This week, our co-hosts sit down with Adrienne Taylor—entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of Tailored WealthSaver®—to explore how building wealth is about more than just the numbers. Adrienne shares her journey from pharmacy to finance, her passion for helping millennials achieve financial freedom, and the lessons she learned expanding her business through a strategic partnership.

Together, we reflect on the real challenges entrepreneurs face behind the scenes, including navigating personal transitions like divorce, and why giving yourself grace is essential to long-term success. Adrienne reminds us that financial wellness and business growth go hand-in-hand—and that with the right support, what once felt unimaginable can become reality.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, working toward financial stability, or redefining what success looks like in your own life, this episode offers powerful insights on resilience, reinvention, and the beauty of betting on yourself.

Show Notes:

02:27 From pharmacy to finance: Adrienne's personal journey

07:12 The millennial personal finance secret strategy

09:42 How business expansion can be your biggest gain rather than loss

11:54 The blessings & burdens of being an entrepreneur 

19:40 What's to come for Tailored Wealth Saver

Show Note Links:

Connect with Adrienne on LinkedIn!

Connect with Adrienne on Instagram!

Read more here!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

This week our co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Joanne Danganan—founder of Financial Healing and California Market Manager for Financial Beginnings—to explore how healing our relationship with money begins with finding safe spaces. Joanne shares her personal story as the daughter of Filipino immigrants, her journey into financial education, and why access to this knowledge is a justice issue.

Together, we unpack the cultural shame often tied to money, and the courage it takes to simply start the conversation. From choosing the right people to confide in, to redefining what financial well-being looks like, Joanne reminds us that vulnerability is a strength—and that financial education must be rooted in empathy and inclusion.

Whether you're navigating your own financial healing or creating spaces for others to do the same, this episode is a heartfelt reminder: you deserve to talk about money without fear, shame, or judgment.

Show Notes:

02:35 Joanne's journey into the personal finance field 

07:03 Financial education resources for teachers 

08:26 The "why" behind Financial Healing 

11:24 How to ease financial anxiety

15:06 The Five Money Languages 

21:15 Why fear is the secret weapon to financial freedom

23:47 How to start about money with no shame

25:20 Joanne's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Instagram: @financialhealing 

Connect with Financial Healing on Linkedin!

Learn more about Financial Healing with Joanne!

Learn more about Financial Beginnings!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

After years of navigating the fast-paced world of actuarial consulting in New York City, Jon Akerman found himself burnt out and unsure of his next step. Instead of staying stuck, Jon embraced uncertainty — relocating to a new state, joining the Florida Army National Guard, and discovering his passion for financial coaching. Now, as a coach with MyBudgetCoach, Jon empowers people to break free from living paycheck to paycheck and take control of their financial futures. In this episode, Jon shares his powerful journey of transformation, his insights on making meaningful financial decisions, and his mission to guide underserved communities toward financial stability. Plus, he reveals why listening — really listening — can be a game-changer in both life and money.

Show Notes: 

02:33 Jon's financial counseling and coaching journey

06:49 What led Jon to the AFC

11:36 Bad money management does not discriminate

13:58 How to make meaningful change in your financial decisions 

16:52 Jon's "why" behind joining MyBudgetCoach

19:50 Jon's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Meet Your Budget Coach: Jon Akerman 

Explore Jon's Website!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Achieving financial independence doesn’t require a six-figure salary — just ask Jackie Koski. In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Jackie Koski, an Accredited Financial Counselor and Certified Financial Planner who achieved financial independence in her 40s — all while earning less than six figures. Jackie shares her inspiring journey of overcoming poverty, divorce, and single motherhood to reach F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence, Retire Early). She breaks down her proven formula for building wealth, the importance of mindset in financial success, and how passing down financial wisdom can create a lasting legacy. Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with practical strategies for achieving financial freedom on your own terms.

Show Notes:

02:18 How Jackie Achieved Financial Independence on Less Than Six Figures

08:37 The Heart Behind "Money Letters to My Daughter"

11:10 Jackie's Proven Blueprint for Achieving F.I.R.E.

14:16 Why Starting Late Could Be Your Greatest Advantage

19:07 Embracing Your Strengths to Unlock Financial Success

23:38 The Unexpected Power of the $2 Bill

28:35 Jackie's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Jackie on LinkedIn

Connect with Jackie on IG

Secure your copy of  “Money Letters 2 my Daughter" 

Secure your copy of “F.I.R.E. for Dummies” 

Learn more about Jackie and what she’s up to here.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with financial coach, author, and educator Ericka Young, AFC, who shares her personal journey of paying off $90,000 in debt and building a career helping families achieve financial freedom.

Ericka discusses the importance of open and honest money conversations, both in relationships and in financial institutions, explaining how trust plays a crucial role in financial success. She also dives into practical strategies for raising financially responsible kids, emphasizing why giving teens ownership over major purchases—like their first car—can set them up for a lifetime of smart money habits.

From workplace financial wellness programs to training future financial coaches, Ericka’s expertise spans across individuals, families, and businesses. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on building trust, taking ownership, and rewriting your financial story!

Show Notes:

02:47 Why seasons of pause & intentionality are vital when surviving the teen years 

07:22 Ericka's journey to the credit union world 

14:26 Your tips & tricks in working with credit unions

16:48 The powerful impact financial wellness programs have in workplace culture

24:59 How to have money chats with your partner

31:22 Ericka's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Check out Ericka's wesbite! 

Connect with Ericka on Linkedin! 

Connect with Ericka on Instagram! 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

What does it mean to build true wealth?

 In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with financial planner Justin Chastain, AFC®️ to explore the connection between self-worth and financial success, the emotional impact of money, and the power of authenticity in both personal and professional growth.

Justin shares his personal experiences with grief and how it has shaped his financial philosophy, explaining why wealth is about more than just numbers—it’s about how money influences your life and the lives of those you care about. He also breaks down why patience is essential in building financial security and how leaning into your uniqueness can set you apart in any industry.

Whether you're a business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone looking to improve your financial mindset, this episode is filled with powerful insights on achieving financial freedom and peace of mind. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on redefining wealth, investing in yourself, and staying true to who you are.

Show Notes:

01:24 Justin's journey into the financial planning space

04:38 The AFC is they key to lifelong learning

07:33 How creating buckets of value influence our financial decisions

14:21 Why leaning into your uniqueness is your superpower

 22:22 The secret behind building wealth for a business 

27:41 What to look for in mentors & coaches

32:24 Justin's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Justin on Linkedin!

Connect with Justin on Instagram!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by Jessica Moorhouse, a leading financial educator, podcast host, and founder of MoorMoney Media Inc. Jessica’s passion for financial literacy started early—she worked her way through university and mastered frugality. But after stepping into the professional world, she realized that budgeting alone wasn’t enough to achieve the life she dreamed of. Determined to learn more, she became an expert in financial planning and building wealth, eventually leaving her marketing career to launch her own financial education company.

Join us as we discuss Jessica’s journey from frugal beginnings to financial empowerment, the importance of recognizing that you are more than money, and practical steps to help you build a life of purpose and abundance. Jessica also shares highlights from her newly released book and offers powerful insights on how to shift your mindset around money and success.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will encourage you to embrace your full potential—beyond your bank balance.

Show Notes:

02:06 – Jessica’s “Why” for Everything But Money: The Hidden Barriers Between You and Financial Freedom
04:33 – How Jessica Uncovered Her Own Money Story (and How You Can Too!)
15:08 – Jessica’s Journey to the AFCPE Community
18:17 – Why Getting to the Root of Your Money Story is Your Biggest Strength
20:59 – Jessica’s Two Cents 

Show Note Links: 

IG @jessicaimoorhouse 

YouTube @jessicamoorhouse 

LinkedIn @jessicamoorhouse 

https://jessicamoorhouse.com/book

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In the Season 6 premiere of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by 2025 Board President and our new co-host Dr. Brandy Baxter, AFC®️, the powerhouse behind Living Abundantly and Envision 30. As an Accredited Financial Counselor®️, financial coach, and strategic leader, Brandy helps individuals and organizations think from the future to achieve financial success. With a wealth of experience—including her service in the U.S. Air Force, leadership in financial education, and dedication to community building—Brandy brings a unique perspective on how forgiveness plays a crucial role in financial well-being.

Join us as we discuss the power of community, the importance of elevating diverse voices in financial coaching, and how simple steps like storytelling can make planning for the future less intimidating. Brandy’s insights will leave you inspired to take action, forgive financial mistakes, and embrace abundance.

Tune in and take your seat at the table—because we’re all more powerful when we come together.

Show Notes:

2:00 Introducing our new co-host...Dr. Brandy Baxter

2:12 What led Brandy to AFCPE

09:03 Brandy's hope for her presidency

11:43 How serving on the AFCPE Board of Directors has impacted Brandy's journey

15:59 Why the AFC matters

20:02 Looking ahead for the future of Real Money, Real Experts

22:33 Brandy's 2 cents

Show Note Links: 

Connect with Brandy on Linkedin!

Connect with Brandy on Instagram at  @brandys2cents4u

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this special season finale, Rachael and Mary bring you voices of #ExperienceAFCPE2024 attendees directly from the symposium floor. Attendees share their experiences, key takeaways, and advice for financial educators and those entering the field. This compilation of mini-interviews offers unique insights into the world of financial education and the power of shared learning.

This episode is also Mary’s final episode as podcast co-host. After 5 years, Mary is passing the baton to a new co-host – to be announced in the new year. Mary and Rachael reminisce about the good times, the laughter, and look forward to a new chapter in 2025.

Show Notes:
00:02 Welcome to the Season 5 finale of Real Money, Real Experts 
12:32 Switching it up for this year's Symposium Recap 
14:43 Voices of Symposium ft. the AFCPE Community
33:15 Mary's farewell 
36:53 See you in February with Season 6!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this powerful episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson sit down with Dr. Michael G. Thomas Jr., a financial empathy expert and lecturer at the University of Georgia, who is changing the way we think about money and wealth. As an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®), Dr. Thomas’s work emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-compassion, and active listening in financial counseling and planning. We explore his unique philosophy that the journey to financial health is deeply relational—not just about personal gain but about shouldering each other’s burdens and celebrating each other's successes.

Dr. Thomas shares insights from his book, Black Financial Culture: Building Wealth from the Inside Out, and we dive into the impact of brain function on financial behavior and the essential role of data visualization in helping individuals see their financial paths more clearly. Dr. Thomas’s message is clear: we don’t all start or end at the same place, and it's about recognizing our shared struggles and learning how to thrive collectively.

Show Notes:
02:41 A Glimpse Into Michael's Keynote Speech 
07:21 It's Not You, It's the System 
12:22 Digging into Michael's book "Black Financial Culture"
17:58 Unpacking cultural norms
22:18 The importance of genuine connection 
27:13 Why the AFCPE Symposium is a constant 
29:58 Michael's 2 Cents 

Show Note Links:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/moneyandwellness/
Twitter @Modomsolutions
Instagram @modomsolutions
Tik Tok @modomsolutions

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we tackle the evolving world of financial fraud and how we can break the cycle of shame that often keeps victims silent. In this exclusive sneak peek of their keynote session at this year’s symposium, Lori Schock, Director of the SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, and Robert Mascio, Director of Investor Education Outreach at FINRA, share compelling stories of today’s most sophisticated scams such as AI-driven impersonation schemes. Lori and Robert explain how fraudsters exploit trust and emotion, and why it's crucial to have open conversations about these tactics. By discussing fraud openly, we can empower victims, protect ourselves, and make more informed decisions. 

Don’t miss this insightful preview into the strategies you can use to safeguard against these evolving threats. 

Show Notes:
02:50 What is the SEC? 
04:08 What is FINRA? 
05:56 Lori's career path to the SEC
08:59 Robert's career path to FINRA
11:30 How the financial fraud landscape has changed 
12:30 The rise of technology has impacted the financial fraud landscape 
16:26 How to spot an impersonation scam
18:11 Resources to protect yourself against financial scams
20:02 Why conversations are vital to break the guilt & shame victims experience
22:36 Lori's 2 cents
24:51 Robert's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
SEC Website
Investor.gov 
FINRA's BrokerCheck
FINRA’s Website
Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website
Help for Seniors Website
Help for Seniors phoneline: 844-574-3577
Investor.gov phoneline: 1-800-732-0330
Robert Mascio's Linkedin

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this thought-provoking episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael and Mary are joined by Wendy De La Rosa, Assistant Professor at the Wharton School and behavioral finance expert, to dive deep into the psychology behind our financial decisions. 

Wendy shares how behavioral science can reshape the way we approach saving, spending, and budgeting, offering practical strategies to build healthier money habits and eliminate financial shame. We’ll also explore why money remains a taboo topic, the role of AI in personal finance, and how to create an environment that supports financial well-being. 

Whether you’re looking to get a handle on your budget, gain confidence in your financial decisions, or simply understand why we think the way we do about money, this episode is packed with insights to help you take control of your financial future.

Show Notes:
04:18 Why we don't talk money (& why we should)
05:36 Financial Shame no more
08:06 Practical tips to talk about money with your loved ones
10:02 A sneak peek into Wendy's next project
13:00 Why a spreadsheet is not the answer for financial wellbeing 
17:29 How to bring women into the financial conversation
20:31 How AI will influence personal finances
22:45 Wendy's top resources for financial conversations
23:53 Wendy's 2 cents

Show Note Links:  
Wendy's Linkedin
Wendy's X/Twitter 
Your Money, Your Mind Ted Talk
Wendy's Ted Talk

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this insightful episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Syble Solomon, the visionary behind Money Habitudes and a trailblazer in the world of financial behavior. Syble shares her unique journey, from her early career as a Peace Corps volunteer to becoming a Financial Behavior Specialist, transforming how people understand their relationship with money. We explore her "deck of cards" approach to life, the pivotal moments that shaped her work, and how AFCPE® has played a crucial role in her success.

 Get a sneak peek into AFCPE 2024, learn about Syble’s breakthrough moments with debt, and hear her powerful message about being bold in your money habits. This episode is packed with wisdom, motivation, and practical advice for meeting people where they are and empowering them to move forward.

Show Notes:
02:53 Who is Syble Solomon?
06:39 The beginning of Money Habitudes
09:55 Syble's debt breakthrough
11:34 Dealing with the deck of cards life throws at you
16:45 AFCPE to the rescue!
17:28 How AFCPE impacted Money Habitudes
20:10 Safe and Sound: A sneak peek at AFCPE2024!
28:40 How to be bold in your money habits
33:44 Syble's 2 cents

Show Note Links: 
https://www.moneyhabitudes.com/
https://shop.moneyhabitudes.com/cards/
https://www.afcpe.org/symposium/
https://www.freefrom.org/ 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this keynote episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re diving into the power of movement—whether it’s moving beyond cultural gaps, moving through discomfort, or moving towards impactful change. 

Join us as we kick off the Symposium Keynote series with two incredible guests, David Scherer and Joe Davis, who are experts in bridging the diversity gap through thoughtful, grace-based conversations. David and Joe share their insights on how we can just move beyond guilt, blame, and shame, creating brave spaces where we can challenge ourselves to embrace discomfort and grow.

David Scherer, an educator, speaker, and performer, brings over 20 years of experience in intercultural development and anti-racism work across the globe. Joe Davis, an award-winning artist and educator, uses poetry, music, and dance to reshape culture and connect communities. Together, they share their unique approaches to facilitating impactful conversations around race, money, and culture.

Tune in to learn how we can start building bridges across cultural differences and move towards a more inclusive and empathetic world. It all starts with the courage to just move.

Show Notes:
03:07 Your "JustMove" crash course
05:52 Getting to know David
08:14 Getting to know Joe
11:12 What is money culture & implicit bias?
12:41 How to foster a culture of money curiosity
14:13 The power of conversation & accountability in financial counseling
18:04 Practice makes progress
21:24 Action steps to breaking free from discomfort & creating brave spaces
27:59 David's & Joe's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
@justmoveculture, @joedavispoetry, and @agapedave1
For more information on their work, go to www.justmoveculture.com 
Joedavispoetry.com: https://www.joedavispoetry.com/
Joe’s books: https://www.joedavispoetry.com/books 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Cara Macksoud, the dynamic CEO of Money Habitudes, who shares her remarkable journey from a 15-year career on Wall Street to becoming a leading voice in the behavioral finance space. Cara’s insights reveal how money is more than just numbers—it's a tool with its own hopes and dreams. We explore her unique perspective that “personal finance is anything but personal,” and learn why having small, meaningful conversations about money can lead to big changes in our financial lives. Whether you're looking to unlock the 'money genie' within or understand how every dollar can be an arrow in your financial quiver, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

Show Notes:

02:27 The journey of becoming the CEO of Money Habitudes
09:32 Why we are more similar than different 
10:54 The impact of our financial behaviors
14:43 How Money Habitudes helps you create your own story 
24:16 Why loud budgeting may not be the answer
27:28 The power of intentionality 
31:00 How to foster positive financial habits
32:53 Cara's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caramacksoud/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/money-habitudes 

Cara@moneyhabitudes.com  

https://www.moneyhabitudes.com/ 

https://shop.moneyhabitudes.com/ 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Dr. Tiffany Murray, AFC®️ the Managing Director of the Society for Financial Education and Professional Development, Inc. (SFEPD). Tiffany shares her journey from leading Red to Black®️ Peer Financial Coaching at Texas Tech University to becoming a driving force behind SFEPD’s financial literacy programs. We explore how her core purpose and mission align with empowering the next generation to make informed money decisions. Tiffany discusses the innovative use of Money Management Essentials (MME) to train student ambassadors, offering insights into bridging the gap between old and new financial knowledge.
 
Tune in to learn how Tiffany is paving the way for financial education that transcends generations and empowers youth to take control of their financial futures.

Show Notes:

02:12 Catching up with Tiffany!

07:01 The impact & power of student ambassadors 

16:03 Why the future of financial coaching is bright 

19:35 Insight into the AFCPE Archives Project

21:54 What led Tiffany to the AFC

24:33 Tiffany's go-to FinLit resources

25:36 Tiffany's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Tiffany's Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tiffany-murray-ph-d-afc®️-a975b325  

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

"Would you believe that all of those things are part of the AFC program? It's like a warm, fuzzy blanket that I wear at night."

Jessica Medina is not throwing away her shot.

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we welcome Jessica Medina, a dedicated Accredited Financial Counselor®️ who transitioned from a career in law to follow her true passion. Jessica's journey highlights the power of embracing life's unexpected paths and finding fulfillment in new dreams.

In this episode, Jessica shares her inspiring story of letting go of one dream to pursue another, and how she discovered her true calling in financial coaching. She discusses the importance of following the path life presents to you, even when the answers aren't clear at first, especially when starting a private practice. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on finding your path, embracing uncertainty, and the impact of personal passions on professional success.

Show Notes: 
2:00 The Hamiltune's are back!
03:37 Jessica's transition from law to pursuing her passion
06:34 The secret to starting your private practice
09:02 Unlocking the entrepreneur mindset
11:41 How collaboration & networking are your secret weapon 
15:43 The power behind stepping outside of your comfort zone 
18:31 Why you need to set boundaries 
21:18 What led Jessica to the AFC 
27:29 Handling life's transitions & saying yes 
30:17 Jessica's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
https://www.jessicamedinallc.com/studentloanseries 

Website: https://www.jessicamedinallc.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamedinallc 

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jessicamedinallc 

Instagram: @jessicamedinallc 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9_kStA0zw2

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we delve into the power of community and advocacy with Raven Newberry, AFC®. Raven Newberry is the managing director of policy and advocacy for the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), leading efforts to shape financial education policies on state and national levels. In this episode, we discuss how using your voice to advocate for change can create powerful ripples throughout your community. Join us as we explore the collective fingerprints of the AFCPE community in supporting the passing of crucial legislation and the impact we can make at the local and community level.

Show Notes: 
02:59 Raven's top horror movie pick for the summer
03:41 The perfect blend of geography & personal finance
05:12 Why public policy and advocacy matter
07:17 The catalyst of the financial education movement 
10:33 How to begin your advocacy journey
13:16 The power of community & longevity in your advocacy journey 
21:05 Raven's 2 cents

Show Notes Link:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/raven-newberry-5baa9774/
https://www.nefe.org/about/our-team/default.aspx
https://www.nefe.org/initiatives/ecosystem/default.aspx, https://www.nefe.org/impact/policy-and-advocacy/default.aspx, https://www.nefe.org/impact/policy-and-advocacy/policy-tracker.aspx
https://fined50.org/
https://www.ngpf.org/
https://www.jumpstart.org/
https://www.cee.org/ 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

This week, we welcome Jasmine Johnson, Accredited Financial Counselor®️, Entertainment Accountant, and Mental Health Advocate to Real Money, Real Experts. Jasmine has spent over a decade empowering individuals and families to transform their financial mindset and achieve Financial Independence. 

In this episode, Jasmine shares how growing up in poverty influenced her own money story, and how it's made a difference in the way she supports clients. She talks about how embracing life’s unexpected turns can lead you exactly where you need to be. Tune in for a compelling discussion on personal growth, financial empowerment, and the journey to self-discovery. 

Show Notes:
02:18 Jasmine's journey to the AFC
08:51 The beginning of Jasmine's money story
11:29 How emotions and finances intertwine
13:09 Uncovering your money story
17:47 What led Jasmine to opening her own business
20:33 The importance of being a life long learner
22:41 Jasmine's 2 cents

Show Notes Links:
https://www.square1accounting.com/yourresources
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman - https://a.co/d/fM1j5y4
Financial decisions 90% emotions
IG: jasmine_themoneycoach
YT: jasmine_themoneycoach
website: www.square1accounting.com
https://www.square1accounting.com/yourresources 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

This week, we welcome Kate Mielitz, PhD, AFC®️, CDP®️ , back to Real Money, Real Experts. Dr. Kate has 25 years of experience in financial services, including bankruptcy, fraud, financial counseling, and higher education, and she's dedicated to helping financial and human services professionals navigate cultural differences. 

On today's episode, we take a deep dive into the ways our background and lived experiences affect our relationship with money and gain strategies for working more effectively with vulnerable populations. Kate is a wealth of knowledge, and her energy and enthusiasm is contagious. Want to gain insights and resources to help you learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion and ensure you are truly meeting clients where they are? Tune into this episode!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Our first podcast episode to kick off with a love story!

Join Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Carlson as they sit down with Mike Lanway, CFP®, TSP expert, and self-proclaimed federal benefits "nerd." In this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we explore Mike's unique personal and professional journey and uncover the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. 

From ministry to personal finance, Mike has a heart for service and a passion for ensuring that federal employees understand what their benefits can do for them. He speaks about his journey as a financial planner, and how going through Money Management Essentials and the AFC certification has elevated his work with clients. 

Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating career paths and finding your true calling. Don't miss out on this episode packed with wisdom and inspiration!

Show Notes:
02:23 It's (Mike + Lanelle's) love story, just say yes
05:41 Mike's transition from ministry to financial services
08:37 The perfect marriage between passion and purpose
11:02 Lanway Companies' best move
12:52 How education is the most important tool in your toolbox
14:05 A behind the scenes look into being a business owner
18:31 Mike's journey to the AFC 
19:50 The value of the AFC
21:38 Mike's ecosystem in the federal government space 
24:06 Why your network is key in pursuing your passion 
27:24 How you are the expert in your own life
31:10 The power of prayer, trust, and peace of mind
32:56 Mike's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
The Big Book of AA; Humility by Andrew Murray; Surprised By Joy by CS Lewis; The Bible
All About CSRS, FERS and TSP, INC. – We are invested in your financial future. (allaboutfers.com)
Datapoints 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Christine Niccoli, Director in Community Impact at United Way Massachusetts Bay, and Nathalie Kallab Racimo, AFC, Senior Homeownership and Financial Services Advisor at NOAH. 

In this important episode, we discuss the importance of professionalizing the financial coaching space, recognizing the effects of trauma on financial wellbeing, leading from a place of empathy, and how you can be a catalyst for change in your own community. Christine and Nathalie share why they chose the AFC certification, the benefit the AFC has brought to them and their coaches, and some of the challenges they have navigated along the way. 

Learn how you can start your journey to the AFC today in the show notes below.

Show Notes:
02:58 What led Christine to the AFC
07:14 Nathalie's AFC journey 
09:54 The importance of financial empowerment
16:36 How the AFC' certification benefits communities 
20:40 The challenges faced on the path to the AFC
28:55 The power of financial accessibility to all
33:20 Nathalie's 2 cents
34:46 Christine's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Nathalie Kallab Racimo, AFC® | LinkedIn
Facebook
United Way Mass Bay (@UnitedWayMABay) / X (twitter.com)
United Way of Massachusetts Bay : Overview | LinkedIn
United Way Pilots First-In-The-Nation Financial Counselor Certification Training for Non-Profit Financial Coaches in Eastern Massachusetts - United Way of Massachusetts Bay (unitedwaymassbay.org)
NOAH
Engage@EMPath 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

"Tailor what you're doing to the audience that you're serving."-Gilbert Rogers.

On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Gilbert Rogers, AFC. Gilbert is the Director of Financial Wellbeing at UNC Chapel Hill. He is a national thought leader in the financial education space and has worked with the Army’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and participates as a financial counselor for the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP). 

In this enlightening conversation, Gilbert shares the importance of financial empowerment and his mission to change the trajectory of financial accessibility. Learn how you can be a servant leader, and a part of the change.

Show Notes:

02:26 Gilbert's journey into the financial education space 

04:00 Diving into his military background

05:29 What led Gilbert to the AFC

07:02 The impact of building foundational skills

08:24 How you really can have the best of both worlds

12:00 Finding the common thread amongst different communities 

14:26 Say yes to opportunities

16:42 A deeper look into his AMBA experience

19:17 How "Understanding Poverty" changed Gilbert's approach to financial counseling 

22:02 The secret to being a servant leader

23:39 Gilbert's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Gilbert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilbertrogers/ 

Higher Education Foundation Wellness Alliance: https://www.hefwa.org/ 

AFC Certification: https://www.afcpe.org/certification/ 

Hazel Joyce Wiley Career & Financial Literacy, Inc: https://hjwfinancial.org/ 

Dr. Ruby Payne - Understanding Poverty: https://a.co/d/37J8eOV 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Step into the spotlight with us as we commemorate the 100th episode of Real Money, Real Experts. In this special episode, we reminisce on the trials, triumphs, and unforgettable moments that have defined our podcast journey and look ahead to the future. 

We pull back the curtain to give you a look at our podcast journey, answer listener questions, and share some of our favorite moments along the way. But this episode isn't just about us—it's about you, the people who have been the heartbeat of Real Money, Real Experts since its inception. As we take a trip down memory lane, we'll shine a spotlight on the incredible stories and connections that have been forged along the way, sharing intimate behind-the-scenes anecdotes that reveal the human side of our podcast.

Show Notes:
02:28 BTS of Rachael's first episode
03:30 How Real Money, Real Experts came to fruition
05:41 Reflecting on the real stories of Real Money, Real Experts
09:02 Rachael & Mary's most memorable episodes 
16:27 What the AFCPE community is saying
20:43 Rachael & Mary's biggest gain in the journey so far
27:16 The future of AFCPE and what's to come in the future
33:03 Mary's 2 cents
34:52 The future of Real Money, Real Experts
36:58 Winner Reveal!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Join co-hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson as they welcome Lissa Prudencio, AFC®, Founder of Wealth for Women of Color. In our latest episode, Lissa shares the power of pivoting and reminds us that investing in ourselves can help change the world. You'll learn the secret to intentionality, how to avoid burnout, and the importance of putting yourself first in your financial wellness journey. Lissa is on a mission to empower women of color to break down financial barriers and build wealth.

Show Notes: 

02:58 Lissa's pivot from the corporate world to pursuing her passion

04:34 The story behind Wealth for Women of Color

06:44 How investing in your wealth will change the world 

09:36 The importance of bridging the wealth gap together as a community 

11:52 What led Lissa to the AFC

19:33 Lissa's life lessons from burnout 

25:38 The secret to intentionality 

30:48 The instrumental impact of gratitude and empathy

32:25 Lissa's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

https://www.youtube.com/wealthforwomenofcolor 

https://www.tiktok.com/@wealthforwomenofcolor 

https://instagram.com/wealthforwomenofcolor 

https://wealthforwomenofcolor.com/ 

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.