer childcare and discover creative solutions to make the break a time for growth, connection, and even some fun!

Links: 

• Most Parents Don't Have Any Formal Child Care Arrangements via US Census Bureau
• Full Time Job, Zero Formal Child Care via The Cut
• Starter list of free of cheap summer camps

In this episode:

• New Data Reveals the Truth: We discuss a surprising new U.S. Census study that shows most parents (61%) rely on non-formal childcare, with relatives topping the list.
• Beyond the Price Tag: Cost is a factor, but it's not the only thing driving summer childcare choices. Learn how lifestyle choices, family dynamics, and personal situations impact parents' decisions.
• Creative Solutions: Summer doesn't have to be a constant struggle. We share creative, fun, and often free ways to fill the summer with learning, play, and meaningful experiences for kids.
• The Power of Community: Discover how to tap into your community for support, from neighbors and friends to college students and teachers who might be seeking side gigs.
• PTA: Your Secret Weapon: We explore the often-overlooked resources and opportunities available through the PTA.
• Think Like a Teacher: Learn how to create a flexible summer schedule that's both engaging for your kids and relaxing for you.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

The job market is more competitive than ever. Even with the perfect resume and impressive credentials, landing your dream job (or even a decent one) feels impossible. What's the missing piece?

This episode dives into the unspoken truth: you need to learn how to sell yourself.

We're tackling the tough questions:

• Why is self-promotion so important in today's world? We explore how the digital age has changed the game, requiring you to be "twice as findable" as you are qualified.
• Isn't bragging "icky"? We debunk the stigma around self-promotion, revealing the difference between obnoxious boasting and authentically showcasing your value.
• I hate social media. Do I really need to be online? We discuss the importance of building a digital presence and offer strategies for making it work for YOU, even if you're not a social media guru.
• How do I stand out without losing myself? We offer practical tips and frameworks for developing a sustainable self-promotion strategy that aligns with your values and goals.
• What about the fear of rejection? We share personal experiences and provide encouragement for overcoming the mental hurdles that often hold people back.

This episode is for anyone who is struggling to land a job despite strong qualifications, wants to advance their career but feels stuck or is considering entrepreneurship but feels hesitant to put themselves out there.

We'll leave you feeling empowered to take control of your career narrative, equipped with a few practical strategies for building your personal brand and inspired to embrace self-promotion as a path to success.

Resources mentioned: 

• Brag Better by Meredith Fineman 
• Cinneah at Flynanced 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we're discussing the inspiring journey of Kim Lewis, CEO of CurlMix, as she shares her experiences and insights on building a successful business and challenging societal norms.  The conversation highlights the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, her experience with Shark Tank, fundraising insights and how her relationship with money has changed throughout her entrepreneurial journey. It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to challenge the status quo and build a life of purpose and impact.

We explore her early entrepreneurial aspirations, the dynamics of working with a partner, and the importance of open and honest communication. Kim opens up about her time in the traditional workforce and how those experiences ultimately led her to pursue entrepreneurship. She shares her experiences with $100k in credit card debt and the lessons she learned from it. The conversation also highlights the importance of financial literacy for entrepreneurs and explores alternative funding strategies, particularly Kim's successful utilization of crowdfunding to fuel CurlMix's expansion.

We challenge traditional notions of work-life balance and discuss the importance of prioritizing experiences that nourish the soul. Kim shares her evolving relationship with money and success, emphasizing the need to focus on purpose and impact rather than solely chasing numbers. This episode is packed with Kim's vibrant personality and wisdom, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and people seeking a more fulfilling life.

To learn more about Kim, visit her website, listen to her More Rounds podcast, or follow her on Instagram.

Visit the Curlmix website to learn more about their products and mission.  

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we’re chatting with Jannese Torres, the proud Latina behind the new book "Financially Lit!" and the Yo Quiero Dinero community. We talked about her incredible journey to financial independence, breaking free from traditional paths and the importance of redefining success and wealth. Jannese opened up about her experience being laid off from her corporate job and realizing she needed to be her own safety net. 
We discussed the importance of representation and seeing ourselves reflected in success stories, the influence of Bad Bunny and Puerto Rican culture, and the cultural baggage that comes with money. She also got real about the emotional side of building wealth, especially the guilt that can come with achieving success when your community is struggling, as well as the impact of toxic relationships and the importance of protecting your wealth using prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. 

Jannese's story is about so much more than just dollars and cents. It's about being true to yourself, breaking down barriers, and building a better future for yourself and your community. It's about owning your identity and using your voice to inspire others. 

Get Jannese’s book (out April 30th) - Financially Lit!: The Modern Latina’s Guide to Level Up Your Dinero & Become Financially Poderosa 

Keep up with Jannese on her website, Instagram, Twitter, and podcast

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this conversation, Yvette Sadler Butler, CEO and founder of Hive Wealth, discusses her journey in the financial services industry and how it influenced the creation of Hive Wealth. In it, she shares her vision of making finance more inclusive and accessible to everyone through financial planning powered by AI.

The conversation explores the rise of Black investors in the stock market, the importance of financial planning, the need for budgeting tools and how AI (artificial intelligence) is incorporated into the Hive Wealth experience.

It concludes with Yvette sharing some of the early reactions to the Hive Wealth experience,  how Hive Wealth improves financial decision-making, investment strategies, and  long-term planning. To learn more about Hive Wealth, visit https://www.hivewealth.com/.

To follow Hive Wealth on social media: click the links below:
Instagram: http://instagram.com/hivewealth
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hivewealth
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hivewealth

To learn more about the show, visit https://richandregular.com/listen/
 
About Yvette Butler:
After 30 years at the intersection of digital and wealth management, Yvette launched Impart Media to close the racial, gender and generational wealth gap. She believes that we should all have an equal opportunity to create an enduring legacy. Yvette is the former President of SVB Private, the modern private bank for innovators.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

If you want to know the secret to stress-free cooking at home this episode is for you! This week, we're exploring the world of kitchen technology that can help you save money, eat healthier, and make cooking at home easier and more enjoyable. We'll discuss our personal experiences with various gadgets, highlighting the benefits for both novice and experienced cooks. 

Key Takeaways:

• Cooking at home is a major opportunity for savings, but it's important to remove pain points and inefficiencies.
• Technology can bridge the gap between wanting to cook more and feeling overwhelmed by the process.
• There are options for everyone, whether you're a busy professional, a parent, or simply looking to expand your culinary skills.

Featured Kitchen Tech:

Anyday: This microwave cookware allows you to cook anything from scratch, using raw ingredients, directly in the microwave. It's perfect for busy individuals and families who want to eat healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Inkbird Wireless Thermometer: This thermometer measures both the internal temperature of your food and the ambient temperature of your oven or grill, taking the guesswork out of cooking and ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.

Sous Vide: This immersion circulator cooks food gently and evenly in a water bath, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful dishes. It's ideal for meal prepping, reheating leftovers, and experimenting with new cuts of meat.

Electric Lunchbox: This portable device allows you to enjoy a hot, home-cooked meal wherever you are. It's perfect for blue-collar workers, busy professionals, and anyone who spends extended periods of time away from home.

Air Fryer: This countertop appliance is essentially a mini convection oven, perfect for quickly cooking or reheating a variety of foods. It's a healthier alternative to deep frying and a great option for families with kids.

Additional Resources:

• Investing Masterclass: Making Money Grow: Use code APRIL25 for 25% off during Financial Literacy Month!
• rich & REGULAR Amazon Storefront: Find curated lists of our favorite kitchen gadgets and other recommended products.

Please remember to leave a 5-star rating and review to help others discover the show, and share this episode with anyone who wants to make cooking at home easier and more enjoyable.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Ken and Mary Okoroafor based out of the UK and founders of The HumblePenny.com discuss their life and new book Financial Joy. In this conversation, they share their journey of starting their blog and the importance of representation in the personal finance space. They discuss the advantages of raising their children to be investors and the importance of being aligned as a couple. They also emphasize the value of using everyday situations as teachable moments for their children.

Ken shares his personal experience of leaving his high-paying job as a CFO to become a content creator and the challenges and rewards that came with it. They also discuss the unique challenges faced by black people in the UK in terms of wealth gaps and systemic racism.  They highlight the lip service and broken promises of organizations that claim to support black communities as well as their POV on the similarities and differences for Black people in the UK vs. the United States.

Lastly, they share a few nuggets from their book: Financial Joy emphasizing the importance of faith as a currency in finances and the need for dreamers to have a clear purpose, objectives, strategy, and tactics [P.O.S.T] to achieve their goals.

Get Ken and Mary's book, Financial Joy: Banish Debt, Grow Your Money and Unlock Financial Freedom in 10 weeks
Follow Ken and Mary on YouTube, Instagram, or their website

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we’re joined by author and personal finance expert Lynnette Khalfani-Cox to discuss the importance of financial resilience and the strategies for bouncing back from setbacks. Lynnette dives into the core concepts from her book "Bounce Back: “The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience and explores the emotional side of financial challenges. In this refreshingly candid interview, Khalfani-Cox gets real about the psychological toll of money woes and those dreaded "Ds" that can decimate your finances: Debt, Downsizing, Divorce, etc. This isn't just about spreadsheets and hacks. It's a master class in self-compassion as a survival strategy.

Lynnette also provides insights into her writing process, dealing with pressure/deadlines, and setting realistic expectations when she working on the book and workbook. Whether you're struggling with debt, recovering from a job loss, or simply want to become more financially resilient, this episode is packed with wisdom and real-world advice for bouncing back stronger than before.

Get Lynnette’s new book Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom Connect with Lynnette on her website, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn 

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Personal Stories: Lynnette shares moving personal accounts that illustrate the resilience needed to overcome financial hardship and life's inevitable curveballs.
• Mental Health Comes First: Before tackling practical money issues, Lynnette emphasizes taking care of your mental and emotional well-being through self-compassion.
• Overcoming Shame: Breaking down the barriers to asking for help and support from one's community when facing difficulties.
• Practical Tips: The "zero debt mindset" philosophy and the "switch and save" strategy for paying down debt more effectively.
• The Long Game: Understanding that financial decisions have long-term impacts and that building true resilience is an ongoing process.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

To get your copy of the FREE Financial Technology Toolkit, click here and we'll send your guide directly to your email address.   

To learn more, visit the rich & REGULAR blog here

Tech literacy isn't a one-and-done skill. It requires continuous learning and adaptation as innovation marches on. And there are very few areas that are being transformed by technology as rapidly as personal finance and fintech.

To help bridge this literacy gap, we're introducing a free Fintech Toolkit aimed at empowering you to:

• Track and save money more effectively
• Automate and optimize your investing
• Protect yourself from the growing threat of financial fraud

In this episode, we dive into the startling lack of awareness around financial fraud. The statistics are staggering, but the invisibility of these crimes causes us to drastically underestimate the risks. Scaring people straight rarely works - we have to make protecting assets feel like a smart, rational choice.

And that's where fintech comes in. Our conversation explores the lack of awareness and discussion around financial fraud, highlighting the need for more attention and education on the topic. We also address the fear of embracing fintech and provide strategies for overcoming it. 

At the end of the day, crime and fraud follow the path of least resistance. The financial crimes of the future will continue targeting the people and businesses still using outdated, insecure practices and staying safe requires embracing new technological tools.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this episode, we’re discussing how to manage a windfall, whether it's a sudden influx of money from investments, bonuses, or unexpected events. We share our personal experiences with windfalls and the importance of splurging and treating yourself to experiences. We emphasize the need to resist the urge to act quickly and instead create a wish list and categorize priorities. We also discuss the importance of waiting and considering tax implications, as well as managing expectations and right-sizing giving. 

This episode also explores the cognitive benefits and financial muscle developed through lump sums and highlights the power of compounding interest and its role in accelerating financial plans. We also discuss how to handle large salary bumps or side hustle success and the need for preparation and planning, whether you should seek professional help for financial advice, along with customizing financial decisions based on individual circumstances

Links: 

• Haley and Justin's story (@PriceofAvocadoToast)
• Our favorite estate planning resource 

Takeaways:

• Splurging and treating oneself to experiences can be a valuable part of managing a windfall.
• Resist the urge to act quickly and take time to create a wish list and categorize priorities.  
• Consider the tax implications of a windfall and plan accordingly.
• Communicate and manage expectations with others who may have expectations of your windfall.
• Right-size your giving and allow yourself to experience the windfall before making promises.
• Careful planning is necessary when handling windfall money to ensure it is used effectively and does not cause unintended consequences 
• Lump sums can provide cognitive benefits and develop financial muscle, allowing for long-term thinking and intentional decision-making.
• Understanding the power of compounding interest can help accelerate financial plans and shorten the time needed to achieve financial goals.
• Making progress on financial goals is fulfilling and can provide a sense of freedom and security. 
• When experiencing a large salary bump or side hustle success, it is important to have a plan for the extra income and consider seeking professional advice.
• Customizing financial decisions based on individual circumstances and having a clear purpose for income are key to making informed choices.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this episode,  we respond to an email from a woman who wanted to know when to give up on a trucking business she started with her husband. The conversation covers topics such as faith, confidence, financial planning and finding the right partners, and we provide advice on calculating the cushion needed to support the business, as well as the importance of psychological resilience in entrepreneurship. 

This episode explores the differences in the role credit cards play in personal and business finances, highlighting the potential risks and challenges of relying on credit cards for business funding. It emphasizes the importance of financial planning, business support systems and having a larger cushion in retirement savings. 

The conversation also explores finding alternative sources of income, such as side gigs that align with skills and goals. Building relationships, networking, and normalizing backup plans are discussed as essential strategies for entrepreneurial success. The episode concludes with a focus on navigating financial stress and how gender norms affect the relationship dynamic.

Links: 

• Ep 135: Hitting the Highway to Success: Could Trucking be your Profitable Venture
• Cashing Out 
  
  

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Happy Women's History Month 2024! What does it mean to be a perfectionist? Is it a blessing or a curse? How does it affect your relationship with money, yourself, and others? In this special solo episode, Kiersten chats with Katherine Morgan Schafler, a psychotherapist and coach who helps people overcome perfectionism and live authentically. 

They talk about the different kinds of perfectionism, how social and historical forces shape them, and how they can be harnessed for good or bad. They also dig into the role of money in self-actualization, the link between self-worth and spending, and how to set financial goals that align with your values. Finally, they share some tips on how to break free from the cycle of self-punishment and embrace your flaws and strengths. In this episode, Katherine Morgan Schafler shares her insights on punishment vs. discipline, defining ‘enough,’ and balancing values and legacy.

Links: 

• Buy Katherine's book The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control: A Path to Peace and Power 
• Follow Katherine on Instagram or visit her website 

Here are some key takeaways from this conversation:

• Perfectionism is not a monolithic trait. It can be adaptive or maladaptive, depending on how it affects your well-being and performance 
• Money can be a tool for empowerment, but it can also be a source of anxiety and insecurity. It’s important to understand how your self-worth influences your spending habits and financial decisions 
• Setting good financial goals requires knowing what you value and what you appreciate. It also requires being honest with yourself about what you need and what you want.
• Self-worth is not the same as self-esteem. Self-worth is about what you believe you deserve, while self-esteem is about what you think about yourself. Both are influenced by your social and cultural context.
• Breaking the cycle of self-punishment involves meeting yourself with compassion and understanding. Punishment only teaches us to avoid the source of punishment, while discipline seeks to extinguish negative behaviors through the promotion of positive behaviors.
• To define ‘enough,’ start by identifying what is not enough for you and then determine what is enough on a survival level and what makes you feel good. Then, compare your current situation with your ideal situation and see what gaps you need to fill.
• Balancing values and legacy involves understanding what you value, how those values show up in your daily life, and what you do not value. It also involves thinking about how you want to be remembered and what impact you want to have on the world.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this episode, we’re talking about how we parent our son Beau and teach him about money. We share our philosophy of raising a rich kid, not by giving him everything he wants, but by teaching him the value of saving and investing from a young age. We also talk about the pressure we feel as parents to provide more for our child, and how we use self-imposed constraints to teach him responsibility. We explain how we use video games and sports as metaphors to help Beau understand the concepts of earning and investing. We also discuss the importance of providing a financial cushion for our child's future, so he can have more choices and opportunities in life. At the end of the episode, we interview Beau himself, who shares his thoughts on saving money.

Beau is six years old and tells us how he learned about saving money from us and from his own experiences. He shares how he explains the concept of saving money to his friends and his teachers. He tells us his savings goals and his dreams of becoming a millionaire. He also reveals his plans to make money as a baseball player.  Beau believes that having a house, food, and family are the most important things for a "perfect" life.

We emphasize the importance of not overcomplicating the process of teaching kids about money and making it a normal part of our daily lives. We stress that investing for kids is not something elitist or exclusive, but something fundamental and necessary. 

Links: 

• Learn more about OneUnited bank 
• Episode 75: Financially Preparing for a Child
• Episode 69: Investing for your kids 

Takeaways

• Teaching kids about saving and investing from a young age is one of the best gifts we can give them as parents.
• We don't have to give kids everything they want, but we have to teach them the financial implications and consequences of their choices.
• Using metaphors and real-life examples can make the concepts of saving and investing more relatable and understandable for kids.
• A financial cushion can give kids more freedom and flexibility in the future, but it also comes with responsibility and accountability.
• We have to have open and honest conversations with kids about money and involve them in our financial decisions.
• Saving money is a habit that can be developed from a young age, and it can have a positive impact on kids' future.
• Putting money in the bank is not enough, we have to teach our kids how to invest and grow their money.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this episode, we talk about the concept of overconfidence in investing, also known as the confidence trap. We explain why confidence is important and how it can either help or hinder us in achieving our goals. We also examine the role of ego in investing and how it affects our self-image as investors and use culinary references and personal stories to make our points. We stress the difference between investing and gambling, and the need to understand and manage risk. The episode ends with some tips for making better investment decisions and seeking advice from experienced investors.

Takeaways

• Confidence can be a double-edged sword in investing.
• Ego influences how we see ourselves as investors.
• The relationship between work and investing can affect our risk appetite.
• Investing should be done with a mindset of doing less and avoiding overdoing it.
• Investing and gambling are not the same thing.
• Calculating risks and considering beta and R-squared can help us make better investment decisions.
• Investing should be seen as a slow and steady process, not a fun or exciting one.
• Seeking advice from experienced investors and learning from personal stories can give us valuable insights.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this episode, we discuss capsule wardrobes and how this approach can help people save time and money.  In it, they explore how men and women differ in their adoption of the tactic.  Specifically, men are more likely to call a capsule wardrobe a uniform.  They also discuss the high costs associated with maintaining a professional wardrobe and what they did during their corporate careers to manage it.

During the conversation, Julien and Kiersten are joined by a special guest, Winston Peters.  Winston is a Business and Brand Strategist, Consultant, Adjunct Professor at Manhattan College, and Julien's long-time friend.  He is the only person he knows who adopted a uniform; though [interestingly enough] he refers to his capsule wardrobe as an "alphabet" and chooses to always wear the color black

 Winston shares how he came to make the decision to adopt this style, the benefits it affords him, whether he encountered any "backlash" as a result of his wardrobe decision and how others have reacted to it over the years.

Connect with Winston on LinkedIn 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week we're diving deep into the heart of the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement and asking whether it's really a movement...or just a quirky personal finance trend.

We explore the intersections of history, finance, work culture, technology, and societal change and discuss what defines a movement, how FIRE has benefited from several larger societal shifts, and how even the tiniest seeds of change, like feelings of embarrassment, fatigue, or frustration, can spark lasting change.

Show notes, articles, research or data mentioned in the episode:

Wall Street Journal: Black Investors Are the Biggest New Group of Stock Buyers
Morningstar: It's Official: Passive Funds Overtake Active Funds
CBS News: Toxic workplaces can harm your physical and mental health, surgeon general says:
Claudia Goldin win Nobel economics prize for work on gender gap: 

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

What does it mean to be a Costco member in 2024? This week we’re loud budgeting our grocery bill and discussing our recent decision to get a Costco membership. We share our initial impressions of the store, the perks we have enjoyed so far, and a few factors to consider when deciding whether a Costco membership is right for you. 

Food is a Big 3 expense for most households and with recent price surges, many people are feeling the squeeze on their budgets. 

Throughout the episode, we encourage you to think critically about your shopping habits and preferences and ask yourself how much you truly need, how much you can store, and how much money you can save. We also talk about the importance of understanding your consumption, being mindful of food waste, and supporting your community through responsible shopping practices.  

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This week our guest is Jamila Souffrant, host of the Journey to Launch podcast and author of the new book, Your Journey to Financial Freedom. In this conversation, we discuss her journey to financial independence and the lessons she has learned along the way. 

We talked about how she reached her breaking point and decided to pursue financial independence, how the FIRE movement inspired and challenged her, the importance of including various options in personal finance education, and the impact of immigration stories on financial journeys. We also discuss the challenges and strategies of raising financially savvy kids and the evergreen principles of financial education that apply to anyone. 

Jamila believes that building wealth is not about chasing the latest trends or optimizing every penny, but about finding a balance between what makes you happy and what makes you secure. She shares the importance of taking a 'boring' approach to building wealth, encouraging you to focus on sustainable and fulfilling strategies rather than constant optimization. She also emphasizes the value of investing in low-cost index funds and retirement accounts as a foundation for financial security. 

Get Jamila’s new book, Your Journey to Financial Freedom wherever books are sold. Subscribe to the Journey to Launch podcast and keep up with Jamila on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

Takeaways

• The journey to financial independence often starts with a breaking point, where individuals realize they can no longer accept their current circumstances.
• The FIRE movement can be a powerful tool for achieving financial independence, and it is important to find resources and communities that resonate with your personal journey.
• Including various options and frameworks in personal finance education allows individuals to find a path that aligns with their goals and values.
• Immigration stories can provide valuable lessons and inspiration for financial journeys, highlighting the sacrifices and determination required to create a better life.
• Teaching children about money and investing should focus on the concepts of income, expenses, and the importance of balancing present enjoyment with long-term goals.

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers of the recent layoff phenomenon, a storm that’s been brewing and hit hardest in 2023. Our take is that it’s not just about job loss; it’s a cultural shift within organizations that leaves a lasting imprint. This episode is here to help you navigate this storm, armed with insights and strategies that improve your chances of success.

We’ve identified four common mistakes that people often stumble into post-layoff: assuming it won’t happen again, the temptation to keep it a secret, neglecting hard skills and certifications, and leaving a 401(k) with a former employer. These are not just mistakes; they’re missed opportunities for growth and resilience. If anything this episode is a reminder of the importance of staying the course even when faced with adversity. It’s about weathering the storm, not avoiding it. So join us, we’ve got a lot to talk about. 

Links: 

• Episode 53: Upskilling to earn more money 
• LinkedIn Future of Skills tool 

Takeaways

• Layoffs have become more common, and it is important to be prepared and proactive in navigating the challenges.
• Assuming layoffs won't happen again can leave you unprepared and vulnerable. It is important to be aware of the signs and be proactive in protecting yourself.
• Keeping a layoff a secret can hinder your ability to find new opportunities and receive support from your network. It is important to be open and transparent about your situation.
• Neglecting hard skills and certifications can limit your job prospects. It is important to continuously develop and update your skills to stay competitive in the job market.
• Leaving your 401(k) with your former employer can result in missed opportunities for growth and potential fees. It is important to consider your options and make informed decisions about your retirement savings. 
• Roll over your 401k account into a different retirement account to minimize fees and contribute to your retirement.
• Leaving your 401k with an old employer can lead to losing track of your investments, limited access, and changes in investment allocation.
• Update beneficiary designations to avoid complications 
• Understand the difference between direct and indirect rollovers and the importance of investing the funds in your new account.
• Use the time to consider opening a different investment account and continue investing even after a layoff

Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life.

Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by Forbes

If you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow