Explore every episode of the podcast Financial Coaching for Women: How To Budget, Manage Money, Pay Off Debt, Save Money, Paycheck Plans

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Schedule an Annual Planning Session

Hey Budget Besties — can you believe it? We’re heading into 2026. 😲
New year. New budget. Same us — making sure your money is working for you (not the other way around).

In this episode, we’re not just dreaming about the future — we’re putting real numbers behind it.
We’re walking you through how to set your financial goals for 2026 with intention, purpose, and a plan that actually fits your life.

Whether your year ahead is full of college visits, career changes, or your dream trip to Bali (yes please 🙋‍♀️), you’ll learn how to:

• Think about your short, midterm, and long-term money goals

• Tie your financial decisions directly to what you care about

• Create a realistic, flexible plan that makes your dreams doable

• Avoid the “woo” and keep your financial feet on the ground (but don’t worry, we’ll still get you excited!)

• And finally take that bills debit card out of your wallet 👀

We know life’s busy. Maybe you’re not doing vision boards or chanting under a full moon — but you still want clarity, confidence, and a budget that reflects your real goals.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Check out Carrie's Podcast!

We’re bringing back one of our all-time favorite convos with our good friend and Diet Disruptor queen, Carrie Lupoli! If you missed it the first time (or need a refresh), get ready for one seriously powerful conversation on how your financial health and physical health go hand-in-hand.

Carrie has called us her besties for years (aw 🥹), and in this re-air, we finally sat down with her on the mic to talk about how getting your money in check can actually transform your mental clarity, stress levels, and even your relationship with food.

👯‍♀️ What We Chat About:

1. The surprising connection between financial stress and health struggles

2. Why “not knowing what you don’t know” is not your fault—and how to unlearn it

3. How Carrie and her husband completely shifted their money mindset and now have money left at the end of the month 🙌

4. What it means to budget like a grown-up without giving up brunch, beauty, or bacon 🍳

5. Why credit card “points” aren’t doing you any favors (sorry, not sorry 😅)

6. A simple, automated budgeting system that makes life easier—yes, automagically 🪄

7. Teaching your kids financial confidence early (Carrie’s 20-year-old is thriving!)

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Check out Office Hours!

Guess who’s back on the podcast? Our incredible coach Michelle is here, and she’s bringing the behind-the-scenes scoop from office hours — aka where the magic happens every single week.

Whether you’ve joined us live or you’re wondering what office hours are all about, this episode breaks down the real questions people are asking (and the “aha” moments they’re walking away with).

From paycheck planning to deciding between savings buckets and spending accounts, this convo is full of clarity, encouragement, and real-life strategy.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System! 

Schedule an Annual Planning Session.

Budget besties, 2026 is almost here—but don’t skip the most important step: looking back at your 2025 money moves. 👀💸

In this episode, we’re walking you through a quick + powerful Year-in-Review so you can:

• Actually see where your money went

• Celebrate how far you've come (yes, even if it doesn’t feel like it)

• Spot what needs adjusting before you set 2026 goals

We’re talking debt payoff, savings buckets, spending patterns, life changes—and how to use that info to feel way more confident going into the new year.

✨ Grab your free checklist: budgetbesties.com/yearinreview
✨ Simplified Budget System owners — book your one-time planning session at budgetbesties.com/annualplanning
✨ Bootcamp is coming Dec 29th: budgetbesties.com/bootcamp

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

You know what time it is... it's DECEMBER BUDGET TIME! 🎁 And if you're like us, you're probably already bracing for the whirlwind of holidays, parties, gifts, and those sneaky little expenses that come outta nowhere (we see you, secret Santa and gymnastics party #3).

In this episode, we walk you step-by-step through how to build your December budget before the chaos takes over—because clarity now means peace later.

Here’s what we’re diving into:

✅ Closing out November

Before we do anything for December, we gotta see how November wrapped up. That means checking bills, income changes, surprise spending, and making sure your budget reflects what actually happened, not just what you planned.

✅ Setting Up December’s Budget

We start fresh—but not really! If you're using our system, it all auto-fills based on last month, so you’re not building from scratch. We show you how to plug in your income, including paychecks, side hustles, garage sales—you name it. Every dollar coming in matters.

✅ Listing Your Debt Minimums

No skipping this step. We’re laying out all those minimum payments so you can see exactly how much debt is costing you monthly. Why? Because awareness = power. And some of y’all are one payoff away from a BIG monthly win!

✅ Mapping Out Your Bills

We walk you through how to list every bill with a due date—from the mortgage and electric to those pesky subscriptions that add up fast. (Looking at you, 7 streaming services.)

✅ Budgeting for Spending—Yes, Real Life Spending

Gas. Groceries. Fun. Kid stuff. Personal spending. We break down how we use separate checking accounts for each so you know what’s safe to spend—no tracking needed. 🙌

✅ Planning for the Extras This Month

December’s got layers: holiday travel, birthdays, class parties, random gift exchanges. We show you where to plug in those “extras” so they don’t sneak-attack your budget.

✅ Stacking Your Savings Buckets

Whether it’s for Christmas 2026 or your annual HOA fee, those savings buckets are key to staying out of debt for good. We give you the rundown on how our clients are funding theirs, even in a busy season.

✅ Using Leftover Money With Intention

Once everything’s plugged in, what’s left? That’s the magic. Whether it’s extra debt payments or beefing up your savings, we show you how to finish your budget strong—without guessing.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Hey, budget besties! 🙌

This week, we're bringing you straight into the coaching room—real client convos, real financial struggles, and real solutions that you can take and use TODAY.

We’re covering two big topics:

Whether you’re team “chores-for-cash” or you’re just trying to give your teen lunch money without handing over your debit card—this one’s for you.

We break down:

• Why separate kid accounts are a game changer

• How to start small with a simple debit card setup (no fancy apps needed!)

• What to do if your kids have jobs, commute siblings, or help around the house

• How this ONE system builds financial literacy, teaches responsibility, and saves you from being the Bank of Mom & Dad

Bottom line? This is less about the money and more about the life skills you’re handing your kids. And you don’t need some overpriced app to do it. You’ve got this.

We’re also diving deep into something that comes up all the time in our coaching sessions: trust around money in relationships.

Shana shares a powerful story from a couple who had been together for nearly 20 years but still hadn’t fully merged their finances. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t because of anything they did to each other—it was childhood money trauma they never unpacked.

We talk about:

• What might really be behind your hesitation to combine finances

• Why getting financially naked might be the real intimacy block 😬

• How to have honest conversations about past mistakes, guilt, and money baggage

• The path forward when there’s a history of mistrust—and how healing IS possible

If you’re married (or partnered) and feel like you’re in your own financial lane, this episode will hit home.

Whether you're teaching your teens to track their balances or working through decades of financial “stuff” with your partner, just know—we’re in this with you.

You’re not behind.
You’re not the only one.
And you’re definitely not alone.

🧡 We're cheering you on every step of the way.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Let’s clear the air: an emergency fund is NOT a catch-all for life’s expenses. Most of what wrecks your budget month to month? Not true emergencies — just unexpected-but-actually-expected stuff like car repairs, insurance renewals, and holiday madness.

In this episode, we’re breaking down:

1. The real difference between an emergency fund and savings buckets

2. Why saving $1,000 and calling it a day isn’t the move

3. What to do before paying off debt

4. The 6 steps we walk our clients through (and why this order makes your budget work better)

5. Why you’re always draining your savings account without realizing it

🎯 We’ll also chat about how to:

1. Figure out how much you need in your mini emergency fund

2. Brainstorm savings buckets that make sense for your real life

3. Avoid the “oops, I forgot about that bill” panic

4. Finally create a financial plan that’s flexible, clear, and works for you

Plus: We share details on our upcoming Budget Bootcamp starting December 29th! (Don’t worry — no homework now, just get your name on the list.)

This episode is your budget reset button — whether you’re just starting or you’ve been winging it and wondering why it’s not working.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget besties, whew — grab your tissues and your coffee. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mackenzie, a wife, mama of two, and full-time working powerhouse navigating a major life pivot after her husband lost his job. Spoiler: this conversation is about so much more than money.

From a job loss to reworking their budget and leaning into a new side hustle, Mackenzie walks us through the real life stuff — the stress, the faith, and the tough decisions that so many of us face but don’t always talk about.

We dig into:

💸 What to do when your income suddenly drops

🏡 Why selling your house might not be the answer

🧮 How to actually figure out how long your savings can last

❤️ The emotional weight of being the breadwinner... and choosing not to be anymore

💡 Why pursuing purpose can still be part of your financial plan

🙌 And the reminder we all need: THIS is why we budget — so we’re prepared when life hits

Mackenzie’s vulnerability, grit, and heart are what this community is all about. If you’ve ever felt like you're holding everything together with duct tape and coffee, this one’s for you.

Today, we’re bringing you another round of real-life stories and real-life lessons straight from our private coaching sessions. Because if our clients are dealing with it… chances are you are too.

Our goal? To help you avoid the same mistakes, feel less alone, and walk away with practical wins you can use today in your budget.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today, we’re bringing you another round of real-life stories and real-life lessons straight from our private coaching sessions. Because if our clients are dealing with it… chances are you are too.

Our goal? To help you avoid the same mistakes, feel less alone, and walk away with practical wins you can use today in your budget.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

In this replay, we’re taking you back to a powerful holiday episode where we teamed up with the amazing Anna from the It's About Time Podcast! If Christmas tends to sneak up on you (and your wallet), this one’s a must-listen. We're sharing our best-kept secrets for cash flowing Christmas, ditching the credit cards, and yes—still being bougie on a budget 🎁✨

We break down:

1. Why you don’t have a spending problem—you just need to get organized

2. How our grandparents had 5-line-item budgets, and now we’re dealing with 85 tabs open in our brains 🤯

3. Why relying on credit cards for Christmas is a recipe for a holiday hangover

4. How to start being your own bank 💰 (bye-bye, points that don't pay)

5. Why budgeting isn’t restrictive—it’s just a plan for your priorities

6. The 5-column budget system we teach that makes things click

7. How to budget for Christmas without giving up what you love (pumpkin spice included ☕)

8. What to include in your holiday budget (spoiler: it’s more than just gifts)

9. How to loop in your kids without the money stress or guilt

10. Why Christmas can (and should!) be generous and planned

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

In today’s episode of Financial Coaching for Women, we sit down with Ashley—newly married, newly budgeting, and ready to take control of her family’s finances. Just two months into their budgeting journey, Ashley and her husband are working hard to live on their salaries alone so they can put commission checks toward debt payoff and long-term goals. But with unexpected expenses, consolidated loans, and a busy family life, staying on track isn’t always easy.

Together, we walk through her real numbers, real questions, and real challenges. If you're early in your budgeting journey—or trying to get back on track—you’ll feel right at home in this conversation.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today, we’re bringing you real stories and lessons straight from our private coaching sessions — because if our clients are dealing with it, chances are you are too. From credit card points to refinancing decisions, we’re breaking down what’s really happening behind the numbers so you can avoid the same mistakes, feel less alone, and walk away with some quick wins for your budget.

You’ll hear about a client who thought credit card points were the key to “winning” with money (spoiler: they weren’t), how another family is tackling a 7% mortgage the smart way, and why simple awareness can transform everything about how you spend, save, and plan.

This episode is full of aha moments, real talk, and encouragement for anyone ready to move from surviving to thriving. 💪

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Get our DIY Debt Relief Workbook!

If you’ve ever felt tempted to call one of those “we’ll fix your debt for you” companies — this episode is for you. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on debt consolidation, settlement, and relief companies, and explaining how their promises can actually hurt your credit, delay progress, and drain your savings.

Instead, we’ll show you how to DIY your own debt relief plan — without paying someone else to do what you can do (better!) yourself. You’ll learn how to organize your debt, negotiate with creditors, and build a system that puts you in control.

This one’s packed with real talk, stories from our coaching clients, and encouragement for anyone ready to finally make progress on their debt — the smart way. 💪

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

College Ready with Shellee Howard

Y’all… this one is a must-listen if you’ve got high schoolers (or even middle schoolers 👀) under your roof. We sat down with college admissions expert Shellee Howard, and wow — she dropped SO many gems on how to help your kids go to college without taking on student loan debt. And yes, even if you’re not “low income.” There is strategy. There is money. And you’re probably missing it because you don’t know what you don’t know. Until now.

🎙 Here’s what we cover inside this episode:

• The biggest misconceptions parents have about college admissions (you’ve probably thought at least one!)

• Why relying on your high school counselor to help with college planning could cost you big time 💸

• The three buckets of money (merit, independent scholarships & need-based aid) and how to tap into them

• What really makes a student stand out on applications

• Why community service is the golden ticket — and how to help your kid find their unique lane 🎯

• The ROI mindset shift that’ll change how you and your kids pick a school

• Genius email tips (parents, your teen will miss deadlines… unless you do this ✅)

💬 Real talk moments we loved:

• “If you’re letting your teen pick their college list based on football teams or campus colors...we gotta talk.”

• “You’re not just sending them to college — you’re making a six-figure decision. So let’s treat it like one.”

• “Merit aid = they want you. So your kid better know how to bring it.”

👀 Favorite quote:

“There is SO much money out there. It’s not about being poor. It’s about knowing where to find it — and how to position your child as an asset to the school.”

📝 Free resources Shellee shared in this episode:

• College Ready Plan info: https://collegereadyplan.info (she’s got a hidden spot just for our listeners 😉)

• Empower Education World: A student-led nonprofit offering service hours + real impact https://empowereducationworld.org

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Michelle is back! 🎉 In this episode, we’re catching up with our beloved office hours coach, Michelle, to celebrate client wins, lessons learned, and the powerful mindset shifts happening inside our Budget Besties community.

From one client paying off $65,000 in less than a year to couples learning how to work as a team on their finances, this conversation is full of encouragement and practical takeaways. Michelle shares stories from her weekly office hours — where members bring their real budgets, ask real questions, and walk away with real results.

Whether you’re struggling to get your spouse on board, trying to simplify your money system, or just need some hope that your effort is paying off — this episode is for you. 💪

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Most people think budgeting means cutting back and saying “no” to everything fun — but we’re here to tell you it’s actually about saying yes! Yes to dinner out. Yes to vacations. Yes to the things you love — but with cash in hand and zero stress.

In this episode, we wrap up the Budget Besties Method with Step 8: Be Bougie on a Budget. You’ll hear how real clients and friends are living their best lives — from country clubs and horses to golf memberships and healthy food — all while sticking to their budgets. Because “bougie” looks different for everyone, and it’s not about how much you spend; it’s about spending with intention.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget besties, they're baaaack! Erin and Sarah return to the mic to share how their family is navigating yet another government shutdown — this time with way more peace of mind, way less panic, and (spoiler alert) a fully funded emergency fund. 🙌🏽

In this real and super timely episode, we dive into:

• What it’s really like to lose 50% of your household income overnight

• How the Simplified Budget System helped them stay calm (even when things got tight)

• The power of being your own bank — and avoiding credit card debt

• Strategic cuts (bye, vitamins 👋) + non-negotiables (hello, gymnastics 🤸‍♀️)

• How Sarah’s side hustle is showing up big time right now

• And how they’re getting their girls involved in budgeting without guilt or shame

If you’re in the thick of financial uncertainty — whether it's a shutdown, job loss, or just a tight season — Erin and Sarah’s story is your reminder that there is a way through it with clarity, connection, and cash flow that actually makes sense.

You’ll also hear:

• What gets paused (subscriptions), what stays (horse food 🐴), and what gets tabled (Erin’s dream gun purchase)

• Why getting on the same page with your partner is everything

• How budgeting before the emergency hit changed everything about how they’re managing it now

Budgeting doesn't solve everything. But it does give you choices. And these two are living proof. 🫶🏽

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Vanessa and Shayna walk you step-by-step through wrapping up October and setting up your budget for the new month — from matching your numbers to planning for Thanksgiving, travel volleyball, and yes… even surprise bills.

Because guess what? You don’t have to do your budget alone. We’ve got you. ❤️

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Here’s why most budgets fail: they’re manual. Every week, you’re trying to remember what’s due, what’s left, and what you were supposed to transfer. The more hands-on your budget is, the more likely you’ll skip a step, make a mistake, or just run out of time.

But what if your budget could run automagically? ✨

In this laugh-out-loud episode, Shayna and Vanessa show you how to set up your bank so it becomes your personal assistant — moving money to the right place at the right time without you lifting a finger.

With the help of one of the funniest metaphors we’ve ever had (spoiler: it involves curling irons and teenage daughters 😅), the Besties explain why the old way of budgeting is like burning your hair in the ‘90s — and how automation makes your money come to life “Be Our Guest”-style.

You’ll walk away knowing exactly how to make your bills, savings, and spending accounts run themselves… so your budget finally works while you go live your life.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Divorce is one of the most emotionally and financially challenging transitions you can go through — but it doesn’t have to mean financial chaos.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shayna and Vanessa sit down with Linda, a listener who’s in the middle of an amicable divorce but still navigating shared accounts, joint debts, and a home they co-own.

Together, they walk through how to start separating finances, set up a simple money system, and communicate effectively with a spouse during such a sensitive season. You’ll hear practical steps for setting boundaries, tracking shared bills, and creating financial independence — even before the divorce is finalized.

If you’re trying to move forward financially while everything feels messy, this episode will give you both clarity and confidence. 💪

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Hey, Budget Besties! 👋

Today, we’re reairing one of our favorite conversations — a guest appearance we did with our good friend Jesse Merchan, host of the Bold Faith Moves podcast. This was the very first time her community talked about budgeting on her show — and we went all in on making the “B word” less scary, more joyful, and a whole lot more empowering. 💪✨

In this episode, we share our story of friendship and faith, how we both became debt-free, and the real-life budgeting tips that changed everything. You’ll learn how to simplify your money, stop feeling overwhelmed, and still enjoy the life God’s blessed you with — yes, even if you love Target runs and pumpkin spice lattes. ☕💸

• 💳 The one simple bank account hack that will change your financial life

• 🏦 Why separating bills and spending money brings instant clarity and peace

• 💁‍♀️ How to be “bougie on a budget” — and still hit your money goals

• 🔁 How to automate your money so it practically runs itself

• 🙌 Why budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom and stewardship

• 💖 The faith-filled mindset shift that turns guilt and shame into peace and purpose

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

You make way too much money to be in this much debt — and we say that with love. ❤️

If you’re swiping your credit card for groceries, juggling balances between cards, and convincing yourself it’s worth it “for the points,” this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the truth about debt — how it keeps you stuck in the past — and showing you what it really means to fund your future instead.

Today, we’re talking about why your credit card is not your budget, what it looks like to be your own bank, and the small but powerful steps that help you stop relying on debt once and for all.

• 💳 Why using credit cards (even if you pay them off every month) keeps you one month behind

• 🏦 How to be your own bank and stop borrowing from your future

• 💡 Why “earning points” is not the same as earning interest — and how to actually win with your money

• 💬 The simple mindset shift that breaks the habit of relying on credit

• 💰 Practical steps to remove credit cards from your daily spending — and finally use your own money

• 📘 How our DIY Debt Relief Workbook can help you talk to creditors, negotiate balances, and take control

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored....

Sign Up For The Challenge Now

Festive season is coming in hot—and you don’t need to white-knuckle it. In this bonus chat with time management coach Anna Dearmon Kornick, we talk about setting a holiday vision, building simple guardrails for both time and money, and saying “yes” to what matters (and no to the rest). Plus: details on the Take Back Your Time Challenge: Stress-Free Holiday Edition—and our VIP workshop, Bougie on a Budget: How to Cash-Flow Christmas (No Holiday Hangover).

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

In this heartfelt episode of Financial Coaching for Women, we’re joined by Kayden — a former coaching client whose story will remind you that it’s never too late to turn financial frustration into freedom.

Kayden and her husband went from constant miscommunication and missed payments to budgeting as a team, buying a home, and cash-flowing their life — even after a massive income cut. Her journey shows that progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence, communication, and trusting the process.

If you’ve ever felt like you “make good money but have nothing to show for it,” this one’s for you.

• 💡 How Kayden went from “making good money with nothing to show for it” to paying every bill on time

• 🏠 How she and her husband bought a house while learning to budget together

• 💬 The mindset shifts that helped her improve communication with her spouse — even when he wasn’t in coaching

• 💳 How she tackled confusing student loans, renegotiated payoffs, and started cash-flowing expenses

• 🪣 Why starting small with savings buckets and guilt-free spending changed everything

• 📉 What to do when your income gets cut in half (and how to rebuild without panic)

• 🙌 The power of accountability, persistence, and coaching — even when life gets messy

🧭 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today we’re bringing you real-life stories and real lessons straight from our private coaching sessions. If our clients are struggling with it, chances are you are too. We’re breaking down the mistakes we see most often, how to fix them, and how to set yourself up for easy, stress-free money wins.

In this episode, we’re talking about two of the biggest budget busters we see:
1️⃣ Overcomplicating your money system with third-party apps like PayPal and Apple Pay.
2️⃣ Losing track of your true numbers — like your real minimum payments — and making your budget harder than it needs to be.

These stories will help you see how small tweaks can completely change how confident and in control you feel with your money.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Most people say their budgets get blown by “surprise” expenses — but let’s be real: Christmas isn’t a surprise. New tires? Not a surprise. Your dog’s annual vet visit? Definitely not a surprise. These are expected expenses that just don’t happen every month.

In this episode, we’re tackling how to stop the rollercoaster of “I was fine last month, now I’m swiping the credit card.” The solution? Savings buckets. When you create separate savings accounts for predictable but irregular expenses, you save today to avoid borrowing tomorrow.

• Why most “surprise” expenses aren’t really surprises

• How savings buckets can bring stability to your monthly budget

• The exact steps to set up your own buckets

• Real-life stories from clients who’ve transformed their finances using this method

• 
  

💡 What You’ll Learn

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Get Our Simplified Budget System!

Quick Friday pop-in! If you make good money but have nothing to show for it, we walk through our simple, one-page budget system that actually matches how you live. You’ll learn the 5 money categories, how a separate Bills Account puts payments on autopilot, why separate spending cards end the guilt/fights, and how named savings buckets plus a clear debt plan tell you exactly what to do each payday—no expense logging required. Real client wins, practical steps, and a calmer way to pay bills, kill debt, and still enjoy life. 💸✨

00:00 – Introduction: Why You Need a Budget System for Financial Success

00:23 – Common Budgeting Mistakes: Why Tracking Expenses Isn’t Enough

01:07 – The Overwhelm of Money Management and How to Fix It

01:29 – The Five Simple Budget Categories for Real-Life Spending

02:43 – How Our Editable Budget System Works (and Why It’s Different)

04:11 – Powerful Tools: Savings Tracker, Debt Payoff, and Asset Management

05:38 – Real User Testimonials: Transforming Finances with Our Budget System

07:18 – The Power of Knowing Your Numbers: Net Worth, Debt, and Savings

08:34 – Automating Your Bills and Achieving Financial Organization

10:03 – Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Money with the Best Budget System

Client Wins We Read On Air

• Tammy: “6 months in—buckets growing, bills dropping, husband’s on board.”

• Rebecca: “Finally seeing my money clearly. Planned debt payoff + categorized savings = game changer.”

• Barbara: “Paid off 7 cards. Use cash for almost everything. No more checking the account before buying gas.”

• Lindsay: “Less stress. No guilt. Separate spending accounts = harmony.”

• Jess: “Net worth rising is my new favorite hobby.”

• Kathleen: “Went from $1,000 over each month to finally breaking the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.”

• Lori: “Autopaid bills from a designated account = zero stress.”

• Amanda: “Bird’s-eye month + Paycheck Plan replaced my old tracker. So much clearer.”

• Melissa: “It does the math. I actually have more money than I thought.”

• Sheena & Becky: “Whole-picture clarity → car paid off, long-term goals funded.”

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Ever feel like your work life and home budget are in a tug-of-war? Same, bestie — and you’re not alone. This week, we sat down with Stephanie, a law professor who’s been making huge moves with her money using our budget system. But like many of us, she hit a snag when it came to business travel.

Stephanie’s story is a masterclass in navigating:

• Work reimbursements that take months

• Whether credit cards are ever worth it (spoiler: rarely, but sometimes!)

• How to separate personal and professional expenses without losing your mind (or your receipts)

• Setting up a system that actually works — especially when math isn’t your thing

We cover:
✔️ Pre-funding business trips
✔️ Why a separate bank account is a game-changer
✔️ How to track expenses without burning out
✔️ What to do about credit card perks like car rental insurance or international fees
✔️ And why setting a weekly “receipt party” on your calendar might be your new best friend

Stephanie also shares how budgeting is now a whole family thing — from planning for Christmas (without the chaos) to giving her kids their own savings accounts (and real-time money lessons 💪).

Whether you're a working parent, frequent traveler, or just tired of the budget rollercoaster — this episode is packed with smart, doable strategies to help you stay on track and feel in control.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links,...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today’s episode is ripped straight from real coaching convos with our clients — because if they’re dealing with it, chances are you are too. We’re talking about a common money trap that shows up in more budgets than you’d think: whole life insurance.

Spoiler alert: It’s not a good investment.
Not when you’re paying hundreds a month, not seeing any return, and living outside your means just to keep it going.

We break down:

• Why whole life insurance is rarely worth it (especially when your budget is tight)

• The difference between whole life and term life insurance

• What to do if you’ve already been paying into a whole life policy

• How to reorder your financial steps so you can actually build wealth (on your own terms)

We’re all about helping you avoid costly mistakes, feel seen, and walk away with quick wins. So whether you're paying $473/month into a policy that’s draining you or wondering if your “life insurance” line item is doing anything for you — this one's for you.

Remember: we want you to save, invest, and protect your family on purpose — and in the right order. Let’s get that money back in your budget and get you back in control.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Hey budget besties! Today we’re cleaning out that messy “junk drawer” bank account and giving your money actual homes. If everything’s been tangled together—paychecks in, bills out, Target runs, Starbucks, gas, kids’ surprises—no wonder it feels like your money’s disappearing. We’ve got you. 💛

• Why one catch-all account = chaos (hi, stress 👋🏽)

• The Lisa story (aka how pedicure money turns into cupcakes, milkshakes, gas, and laundry pods)

• The simplest way to create freedom to spend without tracking every transaction

• How to use digital envelopes with four separate debit accounts:

  1. Gas & Groceries

  2. Restaurants

  3. Personal/Fun Money

  4. Kids

  
  

• How this step pairs with the V-System so bills get paid first, spending lives separately, and guilt goes bye!

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Check Out Ral's Mastermind Program!

We’re chatting with our friend Ral West, a powerhouse entrepreneur who’s all about building a business that serves your life, not the other way around. Ral’s got 40+ years of experience, has built and sold a wildly successful company, and now teaches business owners how to get their time, health, and freedom back.

Let’s just say… she’s walking the walk — 52 podcast interviews, a course, a mastermind, and a month-long vacation on the books. 👏🏽

In This Episode, We Cover:

1. The real cost of letting your business run your life

2. How to systematize, automate, and delegate (without micromanaging!)

3. The art of effective delegation — and why most people are doing it wrong

4. Why your business should support your dream life, not suck it dry

5. The 6 foundational principles RA teaches to help business owners scale and enjoy life

6. The connection between financial clarity, boundaries, and building a sustainable business

“If it doesn’t fit into my dream life vision — I don’t do it.” – Ral West 🙌🏾

We also had a total alignment moment around budgeting! Because y’all know we’re big fans of automation, delegation, and systems — whether you’re managing your business or your money. 💸

So if you’re out here trying to do it all yourself (in your business, at home, or with your money), this is your sign to pause, reset, and start building systems that actually support your life.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Learn About Office Hours!

Budget besties, we’ve got a very special guest on the pod today… our very own teammate and financial coaching pro, Michelle! 🎉

This episode marks a first—Michelle’s first time on the mic with us, and we’re diving into what’s really happening behind the scenes during our free weekly Office Hours. We’re calling this new series “Lessons from the Sessions,” and trust us, Michelle is bringing the wisdom, encouragement, and big sister energy you didn’t know you needed.

We talk about:

1. How Michelle went from podcast listener to being a core part of our team ❤️

2. What led her to financial coaching (hello, emergency fund = credit card era 👋)

3. Why getting a paycheck ahead is the #1 topic in Office Hours—and how you can get there too

4. The truth about savings buckets (yes, we love them, but no, you don’t start there!)

5. Why being detail-obsessed with your spending might actually be slowing you down

6. And how just showing up—even if you’re not ready to talk—can move you forward

Michelle also gives us a peek into the kinds of questions people bring each week, and why Office Hours have become a lifeline for so many women trying to make their money feel steady and stress-free.

📅 Office Hours happen every Wednesday at 12pm CT and are 100% free to everyone in our community—no system or coaching purchase required. If you’ve got questions, feel stuck, or just want to listen in and learn, Michelle’s your girl.

We’re SO excited to bring her back on the pod monthly to share more real-life insights from these powerful sessions. Get ready to feel encouraged, empowered, and way less alone in your money journey.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Check out our Stress Free Bills Mini Class!

Ever find yourself nervously swiping your debit card, praying your bills are already covered? You're not alone—and it's not your fault. In this episode, we’re diving into Step 3 of the Budget Besties Method: setting up a dedicated Bills account. 🙌🏽

When your bills have their own space to breathe (aka their own bank account), you're no longer guessing, stressing, or backtracking. We’re talking clarity, control, and total peace of mind, besties.

Shana and Vanessa share real-life stories from clients whose lives were changed just by making this one move—including being able to travel without worrying if the lights would be on when they got back. Yes, it’s that real.

We’re showing you:

1. Why running everything through one account is sabotaging your budget

2. What counts as a “bill” (spoiler: it’s not groceries)

3. How separating your bills removes the guesswork

4. Why this is the first step toward getting a paycheck ahead

✨ Get ready to take a breath, let your budget work for you, and stop letting your money keep you up at night. This one’s a game changer.

Mentioned in this episode:

Want to go deeper? Head to budgetbesties.com/bills to grab the video series and learn how to build your buffer, automate your bills (yes—even if you're scared), and stop living paycheck to paycheck for good.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Watch this episode here!

Budget besties... it’s time. 🎃
We’re sipping pumpkin spice, skeletons are popping up in the neighborhood, and Hobby Lobby has Christmas aisles in full swing—which can only mean one thing: it's time to plan your October budget!

In this episode, Shana and Vanessa walk you through the exact steps they use with their coaching clients to get ready for the new month, including:

✨ How to separate your spending accounts so you can swipe with confidence
✨ What “month-specific” spending really means (hello Halloween candy, costumes, dad’s birthday, and skate camp 👀)
✨ The power of savings buckets—yes, even for Homecoming dresses and horse expenses
✨ Why automating your transfers is the key to budget peace (and no more tracking every dollar)
✨ What it looks like to have money left over after budgeting—yes, it’s possible!

Whether you're just getting started or you're deep in your debt payoff journey, we’ve got the real-life examples and step-by-step process to help you stop guessing and start planning with clarity.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today’s episode is packed with real life, real clients, and real money lessons from our coaching sessions — and trust us, if they’re going through it, you probably are too. From college kids nearly losing scholarships to business owners buried in tools they don’t need, we’re breaking it all down.

This is the episode where you get to learn through someone else’s mistakes (hallelujah), feel less alone, and walk away with quick wins you can apply to your own budget — right now.

✨ Today’s Lessons From the Coaching Couch💸 1. Be a Good Steward of Your Money

One of our sweet clients had to have a Come to Jesus moment with her son after he almost lost his scholarship. Her message?

“If someone gives you money — you have a responsibility to use it well.”

Whether it’s a scholarship, a paycheck, or a random blessing — the same is true for all of us. Your job, your income, your opportunities are a gift. And budgeting is how you honor it. Period.

➡️ When you know what’s coming in and where it’s going, you can be intentional and wise — and avoid losing what you worked so hard to get.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, annoyed, or just plain lost trying to budget — you are NOT alone. We’ve seen it all: the scribbled notebook budgets, 111-line spreadsheets with scary color-coding, and "budgets" that are really just transaction trackers in disguise. No wonder budgeting feels like a chore (or a punishment) for so many of us.

But good news — it doesn’t have to be that way. 🙌

In this episode, we’re diving into:

💥 The 5 Reasons Most Budgets Fail:

1. They're way too complicated

2. They focus on the past, not the plan

3. They're built paycheck-to-paycheck instead of month-by-month

4. They don’t give you real clarity

5. And honestly? They’re just ugly (sorry, neon Google Sheets)

We show you real-life examples (thanks, clients — we love you) of bad budgets and break down exactly why they didn’t work — even though our clients were genuinely trying.

🎉 Then we flip the script and show you…

This is the same system we use with every single client, whether they’re just getting started or juggling six-figure incomes. It’s clear, one-page, and dare we say… pretty?

Here’s what it includes:

1. Income — Your favorite number! We start here so we know what we're working with.

2. Debt — The not-so-fun column, but necessary for getting that snowball rolling.

3. Bills — Anything with a due date goes here. Think rent, subscriptions, utilities.

4. Spending — All the day-to-day stuff: groceries, gas, Starbucks, kids’ activities, etc.

5. Savings — The game-changer. This is how you break the debt cycle and plan ahead.

🌟 This budget isn’t just numbers on a page — it’s a system. It tells you what to do, how much you have left, and makes sure every dollar has a job.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today’s episode is one of those stop what you’re doing and listen moments. 🛑💸

We're sitting down with our real-life friends—and now clients—Aaron and Sarah, who pulled back the curtain on how they went from financial frustration and separate bank accounts… to saving more than ever, paying off debt, and dreaming big (like, Montana ranch big).

If you’ve ever:

• Felt guilty about spending money on things just for you

• Kept finances separate in your marriage (and it’s not working)

• Struggled to talk about money without spiraling into an argument

• Wondered where the heck your money is going even with good income

…this episode is for you, budget bestie. 🧡

We’re walking through their journey step-by-step, from the moment they realized retirement felt impossible to building a budget system that gave them peace, clarity, and permission to spend (yes, even on horses and hunting trips 🐴🦌).

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Today, we’re bringing you behind the scenes of our private coaching sessions—because if our clients are facing these struggles, chances are you are too. 💯

From booming photography side hustles to once-a-month paycheck chaos, we’re unpacking the real-life budgeting problems that hit hard—and how to solve them on purpose.

In this episode, we dive into:

• 📷 What to do when your side hustle brings in big money—but not every month

• 🗓️ How to manage irregular income like a pro (especially when you get paid once a month)

• 🧾 Why calling your credit card companies can buy you breathing room

• 💸 Building a paycheck buffer so your bills don’t rule your life

• 💥 The hard convos that actually set you free financially

These are the exact money moves we make with clients every day—and you’ll walk away with some powerful mindset shifts and practical next steps to apply to your own budget.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click &...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget besties, this one’s the heart of the whole system. If your future feels boring, budgeting will always feel like busywork. Step 1 of our method is Dream Again—building a vision that actually excites you so you want to budget, stick with it, and change habits with purpose.

We share a powerful early-client story (hi tears 🥲) where “What are your goals?” stopped them in their tracks—and how getting crystal clear on a shared vision made everything else click. Then we show you how to map goals across Now, 1 Year, 5 Years, and your “X-Year” horizon (not age 65—your milestone). When you know where you’re going, the rest of the method stops feeling restrictive and starts feeling…fun.

What You’ll Learn

• Why most people quit budgeting (spoiler: no exciting future to aim at)

• How a clear “why” makes budgeting simple—and even enjoyable

• The 4-part vision map: Now, 1 Year, 5 Years, X-Years

• How life stages (kids’ ages, career transitions, moves) shape your targets

• Partnering up: how to dream together so you’re rowing in the same direction

Check out our Dream Again Worksheet

Check out Luke & Tina's Episode #79

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget besties, today we sat down with Addie—teacher, mom, and three months credit-card free (!!)—to untangle a super common headache: paychecks that land on odd dates and the “why does this still feel tight?” spiral. We walked through how to use a paycheck-ahead system when income hits on the 6th/21st (hers) and 11th/26th (his), how to fund spending on a predictable rhythm, and how to stop robbing Peter to pay Paul when kid expenses pop up (hello, cross-country, art club, school pics). We also dug into savings buckets done right, quick-transfer options for high-yield savings, and gentle ways to build a buffer so everything runs automagically.

This is a calm, practical reset if your dates are weird, your brain’s tired, and you want your budget to finally feel… easy.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System! 

Hey budget besties!
We’re replaying one of our favorite conversations with our girl Judy Weber from the Bold Business. Bold Faith podcast—and y’all, it’s a GOOD one. This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever said:

• “I make good money, but I have nothing to show for it.”

• “I’m tired of living paycheck to paycheck.”

• “I have big dreams, but I’m drowning in business and personal expenses.”

We got you. 💛

• Why traditional budgeting (tracking every penny, ugh) is outdated—and what we do instead

• How your budget can give you freedom (not restrict you!)

• Separating business + personal money the simple way

• How many bank accounts you actually need (spoiler: more than one)

• Automating your budget so your bills pay themselves

• Planning for irregular income like a pro

• Our fave: Using your bank like a personal assistant

• Why growing at the speed of cash matters

• How we went from $40 profitable (LOL, but also proud) to running a multi six-figure biz using this exact system

This is real talk from two besties who’ve been in the financial trenches—and came out the other side with a system that WORKS.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget Besties, it’s finally happening! We’re kicking off a brand new series where we take you step-by-step through The Budget Besties Method—our signature system that helps you go from “Where do I even start?” to “Ohhhh, I got this!”

This week, we're giving you the big picture—all 8 steps—so you know exactly what’s coming over the next several Mondays. Whether you're brand new to budgeting or you've bought our system and are wondering “What do I do next?”... this is for you.

This method is everything we teach our clients during coaching, and it's what we wish we had when we were starting out. It’s not about restriction—it’s about clarity, confidence, and building a financial system that runs on autopilot.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget Besties, you are not ready for the glow-up Lori pulled off in just ONE month. ✨

In this episode, we chat with Lori — a busy wife, mom, and total rockstar — who used to spend every Friday night buried in a notebook trying to figure out how to pay bills. Sound familiar? 😅

Then she found our podcast (her first ever!) and decided it was time for a better way.

Now? She’s:

1. Set up multiple accounts: bills, spending, gas & groceries, vacation, buffer, and more

2. Embracing autopay (even though it used to terrify her)

3. Tracking her bills like a pro — without touching a calculator

4. Paying off six debts in month one (!!), freeing up $330/month

5. Starting savings buckets and making space for fun (hello, vacation fund)

6. Teaching her 17-year-old son how to do it differently — and better

💬 “I used to do a huge math problem every week. Now I open my tracker, check off what cleared, and move on with my life.”

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

This week, we're bringing you all the warm fuzzies and practical wins – especially for the husbands out there! From Xbox subscriptions to DIY car repairs, we’re talking about how couples can honor each other while staying on budget (and keeping the peace ✌️).

We dive into:

💸 The Power of Separate Spending Accounts

One of our sweet coaching clients found total clarity when she and her husband created individual spending accounts. Now, he can snag all the Fortnite skins his heart desires – without messing up the grocery budget. Win-win!

📺 Bills vs. Spending: Let's Clear It Up

Not sure what goes where? We’re breaking down our favorite way to define expenses:

1. Bills = anything with a due date

2. Spending = everything else

   Yup, even that Netflix binge or gaming splurge can be totally budget-friendly when it’s in the right place.

🛠️ The $30K Question: New Car or New Transmission?

Another couple came in clutch with some smart decision-making. Instead of jumping into a $30,000 car loan, they fixed their current ride themselves (shoutout to handy husbands!). And because they’d already been saving for car maintenance? The money was already there. 💥

Plus, we chat about:

🚗 Leasing cars – is it really worth it?

🧠 Mindset shifts around spending

🧘‍♀️ Giving yourself time and space to breathe before making big decisions

So whether you’re team “Fix-It-Yourself” or “Let’s Just Buy a New One,” there’s something here for all of us trying to live our best financial lives – together.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

How nice would it be to walk into your hair appointment, facial, or nail salon already knowing the money is sitting in your account, ready to go—tip included? Yes, please.

In this episode, we’re talking all things glam-up budgeting—from facials and eyebrows to lashes, massages, and all the self-care that helps you feel like you. 💅🏽

Shana and Vanessa are showing you exactly how to build out your glam-up fund the smart way—using our strategic (and super simple) system. You'll learn how to:

1. Track how often you get each service (nails, hair, lashes—you name it)

2. Calculate your annual glam-up costs

3. Divide it up monthly so you never get caught off guard

4. Set up an auto-transfer to a separate savings account (that you don’t “accidentally” use for Target runs)

5. Swipe with confidence knowing your glow-up fund is ready

This is all about building freedom into your budget—not restriction. When your glam-up is already paid for, there’s zero guilt and zero stress, just vibes and fresh brows.

Because feeling good is part of financial wellness too. And yes—you deserve it.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy. 

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Hey Budget Besties!

Today we’re bringing you behind the scenes of a real coaching call with our friend Rebecca. She’s already crushing it — no car payment, no mortgage, and just a small amount of credit card debt left. But like so many of us, she keeps reaching for her card at places like Costco or on PayPal “specials,” even though she wants to pay cash.

Together we unpack why this happens and how she can make her budget work with her instead of against her. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance paying off debt while also funding your savings buckets, this convo is going to hit home.

In this episode, we walk Rebecca through:

1. How a 90-day spending audit helped her finally get gas money under control

2. Why Costco can sabotage even the best budgets (and how to make it work on purpose)

3. The trick to managing monthly income so you’re not stretched thin at the end of the month

4. How to fund savings buckets without sacrificing debt payoff

5. The power of rolling out automation in baby steps — one category at a time

6. Why sometimes the solution is as simple as breaking up with your credit card (at least for now!)

Rebecca left this call with a clear plan to stop using credit cards, pay off her small balance once and for all, and lean on the systems she’s already built — her bills account, her gas vault, and her savings buckets. She’s literally this close to being totally credit-card free.

✨ Bestie Takeaways:

1. A 90-day audit shows you the truth about your spending.

2. Separate accounts keep you honest and stop you from overspending.

3. You can’t fund every bucket and pay off debt at the same time — pick what matters most right now.

4. Automation works best when you roll it out little by little.

5. Debt freedom isn’t about luck — it’s about the systems you create.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Hey Budget Besties!

We’re dusting off one of our favorite convos and bringing it back for you. This replay with our friend Skyler from the Money Talk Podcast is all about the “B word” (nope, not that one — budgets!) and how automation can turn your money from stressful to effortless.

We dive deep into what financial automation actually is, why you don’t need a zillion apps to make it work, and how to set up a simple bank account system that feels like your personal assistant. From creating separate “spending,” “bills,” and “savings” accounts, to building a month-ahead buffer, to getting those savings buckets growing without lifting a finger — we cover all the steps to put your money on autopilot.

You’ll hear:

1. Why direct deposit should flow into your Bills Account first (and not your debit card!)

2. How to make automation feel safe when you’re not used to trusting your bank account

3. The power of multiple accounts for groceries, gas, fun money, and personal spending

4. Why having a month’s income in reserve is like unlocking Level One of financial independence

5. The surprising marriage-saving benefits of separate personal spending accounts

6. How naming your savings buckets (hello, “Hawaii Trip”!) can keep you from dipping into them

We even tackle the great credit card debate — why we’re not fans of using them for everyday spending, and how to transition away from relying on them without feeling deprived.

By the end, you’ll see why we believe automation is the secret weapon for gaining confidence, clarity, and control over your money — without living in your spreadsheet.

Check Out Skyler's Money Talk Podcast

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help...

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Watch This Episode & See The Budget System In Action!

Hey Budget Besties!

We’re dusting off one of our favorite convos and bringing it back for you. This replay with our friend Skyler from the Money Talk Podcast is all about the “B word” (nope, not that one — budgets!) and how automation can turn your money from stressful to effortless.

We dive deep into what financial automation actually is, why you don’t need a zillion apps to make it work, and how to set up a simple bank account system that feels like your personal assistant. From creating separate “spending,” “bills,” and “savings” accounts, to building a month-ahead buffer, to getting those savings buckets growing without lifting a finger — we cover all the steps to put your money on autopilot.

You’ll hear:

1. Why direct deposit should flow into your Bills Account first (and not your debit card!)

2. How to make automation feel safe when you’re not used to trusting your bank account

3. The power of multiple accounts for groceries, gas, fun money, and personal spending

4. Why having a month’s income in reserve is like unlocking Level One of financial independence

5. The surprising marriage-saving benefits of separate personal spending accounts

6. How naming your savings buckets (hello, “Hawaii Trip”!) can keep you from dipping into them

We even tackle the great credit card debate — why we’re not fans of using them for everyday spending, and how to transition away from relying on them without feeling deprived.

By the end, you’ll see why we believe automation is the secret weapon for gaining confidence, clarity, and control over your money — without living in your spreadsheet.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget besties, today’s episode is such a gem. We’re sitting down with our clients (and friends) Eric and Carol — a couple who came into coaching feeling unsure, a little overwhelmed, and definitely not sold on the whole budgeting thing.

Fast forward to now? They’ve got multiple accounts working for them, a business budget that finally makes sense, and they’re making mindful money moves without the stress. 👏

We talk about what it was like navigating finances as empty nesters, the reality of running a business while trying to keep personal money straight, and what happens when you actually see how much life costs. (Spoiler: it’s eye-opening in the best way.)

Also, Carol has some wise words about learning how to say, “It’s not in the budget this week,” without guilt — and we are 100% here for that kind of power.

In this episode:

• Why tracking everything wasn’t working — and what finally did

• How Eric went from budget-skeptic to spreadsheet king 💻

• Letting go of shame around money and stepping into control

• What it looks like to separate business and personal money (for real this time)

• Setting up multiple bank accounts without losing your mind — or your debit card

• The “tough love” moment that changed everything

• Teaching their grown kids about money (even the spicy one)

• How budgeting helped them stop relying on debt and start trusting their bank account

This is one of those conversations that reminds us it’s never too late to shift your money mindset. Budgeting isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present, proactive, and peaceful when it comes to your money.

Whether you’re a business owner, a parent, or someone who’s always felt like the numbers just don’t add up — this one’s for you. ❤️

— Shana & Vanessa

🛠️ Mentioned in this episode:

🎲 Cashflow Board GameThe game Eric and Carol’s son bought that teaches the concept of financial independence in a super hands-on, realistic way. It’s like Monopoly — but make it real life.👉 Link to Cashflow on Amazon

🎥 Eric’s Video Production BusinessEric runs a video production company and works with clients to create beautiful, impactful content. If you're looking for a pro with decades of experience behind the camera, check him out!👉 Link to Eric’s business website

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎

Snag Our Simplified Budget System!

Budget besties — let’s talk about a sneaky cycle that keeps so many of us stressed: making quick money decisions that feel productive (like paying off a card) but actually keep us stuck.

In this episode, we unpack two real client stories:

1. A teacher who used her savings for summer expenses to pay off a small debt… only to be broke in August (and back in debt)

2. A client who saw cash in her account and immediately threw it at a credit card… leaving herself short for a wedding and pulling from her 401k

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. We get real about:

1. Why quick fixes and “wins” often sabotage long-term stability

2. How to break the stress cycle of reactionary money decisions

3. Why using credit cards is more about avoiding money management than “playing the points game”

4. The freedom of becoming your own bank (hint: no more hoping a payment goes through!)

5. How a system — not emotions — is the key to lasting progress

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a loop of paying off debt only to rack it back up, this conversation will help you see why — and give you a better way forward.

Connect With Us: 

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook 

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate 

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching 

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall 

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