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

Here's what we cover:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode, we talk about:

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

This episode is for you if:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Links: 

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

In this episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We're tackling the tough questions:

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

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

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

Resources mentioned: 

• Brag Better by Meredith Fineman 
• Cinneah at Flynanced 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways:

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

Featured Kitchen Tech:

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Resources:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more, visit the rich & REGULAR blog here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Links: 

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

Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Links: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Links: 

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

Here are some key takeaways from this conversation:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Links: 

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

Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connect with Winston on LinkedIn 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Links: 

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

Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

This week, we have a special guest: JL Collins, the Godfather of the Financial Independence movement. He’s here to talk about his new book, ‘Pathfinders’, where he shares the stories of people who have achieved financial freedom in different ways. He shows us that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for success, and that we have to find our own path based on our values, goals and circumstances. He also tells us why we should embrace failure as a learning opportunity, how he measures quality of life,  why we should all craft a unique life that aligns to our values, the importance of putting family first, and how he stays optimistic in a world full of uncertainty. This is a conversation you don’t want to miss, because JL Collins is not only our mentor and friend, but also one of the wisest and most generous people we know.

Links: 

• Pathfinders: Extraordinary Stories of People Like You on the Quest for Financial Independence
• The Simple Path to Wealth mentioned on The Daily Show
• Factfulness by Hans Rosling
• JL Collins on the Cashing Out podcast
• Connect with JL on his website, Twitter, or get his books. 

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

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

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

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

This episode is about three stories that will change the way you invest, spend, and earn your money in 2024. They aren't predictions, but trends that are already happening and will likely continue. We start by reviewing what happened in 2023 and how it changed our perspective on money. Then we go into the first story, which is how the stock market was dominated by the Magnificent Seven tech stocks, thanks to their innovation and scale. The second story is about how fintech and buy now, pay later options have transformed the way we spend money. The third story is about how AI, artificial intelligence, will affect the future of work. 

Links:
Join our mailing list to get Brain Candy directly in your inbox 

Takeaways:
- The Magnificent Seven tech stocks drove the stock market performance in 2023, showing the power of AI and technology.
- Fintech and buy now, pay later options changed our consumer spending habits, leading to new ways of borrowing and lending that are more convenient and flexible, but also more risky and addictive
- AI will have a major impact on the future of work, with potential job disruptions and changes in hiring and evaluation processes.
- AI will impact the job market, affecting the types and hiring processes of jobs.
- Refining our online presence, such as having a complete LinkedIn profile, is important 
- Building AI literacy is essential for staying competitive in the job market.
- Using AI in your current jobs can increase our productivity and value.
- Using AI in job searches can automate application processes and save time.
- It is important to use AI with moderation and add a human touch to maintain our authenticity.

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

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

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

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

If paying down debt is one of your 2024 goals, this episode is for you. This week we're telling the story of the greatest gift we've ever given ourselves - debt freedom. We paid off $200,000 in five years, but that's not the whole story or the most interesting part. In this episode, we explore the emotional impact of debt, the different approaches to debt payoff, and the role of shame and regret in debt payoff.   We also discuss the need to anticipate setbacks in the debt payoff journey, and how building financial resilience provides a sense of comfort and confidence during challenging times. 

Links:

• Bankrate Survey about 2024 Financial Goals  

KeyTakeaways

• Debt can have a significant emotional impact, leading to feelings of shame, regret, and hopelessness. It is important to address these emotions and develop a positive mindset.
• Debt payoff advice is not one size fits all. The type of debt and personal circumstances can influence the best approach to debt payoff.
• Living below your means and enjoying it is key to sustainable debt payoff. It is important to find a balance between saving and enjoying life.
• Anticipation and milestones play a significant role in debt payoff. Celebrating small victories and setting clear goals can provide motivation and keep you on track. 
• Building financial resilience through debt payoff provides comfort and confidence during challenging times.
• Embrace a range of emotions throughout the debt payoff process, rather than solely focusing on happiness.
• Investment growth may not provide the same level of fulfillment as the debt payoff journey.
• Stay hopeful and motivated on the journey to financial freedom.

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

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

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

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

If you want help cutting back on drinking using neuroscience, try the Reframe App for free with a 1-month trial using Julien's referral link.

A few years ago, we decided to experiment with drinking less alcohol and participated in Dry January. It was supposed to be a one-time thing but it changed how we think about alcohol. We were surprised by how much money we saved and how much better we felt and realized we were part of a larger movement of people who were questioning their relationship with alcohol and finding new ways to enjoy life without it. 

 Sober curiosity has not only been good for our finances, but also for our health, energy, and happiness. In this episode, you’ll learn that sometimes the best things in life are not the ones you can measure and predict, but the ones you can explore and experience. If you have drinking less as one of your 2024 New Year’s Resolutions, this episode is for you. 

Here are the main points: 

- Sober curiosity is a trend that can save you money and make you happier.
- It's driven by changing preferences, health awareness, and cannabis alternatives.
- It's not easy, but it's rewarding. You need support and role models to succeed.
- It can improve your quality of life in ways you can't anticipate. You have to be curious and open-minded to find out.

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

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

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

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