It’s time for your 2024 midyear money check-in and in this episode, we discuss the importance of celebrating the overlooked smaller financial wins and milestones. We know the feeling – it's easy to get caught up in big goals, like buying a house or retiring early. But what about the smaller victories along the way?Julien reflects on the feeling of hitting "zero-naire" status after paying off debts, and how his mindset has shifted from constantly chasing a bigger number to finding contentment in the present. Kiersten reveals how shifting her perspective on saving from a rigid "all or nothing" approach to a more fluid and sustainable strategy led to greater financial confidence and a more positive relationship with money.We also discuss the power of "sweat equity" in both personal and financial growth, and explore how to apply this concept to everyday life.  Whether it's cooking at home instead of eating out, cleaning your patio yourself, or finding ways to increase your savings rate, every small win counts!After this episode, you might be surprised at how much joy and progress you can achieve when you take the time to appreciate the little things. Links:Ep 71: Buying Used vs New We discuss:The power of mid-year check-ins and why they're critical for understanding your progress and re-evaluating your goals.The importance of celebrating small wins, even when they seem insignificant.The importance of sweat equity in our personal and financial lives, and how it can lead to a sense of accomplishment and purpose.The dangers of chasing hype and the importance of discerning between real financial wins and fleeting trends.The need to re-evaluate our approach to investing and learn about different strategies beyond traditional index funds.The importance of recognizing and appreciating the value of experiences, even if they come at a cost. Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life. Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by ForbesIf you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

This episode is a special one, inspired by a listener suggestion based on a recent event Kiersten spoke at with Ally and UnitedMasters called SelectCon! We're diving into the concept of the "soft life" and how it relates to money, financial goals, and entrepreneurship.Here's what we cover:SelectCon: We start by discussing our experience at SelectCon, a unique event hosted by UnitedMasters, an alternative to traditional record labels that empowers artists to retain ownership of their work. We talked about the financial literacy aspect of being an independent artist, which is where the "soft life" concept came into play.What is the "soft life"? We explore the meaning of the "soft life," how it's often portrayed online, and the differences in perception between men and women.The "soft life" for entrepreneurs: We discuss how to find a balance between hustling and creating a soft life as an entrepreneur, especially when it comes to financial decisions.Pay Yourself First: This episode features a deep dive into the concept of "paying yourself first," which is a key strategy for building a soft life, regardless of your career path.Value-based spending: We talk about how aligning your spending with your values can contribute to building a "soft life" that's sustainable and fulfilling.Brokerage accounts: We discuss the importance of brokerage accounts for entrepreneurs and those with inconsistent income, especially compared to traditional 401Ks.Inner work: We explore the psychological aspect of the "soft life" and the importance of inner work for achieving financial responsibility and a sense of ease.If you're interested in learning more about how to achieve financial freedom and create a soft life that works for you, this episode is for you! Connect with Julien and Kiersten on our website, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.Join our email list to get updates from us, opportunities for discounts, freebies and a quick rundown on the relevant financial and career news impacting your life. Get our book Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away, named 2023 best overall book about investing by Business Insider and one of the best personal finance books by ForbesIf 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 securitySide hustle as a strategic move: Why this generation is turning to side gigs and how to use them to your advantageBurnout and economic uncertainty: Developing a practical approach to mental health and career advancementThe 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 nextYou 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 ForbesIf 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 BureauFull Time Job, Zero Formal Child Care via The CutStarter list of free of cheap summer campsIn 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 ForbesIf you would like to learn more about investing, check out our newest class, Making Money Grow

Learn the art of self-promotion in the competitive job market. Explore the importance of showcasing yourself online and standing out. Understand the fear of rejection and strategies for overcoming mental hurdles. Empower yourself to take control of your career narrative and succeed.

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

Yvette Butler, CEO and founder of Hive Wealth, discusses making finance inclusive through AI-powered planning. Topics include rise of black investors, importance of financial planning, budgeting tools, AI integration, community support in financial journeys.

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