New Money New Problems Podcast

In this episode, we revisit the inspiring story of Courtney Hale, a man who has transformed trials into triumphant journeys. This episode highlights Courtney and his daughter Ever's resilience as they navigate life's challenges, including the loss of Courtney's wife, Tia, and Ever's ongoing battle with sickle cell. Courtney, known for his work as the Chief Hope Dealer at Super Money Kids, shares the evolution of his career, the hardships he faced, and the joy that's fueled his journey forward. The episode also delves into insights about family, love, and making meaningful financial choices. As a tribute to Courtney and Ever, the host encourages listeners to send their love and support before Ever's bone marrow transplant, for which Courtney is the donor. You can find more about their journey in the show notes.Ever's AnnouncementFollow Courtney's Work00:28 Courtney Background and Personal Story02:43 Courtney's Professional Journey and Financial Literacy Work07:12 Challenges and Triumphs in Personal Life23:11 Reflections on Life, Work, and Financial HabitsSupport the show

In this week's episode, we delve into strategies for preparing your finances against potential job loss, economic downturn, or financial emergencies. The episode emphasizes the importance of establishing emergency reserves, describing optimal savings amounts based on different household scenarios and employment stability. It also explores tools and tactics for repositioning debts, utilizing flexible employee benefits, and diversifying investments, especially for those with company stock or equity compensation. Practical advice includes adjusting retirement contributions and withholdings to better balance financial preparedness. The episode also references an article featuring the host's insights on the significance of emergency savings for retirement planning. Check out the MarketWatch article where Brenton was interviewed!02:37 Understanding Emergency Reserves05:22 Layering Your Savings09:13 Repositioning Debts for Stability13:50 Managing Equity Compensation15:28 Optimizing Employee Benefits16:57 Retirement Accounts and Emergency PlanningSupport the show

In this episode, Brenton Harrison reflects on a past podcast episode from 2022 that discussed the challenge of living paycheck to paycheck even with a high income. Revisiting the topic, he shares additional insights he's gained over the past three years. This episode covers reasons why high-income earners may still struggle financially, strategies to establish a financial foundation, and personal experiences and lessons learned. Key actionable steps include stopping retirement contributions temporarily, halting extra debt payments, evaluating subscription services, and reducing lifestyle expenses. He also emphasizes the importance of staying marketable, prioritizing small financial goals, and avoiding comparisons with others to maintain financial health.00:45 Revisiting a 2022 Episode02:19 High Income, Paycheck to Paycheck05:04 Understanding Financial Struggles09:45 Immediate Steps to Build Savings16:27 Additional Insights from 202516:54 Personal Experiences and Advice21:58 Staying Marketable and Setting Goals24:11 Looking AheadSupport the show

In this episode, we discuss how to identify and recover from financial mistakes.The episode also delves into personal biases and behaviors that contribute to financial mistakes and offers steps to correct them. EPISODE RESOURCESNerdWallet articleMy 5 Biggest Financial Mistakes Check out Ted Klontz's book! 01:41 Evaluating Financial Mistakes02:11 Investment Time Horizons03:32 Permanent Life Insurance Policies06:22 Benchmarking Investments11:36 Correcting Financial Mistakes13:52 Understanding Financial Biases15:51 Learning from Past Mistakes18:09 Moving ForwardSupport the show

Check out a snippet from our webinar on solidifying your finances in the event of a layoff and how to negotiate severance!To access the full replay, join our email list at newmoneynewproblems.com/subscribe!Episode Highlights:Common Mistakes in Layoff/Severance SituationsEmployees often don’t ask for enough during severance negotiations; documentation of achievements is crucial.Employers frequently lack proper documentation to justify terminations or severance decisions.Both sides should be prepared: employees should advocate for themselves, and employers should have clear, consistent policies.Negotiation is KeyEverything is negotiable—don’t be afraid to ask for more severance, benefits, or time.Employers may have a “cushion” and expect counteroffers.Use a list of your contributions to the company as leverage in negotiations.Legal ConsiderationsCompanies are not always required to offer severance unless specified by law (e.g., WARN Act) or contract.The WARN Act requires 60 days’ notice (or pay in lieu) for large layoffs, depending on company size and circumstances.Consistency in severance offers is important to avoid discrimination claims.Practical Steps After a LayoffFirst, take time to process emotionally before responding or negotiating.Ask about other open positions within the company before accepting termination.Consider negotiating for extended health coverage or other benefits.Map out which benefits are portable (e.g., 401k) and which are “use it or lose it” (e.g., FSA, dependent care).Employer Best PracticesEnsure all documentation is in order and policies are applied uniformly to avoid legal issues.Have more than one person present during termination meetings to protect against potential claims.COBRA and Health InsuranceUnderstand your rights to continue health insurance via COBRA and alternatives like the health insurance marketplace.Loss of coverage is a qualifying event for marketplace enrollment, even outside open enrollment periods.Severance and Indirect CompensationSeverance may be required if stipulated in a retention or employment agreement.Negotiate for acceleration of equity vesting, continued health coverage, or even compensation for lost value due to blackout periods.Job placement assistance can be requested as part of a severance package.Creative Negotiation ExamplesReal-life stories of negotiating for additional compensation due to unique circumstances (e.g., stock value loss during blackout).Don’t hesitate to ask for job placement services or other non-monetary benefits.Contact Information:Casey Duhart: LinkedIn ProfileLearn more about her consultancy!Follow her on TikTokJames Crumlin: LinkedIn ProfileCheck out his work!And his famous Capitol Steps Crew Workout!For in-depth stories, actionable advice, and more legal and financial tips, listen to tSupport the show

Client case studies on the value of financial advice ...EPISODE RESOURCESShould I Pay A Financial Advisor $6,000?Support the show

Breaking down the "One Big Beautiful Bill"2025 Federal Tax BracketsSupport the show

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