Smart Money Mamas Show: Recent Episodes
Chelsea Brennan
Where moms come together to learn about money – in all the ways it impacts our lives – with love. Discover how you can feel confident with your finances; ditch the money shame and guilt; raise independent, money-savvy little humans; and give yourself the freedom and stability to live your best life. We’ll discuss budgeting, debt freedom, investing, career development, entrepreneurship, and more.
122 Today I'm talking with Renie Cavallari. She's the author of Head Trash and CEO of Aspire- a leadership development, training and consulting firm. Renie is an expert at helping people stop sabotaging their own success by helping them trade their anxiety and fear for bigger potential, and a better quality of life.
We're talking about how to identify your own head trash, why mindset work really is the most important work, and why the quality of the questions you ask can determine the quality of your life.
(5:33) Not sure what head trash is? Find out right here
(8:50) Discover how to identify your disconnected thoughts faster
(11:41) This is why mindset is absolutely the most important work
(14:16) Do you know which of the Four Big Lies you're believing?
(32:48) Here are some strategies to practice dumping your head trash
Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/122
Grab your FREE Healthy Money Mindset Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook
121 Today I'm talking with children's author, Maria Dismondy. Maria has published a handful of delightful books that focus on diversity and character education. Learn how a lack of diverse literature inspired Maria to leave the classroom to publish children's books.
We're talking about how you can use literature for creative conversations starters, tips for helping kids navigate anxiety with a new school year, and why we should always encourage curiosity!
(1:33) Learn how Maria decided to transition from teaching to writing children’s books
(5:33) Here’s why children’s lit is the perfect tool for teaching character education
(7:20) These are some creative ways to build a life-long love of reading
(22:22) Check out these tips for helping kids work through pandemic anxiety in the new school year
(37:01) Ever wanted to write and publish a book? Start here!
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/121
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
Today I'm talking with the founder of Bilingual Birdies, Sarah Farzam. Sarah is sharing her journey of launching her business back in 2006, which was entirely bootstrapped. Through this language learning program, children can learn Spanish, Mandarin, French, and English through an engaging mix of song and play.
Learn how Sarah is also helping others start their own business teaching kids and families in their local community. She'll share all about how you can get paid to play too!
(2:09) Learn what it was like growing up in a household speaking 3 languages
(4:28) Hear about how Bilingual Birdies was brought to life
(13:22) This is how Sarah managed to bootstrap her business
(14:42) Hear why Sarah’s secret to success was learning to fail fast
(27:59) Discover how you can use your language skills to launch your own Bilingual Birdies business in your area
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/120
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook
https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
119 When you're having a new baby, one of the biggest expenses - and greatest unknowns - is medical costs. There is an unfortunate lack of transparency when it comes to birth costs, in addition to the uncertainty of whether you or your child will need specialist care after delivery.
To make sure you understand the costs and get the most out of your health insurance, we're bringing in expert and naturopathic physician and twin mom, Dr. Ashley Burkman. We're talking about how to understand what your insurance covers, ways you can save money on birth costs, what expenses to expect after delivery, and more!
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/119
118 When I was a new mom, I suffered from postpartum depression and anxiety. But while I'd heard about these conditions, I didn't believe they could happen to me. I thought I could fix it all with the right exercise routine or system. I didn't know how to ask for help.
Taking care of your mental health as a new mom - and as your children grow - is crucially important. For your health and your kiddo's.
This week on Smart Money Mamas Live, I'm going to be joined by 3 amazing experts - Dr. Sheryl Ziegler Tiffany Day, and Cinthia Rivas - to talk all about maternal mental health.
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/118
117 Interested in starting a new online business but worried about how to manage it all with little ones at home? Tasha Booth, Founder & CEO of The Launch Guild, is here today to share how to get started making money online on your own terms!
We will be talking about the tasks a virtual assistant can do, how to find clients, what you should charge, and how to avoid building a business out of a scarcity mindset!
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at www.smartmoneymamas.com/117
Download your FREE Design Your Passion Project Workbook:
https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
116 Often, one of the biggest worries for new working moms is managing coming back to work after maternity leave. How do you prepare mentally for the shift? How can you maintain your career goals while balancing new responsibilities as a mama? What about taking care of yourself?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This week on Smart Money Mamas Live, we’ll be joined by Lauren Smith Brody, author of The Fifth Trimester. We'll be discussing how to handle deciding between daycare and a nanny, dealing with bosses who aren't parents, how to rethink mom-guilt, and more!
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/116
115 If you've never been a parent before, it's difficult to go about deciding what's most important as a new mom. It's a time of immense change and fast learning. It’s joyful, but can also be overwhelming - especially when you factor in everyone’s well-meaning advice.
In this episode, we’re joined by Kendra Adachi from the Lazy Genius Collective to dive into how to give yourself grace as a new mom, how to set boundaries with well-intentioned friends and family, and why a registry is a chance to name what matters to you!
Looking for more information, mama?
Check out the full show notes at www.smartmoneymamas.com/115
114 Get ready because today we're going to learn some expert strategies to improve your credit! A healthy credit score is the foundation for building wealth and when it comes to building that foundation - no matter where you're starting - Netiva Heard is an expert.
In this episode, we're going to dig deep into why credit health matters, how credit scores work, the baby steps you can take to improve your credit score, and why a strong credit score can help you build lasting wealth.
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at www.smartmoneymamas.com/114
113 Wondering how to create a baby budget and make sure you're saving money as a new mama?
In this panel discussion, I asked my friends Tasha Cochran of One Big Happy Life, Kristin Stones of Cents & Purpose, and Bethany Bayless from The Motherhood & Money Show to discuss all of our experiences and our best money mama tips!
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at www.smartmoneymamas.com/113
112 Are you currently expecting or planning to start - or grow a family? New babies are exciting blessings. As you prepare for your family to get bigger, it's hard to stop looking at baby clothes, cribs, and imagining what your little one is going to look like.
But it doesn’t take long for your mind to start to spin about all the ways your life is about to change and all the decisions you need to make.
In this episode, we're going to discuss creating a baby budget, understanding your healthcare costs, getting the right estate plan in place, thinking about maternity leave and your career, and more!
Looking for more information, mama? Check out the full show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/112
111 Today I'm talking with fellow podcaster and founder of Thriving in Motherhood, Jessica Jackson. After struggling through difficult pregnancies and other health challenges, she has discovered the tools to help moms go from surviving to thriving in any season of motherhood.
We're talking about why you don't have to struggle alone, why you need to choose which balls to drop, and why noticing your thoughts can help you live a life that is full of what you love most.
(3:59) Find out how Thriving in Motherhood got its start during a mastermind of moms on the playground
(8:27) This is how cognitive behavioral therapy helped Jessica take more responsibility for her own thought life
(10:57) Check out the 5 step path to go from Surviving to Thriving in Motherhood
(21:20) Listen to what changed for the Jackson family as they increased their income when Jessica was able to monetize her biz
(28:07) Learn how you can let yourself off the hook for more of the "should" statements you battle every day as a mama
(31:13) Discover the habits that Jessica has helped her family practice that allow them thrive most consistently
(37:14) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/111
Grab your FREE Family Money Values Template https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
110 Today I'm talking with educator, blogger, and the founder of Tech-Savvy Mama, Leticia Barr. She has brilliantly combined all of her superpowers to help families navigate the difficult task of parenting in the digital age to keep your kids safe online.
We're talking about the difference between passive and productive screen time, how to encourage kids to ask for help when they stumble on inappropriate material, and what tools you can use to monitor screen time usage.
(4:01) This is the difference between productive time and downtime on a screen
(6:39) Discover some of the best tools and apps for keeping kids safe online
(15:45) Consider these ways to navigate boundaries for kids who are wanting to use social platforms
(18:05) Find out how to protect yourself in terms of your digital footprint
(39:43) Here are some things to explore when it comes to trust vs. over-monitoring your kid's screen time
(45:33) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/110
Grab your FREE Family Money Values Template https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
109 Today I'm talking with the author and founder of You Need a Budget, Jesse Mecham. The YNAB app started with a simple spreadsheet he created so he and his wife could generate an extra $300 a month. Now they are busy discovering how to teach their seven children about why they need a budget.
We're talking about why budgets are ever-changing, how to engage your kids' money personalities, and why you don't have to be a money expert to teach your kids about budgeting.
(8:54) Learn where people most often overcomplicate their budgets
(11:09) Here are some tips for helping a reluctant partner understand why you need a budget
(25:24) Wondering how you can discourage kids from buying things you don’t want them to buy? Check out these tips!
(27:16) Check out the four YNAB rules and why they are easy enough for kids to understand (31:00) Hear about the many different versions of budgeting systems Jesse and Julie have tried in their home
(42:35) This is how Jesse is thinking about raising kids who will likely find partners as adults who aren't as financially savvy as his kids will be
(47:13) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at
https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/109
Grab your FREE Family Money Values Template https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
108 In today's episode I'm talking with registered dietician, mama, and founder of Kids Eat in Color, Jennifer Anderson. Jennifer is an expert in helping parents help their kids develop a healthy relationship with food by reducing the stress of mealtime battles.
We're talking about managing food waste, the unnecessary scare tactics used in food marketing, and how to encourage choices with boundaries at mealtimes.
(5:27) Learn why offering smaller portions may solve a lot of the power struggles at mealtimes
(7:35) Find out why food marketing has made us feel terrible if we can't afford to feed our kids "fancy foods" or organic foods
(18:35) Do you know what a food desert is? Here are some tips for feeding your family if you live in one
(25:38) This is how you can manage the stress of food waste on the days your kids aren't eating what's available
(31:26) Find out how you can successfully navigate food battles with "extreme" picky eaters
(55:08) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/108
Grab your FREE Meal Planning Templates! https://smartmoneymamas.com/meal-planning-printables/
107 In today's episode I'm talking with money mentor for world changers and author of Get Rich, Lucky Bitch, Denise Duffield-Thomas. She helps women charge premium prices, release the fear of money, and create First Class lives.
We're talking about how to start tapping into your money story, how to up-level your life in increments, and how to stop being the bottleneck in your own life.
(4:17) Let's define manifesting: what it is and what it's NOT
(9:49) Discover how to uncover the layers of your money story and money memories
(19:41) Learn why you're not a diva if you just want to raise your standards and keep your boundaries
(38:03) If you want to start thinking wealthy, here's how to up-level your life in small steps
(50:45) Learn how to train your brain to practice reverse-paranoia
(56:32) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/107
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook! https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
106 In today's episode, I'm talking with digital product coach for women, Monica Froese. She is the founder of both Redefining Mom and most recently, Empowered Business. Monica is on a mission to help 1000 women hit $100,000 in their business.
We're talking about that one time she chatted with Barack Obama, why our money stories can help us understand our spending habits, and why you're already 100% qualified to create and sell a digital product.
(4:29) Hear about the time Monica's blog got her an invite to chat with President Barack Obama
(11:39) Learn how Monica's business started with the motto that she couldn’t fail
(22:32) Listen to Monica unpack part of her money story and why a desire for control drove her decisions
(32:01) Check out the first step in making sustainable money online
(41:10) Find out when it’s time to launch a product
(47:01) Want to learn how to start selling? It’s simpler than you think
(55:34) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/106
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook! https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
105 For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss more specifics about inheriting money, retirement resources, leaving your 9-5, and more!
(00:58) Our first question comes from Jacqueline who asks, "My husband and I would love to move out of the country at some point soon. When we do, what happens to our retirement and any other investment accounts?"
(6:22) Alice wonders - "We're inheriting some money from in IRA which apparently we have to take out in the next ten years. What do we need to know to be smart about this?"
(10:14) Robin asks, "At 65 and 60 my husband and I feel like we are still "adulting." What are some resources that can help you decide when you can retire?"
(14:45) Tiffany wants to know, "Are there any good podcasts or blogs you’d recommend for Smart Money daddies? My husband is intrigued by all that I’ve been learning, and I might have actually inspired him a bit with my hard work!"
(17:25) Our last question is a fun one: "What did you say to your boss when you decided to leave the corporate world and start SMMs? How did the conversation go?"
Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/105
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
104 Today I'm talking with author and financial literacy and mental health advocate, Natalie Torres-Haddad. As an immigrant and first-generation college student, Natalie had a tremendous challenge dealing with her student loan debt after college. She learned the hard way how her financial health directly impacts her mental health, but now she teaches people of all ages how to be financially savvy.
We're talking about what boundaries you need to put in place to protect your mental and financial health, how to make financial conversations less taboo, and how to make finances less stressful and even fun for kids.
(4:55) Learn how Natalie's mental health took the biggest hit because of the overwhelm of her student loan debt
(09:05) Hear how Natalie has put new boundaries in place to protect her mental health
(14:21) This is a truth about therapy we don't always talk about
(21:13) Find out how Natalie makes taking care of her finances relaxing and part of her self-care
(23:56) Bet you never dance while you budget, but you might after you hear this
(29:51) Want to teach kids about money? Try this budgeting activity with your kids
(36:54) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/104
Grab your FREE Healthy Money Mindset Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
103 In today's episode, I'm talking with financial expert, startup executive, and author, Jennifer Barrett. In her book, Think Like A Breadwinner, Jennifer is helping women re-examine the false narrative that women shouldn't or can't earn more than men.
We're talking about how societal expectations play a role in how women think about money, why you need to think like a breadwinner even if you aren't one, and why being a female breadwinner is worthy of celebrating!
(5:00) Have you noted this difference in how we talk to our son vs. our daughters about money in our society?
(8:26) Listen as Jennifer describes what the breadwinner mindset looks like
(10:06) Find out about the moment Jennifer committed to negotiating her pay and advocating for herself
(25:31) Discover why companies that implement a paid maternity and paternity leave are seeing a direct return on that investment
(28:38) Learn about the work that Jennifer is doing with Acorns to help you invest -starting by just rounding up the spare change
(34:01) If you're ready to take more responsibility for your finances and adopt the breadwinner mindset, here's your first step
(47:58) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/103
Grab your FREE Healthy Money Mindset Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
102 In today's episode, I'm talking with certified personal coach, Cassidy Nasello. I wanted to bring Cassidy on the show to share how using the KonMari method (of Marie Kondo) can help you do a reset on your life as you dive into spring cleaning.
We're talking about the best place to start using the KonMari Method, the deeper emotional work you will dive into, and how you can even simplify and declutter your finances.
(3:45) Learn how Cassidy took the plunge to start her own business even as a typically risk-averse personality
(06:03) Listen to Cassidy describe why the KonMari Method is way more about your vision for your life than it is about tidying and systems
(14:29) Discover how you can use the KonMari Method even as a busy mama
(18:35) Find out how you can declutter without filling up the landfills at the same time
(32:29) Listen to how Cassidy and her husband simplify and declutter their finances
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/102
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
101 In today's episode I'm talking with America's favorite personal finances advisor, Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche. She's used her teaching degree to become an expert in helping women transform their relationships with money so they can become financially whole.
We're talking about the 10 steps to financial wholeness that she covers in Get Good with Money, how to reframe your long-term savings goals, and how to protect your dignity while working to pay off debt.
(9:08) Listen to Tiffany’s definition of financial wholeness
(10:37) Discover how you can simplify your expenses into three categories so you can have more control over your budget
(15:13) Find out why it might be worth it to say no to brunch and yes to Morocco
(20:23) Struggling to prioritize saving for retirement? This idea will help!
(28:58) This is how you can reduce your anxiety when dealing with debt collectors
(32:39) Here are some quick tips if you’re trying to balance saving an emergency fund and paying off debt at the same time
(57:42) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://smartmoneymamas.com/101
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstart Guide! https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
100 For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss 529 savings goals, forming LLCs and new home budgets as we celebrate and reflect on 100 episodes on the Smart Money Mamas Show!
(1:35) Find out which episodes have been favorites for Lauren and the SMM team
(8:07) Discover what Chelsea learned and loved about starting her own podcast
(10:31) Erica asks, "How do I come up with a goal for 529 savings? I'm wondering how to make a decision on whether to prioritize college savings over other FI goals."
(17:13) Justine asks, "How do I choose which ETFs to invest in?"
(26:13) Nicole says, "For hobby incomes at what point does it make sense to create an LLC or issue yourself a 1099 so you can write off expenses?"
(29:50) Beth says, "I know we're generally encouraged to put 20% down on a new home. Is there a suggested amount to save for on-going home maintenance and/or emergencies?"
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at
https://smartmoneymamas.com/100
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
099 In today's episode, I'm talking with best-selling author and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Leah Hadley. Leah has faced many challenging life transitions including adopting three kids overnight, divorce, and a job loss. Now she works with moms who need to rebuild a strong financial foundation for the next phase of their life.
We're talking about how to take the emotion out of the hard decisions, how to stay in control of your income even when it changes, and why you need to let yourself dream again.
(5:16) Learn how Leah works with couples to get on the same page financially
(10:49) Listen to Leah tell about their foster to adopt journey with her three kiddos
(18:55) Find out what resources Leah used most to work through the stress of the divorce
(21:25) Discover Leah's advice if you find yourself needing to transition from 2 incomes down to 1.
(42:57) This is how you can stay in control of your income even in an unstable season
(48:19) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/99
Grab your FREE Emergency Preparedness Checklist https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
098 In today's episode, I'm talking with author and founder of Redefining Wealth, Patrice Washington. She's passionate about helping women build the 6 pillars of wealth which she breaks down in her book Redefine Wealth For Yourself.
Patrice's personal journey of having wealth, losing it, and rebuilding it again is a story of resilience we all need to hear. We're talking about prioritizing your physical health as a mom, setting boundaries to protect what's most important, and how to tap into your network of support as you chase your big goals.
(11:03) Learn how self-diagnosing almost cost Patrice her life
(16:58) Find out why it's critical for you to build in your pillars of support
(24:25) Learn how Patrice and her husband rebuilt their lives after financial disaster
(35:48) Struggling with boundaries to separate family and work? Start here
(40:18) Why you need to stay honest about your money story - even with your kids
(35:48) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/patrice
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter Guide https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
097 Today I'm talking with author and podcast host of Terrible, Thanks for Asking, Nora McInerny. Nora became a widow at a young age. While grief hit her like a freight train, she still manages to find cracks of light through humor and amazing communities like the Hot Young Widows Club and Still Kickin.
Still Kickin is the fulfillment of her late husband's dream to help families find support in hard times. We're talking about the impact of grief on your brain and body, and the practical financial advice Nora has for anyone else walking out a similar journey.
Mama, please know that this episode does cover difficult topics like cancer, loss of a spouse, and miscarriage. If you need to, skip this one and check out another episode today.
(3:23) Why humor has become a way for Nora to find those cracks of light in the middle of grief
(12:07) Find out about the financial situation Nora and Aaron were facing when he got sick
(20:59) Check out the emotional and financial resources Still Kickin offers
(26:53) These are the ways Nora is paving a new path with her finances (and what she’s having grace on herself for)
(39:52) This is permission for you to release all expectations on yourself while you’re grieving
(43:39) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/nora
Grab your FREE Family Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
096 In today's episode, I'm talking with co-founders of The Rebel Mama, Nikita Stanley and Aleks Jassem. These two are paving a new road for the face of motherhood that centers around authenticity and empowerment.
We're talking about how they built their business on maternity leave, mindful consumerism as a new mom, and how they overcame their fears about their own finances in order to empower other mamas.
(5:03) How these two built their business on maternity leave
(10:34) Why you need to get a hold of Rebel Mamas' self-published book, The Handbook for Cool Moms
(13:47) Why mindful consumerism needs to replace your fear of being a bad mom
(16:45) Discover exactly why money is so important to empowerment for mothers
(18:55) This was Aleks and Nikita's money mindset before they started paving a new path
(31:18) Have you thought about your plan for returning to work after the baby comes? Here are some things to consider if you haven't
(49:53) Chelsea's Top Takeaways
Looking for more information mama? Visit the show notes at https://www. smartmoneymamas.com/rebelmama Grab your FREE Healthy Money Mantra Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
095 In this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions.
If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss more specifics about retirement funds, and investing!
(03:44) Kelli wants to know, "What is the recommended percentage to save for retirement? Should you have a Roth IRA in addition to a 401K?"
(9:51) Court asks, "I know we need to be invested in small caps, medium and large caps - How do I know if I'm diversified into all three groups?"
(19:12) Amanda says, "My employer-sponsored 401K offers target-date funds as an investment option. Do you recommend?"
(23:03) Cathryn asks "Is FOREX a real way to make money? Pros and cons?"
(27:07) Evelyn wonders, "Is it necessary for each spouse to have a retirement account? My employer offers a 401k with 4% match and pays the yearly fees while my husband is a teacher and his employer offers a 403b with no match and he has to pay the maintenance fees.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/95
Money Mamas Guide to Investing Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
094 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Global Philanthropy Advisor and Expert, Kris Putnam-Walkerly. She is the author of Delusion Altruism, which highlights the truth that how we give is just as important as how much we give.
We’re talking about why you don’t need to be wealthy to be a philanthropist, why philanthropists can struggle with a scarcity mindset, and how you can take your first step to give with more impact today!
(4:33) This is a definition of philanthropy you might connect with
(6:56) This is why how we give is just as important as how much we give
(11:45) Listen to find out how non-profits find ways to measure their impact
(15:17) Why philanthropists can ironically carry a scarcity mindset
(37:22) Why we need to be adaptive as funders and stop being paralyzed by the unknown
(40:22) Here’s step one of how you can become a philanthropic family
(45:49) Chelsea's Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/kris
Grab your FREE Family Money Values Worksheet https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
093 In today’s episode, I'm talking with power couple and financial educators, Tai and Talaat McNeely. They are passionate about helping you and your spouse or partner get on the same page so you can become tenacious about reaching your financial goals together.
We're talking about dealing with bringing debt into a marriage, how to start money conversations with your partner, and how to establish your own family money values.
(4:12) Discover how this couple got out of debt in their first year of marriage and went on to pay off their house
(9:09) This is why you always need to put all your financial cards on the table
(13:25) Find out how getting on the same team financially improved other areas of Tai and Talaat's marriage
(16:29) Hear the story of that time they flipped a house right in time for the recession
(38:56) This is how you can stop blaming your partner for your money struggles
(43:52) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/93
Grab your FREE Family Money Values Worksheet https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
092 In today’s episode, I'm talking with the full-time content creator and influencer, Mattie James. Mattie now creates content for her blog, Youtube, and podcast and collaborates with some really big brands like Samsung and TJ Maxx.
She's sharing about how her current six-figure income all started with a blog and the inside scoop on what it's really like to be an authentic influencer.
(5:34) Find out how motherhood impacted Mattie's business in a dramatic way
(17:45) Why Mattie is making sure that her kids have the choice between being an employee and being an entrepreneur
(21:05) Learn why Mattie wants to redefine the word "influencer" and unpack the misconceptions about being one
(36:25) Are you curious about how you make money as an influencer? Listen here!
(46:30) There's no way around it. You just have to suck in the beginning. So just start!
(51:38) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways Looking for more information, mama?
Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/mattie
Grab your FREE Passion Project https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
091 In today’s episode, I'm talking with board-certified nurse and trainer, Angel Cellucci about how to identify medical fraud. Angel is on a mission to help empower individuals to be better consumers of healthcare. She helps people make sure the medical care they get is necessary and offered at a fair and reasonable price.
We're talking about how often medical fraud happens, what you can do to prevent medical fraud, and how you can be more effective when you do have to advocate for yourself.
(4:28) Do you know the difference between medical abuse and medical fraud?
(10:15) Follow the DOVE framework to actively prevent medical fraud
(20:34) Learn the 4 blatant types of billing errors or medical fraud
(32:41) Here's how you can approach the process in order to make sure you get errors resolved
(51:21) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/angel
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter Guide https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
90 For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions.
If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing. Today we’re going to discuss increasing credit scores, Bitcoin investing, finding the best provider for term life insurance, and more!
(05:05) Christine asks, "I recently opened 529 plans for my children, and while I was there, the representative told me that I should keep depositing into my 403b and before I retire transfer the money into a ROTH IRA, does this make sense?"
(10:56) Christine had a second question, "My children now have debit cards. What rules should I set up as far as making purchases?
(16:59) Court wants to know, "What is your advice regarding credit cards? I was a die hard Dave Ramsey fan and when I began my debt free journey in January 2015, I did need to get rid of all credit cards because my spending was out of control. Now, my husband and I are about to buy the house we’re renting and payoff our van loan.
(28:14) Nancy says, "What is your take on Bitcoin investing?"
(41:35) Amanda asks, "Hubs and I are saving up to do some home renovations in 5 years. I am toying with the idea of putting it into our brokerage account so that it can get better growth than in a plain savings account. I want to continuously add money so a CD is out. Other than the possibility of losses from potential market dips, what kind of tax implications could I see from my brokerage path?"
(48:19) Tiffany says, "Where do I start for figuring out term life insurance for my husband and I? There are so many options online!! I have a small policy from work, but I know it will never be enough."
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/90
Grab your FREE Money Mamas Guide to Investing Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
89 In this episode, I'm talking with financial therapist and best-selling author, Barbara Huson. Her latest book, Rewire for Wealth breaks downs the neuroscience of money so you can take charge of your finances.
We're talking about chasing sacred success, how to practice rewiring your brain, and how you can teach your kids about money without injecting fear.
[1:57] This was Barbara's painful and dramatic wake-up call that she needed to become financially savvy
[8:32] Are you pursuing "sacred success"?
[12:41] This is how to practically start rewiring your brain around money
[26:20] Discover how you can learn to "reparent" yourself and help heal pasts trauma
[30:40] Here's how you can have honest money conversations with your kids, without infusing fear
[39:19] Chelsea's Key Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/barbara
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
088 Today I'm talking with author and founder of Ladies Get Paid, Claire Wasserman. This was originally a live we recorded in the Motivated Mama Society, which gave our community the chance to ask some questions you're likely asking about the gender gap too.
We're talking about why you need to trust your instincts more, why you should always be intentionally growing your network, and how to negotiate raises and get recognized for the value you bring.
(6:24) This was the one comment that kickstarted all of Claire's research on the gender gap
(12:08) This pinpoints why women have a tendency to discount any work we do that is natural and fun
(19:14) Here are some tips for how to negotiate a raise
(26:38) Learn about the time Ladies Get Paid got sued for gender discrimination by a men's rights activist group
(38:27) These are some ways to make sure you get acknowledged for the work that you're doing
(52:24) Chelsea's Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/claire
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
087 In today’s episode, I’m talking with author and research scientist, Dr. Wendy Wood. Since she's listed in the top 1% of scientists worldwide, I figured she would be the expert we need to make sure our 2021 goals don't go to the wayside by February.
We're talking about why you actually don't need more will power, how to build habits when your schedule is unpredictable, and why finding a community that shares your goals is so crucial.
(2:47) Why persisting with a habit, not just starting it- is so gosh darn tricky
(9:25) Do you know you have habits you're not even aware of?
(17:00) This is the difference between starting a good habit and breaking a bad one
(32:01) This is why repetition is key to building good habits
(44:33) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/wendy
Join the Motivated Mama Society today! https://society.smartmoneymamas.com/
086 Happy New Year! Happy 2021! Happy surviving all that was 2020. Today I have a super special treat for you to celebrate!
I've invited 10 top-notch money experts to the show to share their best piece of advice for the New Year so you can set meaningful money goals - and reach them - in 2021!
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://smartmoneymamas.com/2021
Ready to find your community and join the Motivated Mama Society? Click here to get on the waitlist! https://smartmoneymamas.com/waitlist
85 In today’s mini-episode, I just want to send a quick Christmas COVID-safe hug and say Happy Holidays. For the majority of us, things look really different this year. I hope you can embrace the lack of pressure and maybe some new cozy traditions-some that may even stick around for years to come!
But I also have a special challenge for you to help you make 2021 your best year yet! I hope you take me up on it!
Ready to find your community and join the Motivated Mama Society? Click here to get on the waitlist!> https://smartmoneymamas.com/waitlist
84 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Monica Louie, six-figure debt-tackler who has built an ad agency that all started with a blog. Monica and her husband were able to pay off $120,000 in two years on a blue-collar income after she quit her job to stay home.
We're talking about the creative ways they took big chunks out of their debt, why you don't need to know everything to start a business, and why budgets can be more empowering than limiting.
(4:20) Discover how Monica realized it was time to start a business, even though she didn't have a business idea yet
(7:43) These are some of the early changes Monica's family made in order to start tackling their debt
(16:40) This is where you can start if you're feeling ready to start chasing debt freedom too
(28:04) Listen to the time that Monica got to be in the hot seat on stage with Amy Porterfield
(34:01) Learn how Monica was able to actually sell her blog-ya, it's a thing!
(41:03) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/monica
Grab your FREE Passion Project Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
083: In today’s episode, I’m sharing why prescriptive, inflexible money advice rarely works. We'll unpack why money strategies that are unique to you and your personality are the only ones that work long-term and how you can start charting your own path.
(02:09) Why old school money strategies can do more harm than good
(06:30) Some good news for you if you feel like you "failed" another hard system
(11:17) This is what you need to know if you want to succeed with money long term
(15:03) Start here if you need to find a money management system that works for you
(20:53) Why the key to all this requires a willingness to make mistakes
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/83
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstart Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
082: In today’s episode, I’m sharing the three pillars of what it means to leave behind a healthy financial legacy. I'm going to challenge you to define the word "legacy" and help you understand why your legacy involves a lot more than monetary wealth. We're talking about getting organized, developing a wealthy mindset, and building generational wealth.
(02:05) Why it's important to start thinking about your legacy even when you're young
(11:34) Why a Family Emergency Binder simplifies a lot while you're grieving
(16:51) Don't worry about leaving wealth behind until you've done this
(17:44) Are you teaching your kids to chase their passions or just fantasize about them?
(19:44) This is why it's okay for your kids to be curious about money and learn to use it as a problem-solving tool
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/82
Grab your FREE Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist:
https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
081 In today's episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss holiday traditions in a pandemic, what self-care looks like for us these days, and how to wrap your brain around goal-setting for 2021 when things feel so uncertain!
(2:53) The moment you've been waiting for: Chelsea and Lauren's favorite pie selections revealed!
(3:56) Alice asks, "How are you both doing with self-care?" (That's so sweet!)
(11:59) Why paying attention to your budget is actually another form of self-care
(12:03) Sonia wants to know, "How do I tide over the holiday season without indulging my online shopping urges? What else are you all focusing on as a release or diversion?"
(24:48) Emily asked, "Any ideas for goal setting for the new year when so much is still unknown?" Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/81 Grab your FREE Family Money Values Template https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
080 In today’s episode, I’m talking to New York time best-selling author and podcast host, Kendra Adachi. Kendra is a professional permission giver and systems expert and she wants you to know you actually don’t have to do it all. We’re talking about identifying what matters most to you, tangible ways you can reduce your mental load, and how you can lazy genius your budget too!
(2:56) Find out how you can start naming what matters as a lazy genius
(8:26) How Kendra got started trying to unlearn bad habits and pick up systems to save her sanity
(14:14) Have you had dark thoughts about that lady in Target like this too?
(24:07) Ask yourself this magic question to start uncomplicating your life!
(37:30) Hear about Kendra’s personal budget strategies
[47:45] Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/kendra
Grab your FREE Family Money Values Template
https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
079: In today’s episode, I’m talking to business and finance reporter and host of the Brown Ambition Podcast, Mandi Woodruff. Mandi experienced financial insecurity at a very young age and has been intentional to find ways to create a life full of choices. We’re talking about how to get scrappy when you have to, why your mental health is key to overcoming obstacles, and why prioritizing your personal goals can actually make you a better mom.
(04:27) The first time Mandi remembers feeling the stress of financial insecurity
(12:40) What Mandi's spending habits looked like when she got serious about being financially free
(15:54) Mandi’s tips for how to build resilience in the coming year
(32:10) How Mandi’s goals have shifted as she has become a mom
(47:58) Why Mandi is passionate about raising a son who is resilient, empathetic, and a critical thinker
(51:21) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/mandi
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter Guide
https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
078 In this episode I am talking with Amanda Holden, author, speaker, and expert in equipping women to make smart investment decisions. Amanda is super relatable and super passionate about you being financially free as a woman in retirement. We’re talking about why investing needs to be a priority for women, the biggest takeaways from the stock market in 2008, and how to know if you’re ready to invest.
(4:45) Discover why Amanda has earned and kept the nickname “Dumpster Doggie”.
(13:11) Hear the questions people asked Amanda when she was in investment management in 2008.
(25:09) Never invested before? No problem-start here!
(31:39) Listen here to find out how to know you’re ready to invest.
(48:24) These are the most common misconceptions about investing.
(1:02) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/amanda
Grab your FREE Smart Money Mamas Guide to Investing
https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide
077 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Kristyn Hodgdon, twin-mama, who navigated her own journey through infertility treatments and now supports thousands of other women in her community, The Fertility Tribe. We’re talking about what Kristyn wishes more moms knew before they started their infertility journey, how to handle the financial and insurance side of fertility treatments, and why Kristyn decided to quit a job she loved to support more women as they seek to grow their own families when it doesn’t go according to plan.
(04:45) What Kristyn wrote about in her first blog post of her infertility journey
(08:06) What it was like to balance the mental weight of fertility treatments and work and marriage
(25:09) What Kristyn wishes women who haven’t experienced infertility knew
(30:42) What Kristyn’s financial situation was like as they entered parenthood
(38:19) Encouragement if you are facing secondary infertility
(51:21) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/kristyn
076 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Caroline Vencil, who is an expert living a full life on a tight budget-even as a family of six! We’re talking about how extreme saving can be a severe hang-up, the creative ways Caroline helped her family stick to the budget, and how being intentional makes spending money more fulfilling.
(5:59) Why Caroline’s story of being a rich kid was more of a facade than reality
(9:53) Hear the list of creative ways Caroline saved her family money on a low income
(16:10) Learn the progression of making $10 an hour to 6 figures now
(38:43) Caroline can’t stress the importance of budgeting for this line item enough
(43:26) The non-traditional budget method Caroline uses that worked for her
(54:44) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/caroline
Grab your FREE Meaningful Money Kickstarter Guide
https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
075 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Becky Rapinchuk, founder of Clean Mama, who is an expert in simple systems that help you consistently maintain that cozy place between chaotic and spotless. We’re talking all about taking a business from side-hustle to full-time income, how to get your whole family involved in your cleaning routine, and why cleaning just a little bit every day is a game-changer.
(1:49) How Becky transitioned from blogging and working overnights at Target to building her own business
(12;45) Why the Clean Mama routine works for any schedule, life stage, or family size
(20:00) Struggling with clutter? Check out this genius tip!
(30:10) The secret to getting your whole family on board with the cleaning routine
(35:06) The mantra that will keep the mess to a minimum
(38:09) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/becky
Grab your FREE Meal Planning Printables!
https://smartmoneymamas.com/meal-planning-printables/
074 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Kate Anderson, co-founder of IFundWomen, a flexible crowdfunding platform for female business owners. Kate is going to share the founding story of IFundWomen, the current funding gaps between male-founded and female-founded businesses, and why it’s so important to invest in women-owned businesses.
(7:17) Here’s just one example of how IFund Women supports the unique needs of female business owners
(15:53) Learn the elements of a power-packed sales pitch
(22:25) Find out what types of businesses iFund Women currently supports
(30:32) Discover why it’s so important to invest in women-owned businesses
(54:55) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/kate
Free Passion Project Workbook:
https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
073: In today’s episode, as we honor Domestic Violence Awareness month, I’m diving into a heavy but critical issue for our community to discuss: financial abuse. It may be more difficult to pinpoint than other types of abuse, but it still has life-threatening consequences. We’re talking about how to spot financial abuse, how to find the support you need, and why you’re entitled to a thriving, healthy relationship.
***Please note that the content in this episode contains emotionally triggering content.
(2:46) Learn the true definition of financial abuse
(5:59) Identify the tactics an abuser uses to convince a victim why they don’t deserve access to their own money
(13:43) Why we have to normalize talking about financial abuse
(26:10) Why you need to talk to a friend before you address an abuser directly
(27:01) The best way you can support a friend you suspect is in a vulnerable position
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/73
072: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Certified Financial Public Accountant and founder of Fola Financial, Sheneya Wilson. Sheneya empowers entrepreneurs to stop avoiding the accounting side of your business by implementing simple systems that help you make informed decisions and scale. We're talking about why you need to know your numbers even with a side hustle, why you need to perfect your craft before scaling your business, and what you need to know about the business tax code.
(06:46) How the new tax code is built to benefit businesses like yours
(13:15) Why you can't wait to figure out all this “accounting stuff”
(16:02) Why that shoebox-full-of-receipts accounting method needs to go
(19:44) How to spot the signs that it’s time to invest in your business
(31:05) Discover what business forecasting is and how it can help you with goal-setting in your biz
(54:20) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/sheneya
Free Passion Project Workbook:
https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook
071: For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss prioritizing money goals, real estate investing, the Mamas Talk Money Summit, and more!
(2:16) How do you balance and decide on money goals when it comes to prioritizing short-term vs long-term?
(8:26) My husband and I have technically hit our “coast FI” number and I’m weighing our options between leaving the money in our 401K & IRA to just coast until we retire without putting additional money in them. Or we could take that contribution amount we would put in monthly and add it to our other investment account to potentially pad us if we want to retire before 65. Mistake or no?
(16:01) What do I do after I finish paying off debt except for my mortgage? I’m on track to be debt-free the first part of next year and I’m unsure what to do from there.
(25:19) I’ve been wanting to ask about REITS! We live in a very high cost of a living area (Metro DC) and owning real estate is going to be VERY long term for us, so I wondered if this would be a way to diversify?
(30:13) I’ve sold two homes in the last year and made a bit of money. I’m wondering what are some other options besides just sitting on my savings account to earn some money on my money.
(34:22) There is so much content at the Summit and I’m trying to figure out how to make the best of it. Any advice?
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://smartmoneymamas.com/71
Family Money Values Template:
https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
070: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Financial Therapist, Podcast Host, and author of The Art of Money, Bari Tessler. When Bari was making $11 an hour in her first job, buried in school debt, and financially illiterate, she knew she had to pave a new path. We’re talking about the emotional work we have to do to make real financial progress, why there’s no such thing as “perfect” in finding financial independence, and why you get to prioritize your family over your business when you’re an entrepreneur.
(3:40) Discover the surprising piece that was missing from Bari’s therapy training
(10:32) Listen as Bari describes the 3 phases of Money Methodology
[15:32) Learn about the tool you need to check in with your emotions before checking your bank statement
(31:05) Find out how you can use Money Maps to discover more clarity in your financial decision-making
(45:27) Find out why it’s ok to take a step back and restructure your business when you need to prioritize you and your family’s needs
(53:52) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/bari
Free Healthy Money Mantras Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
069: In today’s episode, I’m sharing seven reasons why you can’t miss Mamas Talk Money 2020! Get a sneak-peek into some of the speakers, resources, and $10,000 in giveaways we have planned for YOU, mama! The best part? It’s free to attend! So grab your kids, tell your friends, and go register for the summit because registration is officially OPEN!
(2:34) Why traditional financial literacy resources specifically fail mamas
(6:16) Why the all speakers at Mamas Talk Money understand what extra challenges you're facing in making financial decisions
(8:47) Learn about everything we have planned for kids this year so you can start building generational wealth in your family
(15:56) Did someone say $10,000 in giveaways? Find out about the amazing resources and swag you could win this year!
(19:53) Find out about all the ways you can dive deeper into the summit content and extend your access if time is keeping you from joining us
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/69
Registration is OPEN! Go grab your seat at Mamas Talk Money 2020
https://www.mamastalkmoney.com
068: In today’s episode, I’m talking with military spouse, accredited financial counselor, and host of the Her Dinero Matters podcast, Jen Hemphill. Jen discovered her own financial confidence when she took a deep dive into her money story to unlock some mindset traps. We’re talking about why your money story matters, how to productively explore financial topics with your spouse, and how Jen jumped into a career after being a stay-at-home mama for many years.
(11:11) How Jen discovered that the non-monthly expenses were causing a lot of money headaches in her home
(25:09) Listen to Jen’s money story and why she never asked for money from her parents growing up
(30:09) How a virtual envelope system could work for your family
(35:35) What helped Jen pursue her own career after being a stay at home mom for so many years
(49:40) Jen’s best tips for budgeting as a military family
(54:20) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/68
Free Healthy Money Mantras Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
067: In today’s episode, I’m diving into all the things you need to know as a first-time homebuyer. For most people, this purchase is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make and it has a huge impact on your emotional well-being. We’re talking about why you need to be in it for the long-run, why you need to know what you can afford, why you should always get help from the experts, and more!
(1:28) Listen to why being in your home for at least 5-7 years makes the purchase price worth the investment
(7:18) Find out why your mortgage pre-approval rate and your actual budget are NOT equal
(11:51) Why I’m begging you not to drain your emergency fund to make a down payment
(17:32) Why investing a real estate attorney will be a decision you never regret
(22:20) Listen to why having a list of deal-breakers, must-haves, and nice-to-haves can dramatically simplify your decision making
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/67
Meaningful Money Goals Kickstart Guide-Free Download!
https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
066: In today’s episode, I’m talking with former teacher and founder of Inspired Budget, Allison Baggerly. Finding herself newly married with hefty debt, pregnant, and facing astronomical daycare costs, Allison knew something had to change. We’re talking about how easy it can be to be unaware of the future impact of debt, how Allison learned to separate emotions and spending, and why budgeting is not a one-size-fits-all move you make.
(03:51) Which of Allison's fears was a driving factor in making a change
(9:14) Allison’s key strategies for curbing emotional spending
(14:15) How she and her husband lived differently as teachers as they tackled their debt
(17:48) What it was like to make that very last debt payment
(25:40) Why tracking your finances unlocks freedom from debt
(42:43) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/allison
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
065: In today’s episode, I’m sharing the three financial moves you need to make this fall to be super intentional about the rest of the year. 2020 has thrown a wrench in all our lives, and especially our budgets. Because of this, there are some unusual things to consider about our spending habits. We’ll cover what it looks like to do a complete budget refresh, why you want to make a plan to coordinate school and work schedules, and how you can refresh your goals to end 2020 with a bang instead of a bust!
(01:15) Why fall is a critical time to refresh your budget
(03:57) Why wiping the budget clean might be a better option than just a refresh
(07:41) Why you should make a plan (and a back-up plan) for covering work and school schedules and not just “take things as they come”
(13:17) A Friendly PSA: Update your beneficiaries—seriously, go do it!
(15:37) Why a goal refresh is a perfect way to prepare for the Mamas Talk Money Summit
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/65
Meaningful Money Goal Kickstart Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
064: In today’s episode, I’m talking with blogger, founder of I heart Planners, and host of the Get Organized HQ Summit, Laura Smith. Laura loves simplifying life with systems, but she also understands how easy it is to fall off the wagon when it comes to keeping up with good habits. For this reason, Laura is an amazing and trusted resource when it comes to organizing. We’re talking about where to start with systems when you’re overwhelmed, how to feel more successful with your to-do list, and Laura’s best tips for cleaning and meal-planning systems. If you love what she has to share, make sure to register for the FREE Get Organized HQ Summit she is hosting that starts September 15!
(03:38) Find out how you can implement organizational systems with little ones around (who can mess them up faster than you can set them up!)
(07:10) Laura shares the first place you should start if you’re motivated to get started but still overwhelmed
(9:40) Check out the 3 “buckets” Laura uses to feel more successful with her to-do list on a daily basis
(21:23) Surprise! Did you know that 21 days actually does NOT make a habit stick? Find out why!
(36:54) Learn which sessions at the Get Organized HQ Summit you should be most excited about
(42:4)] Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/laura
Family Money Values Template
https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
063: For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss taking a maternity leave from contract work, how you can do the most with donor-advised funds, and why you should open up your own retirement fund for your side hustle.
(01:15) How can you plan ‘maternity leave’ from your side hustle and/or independent contractor gigs? Either part-time or full-time gig work.
(03:59) How do you really find your passion when you have no hobbies. Tangible ways besides asking someone what you’re good at.
(07:28) Do you have any tips on working on your passion project or side hustle around your kids' needs and schedules while working a full-time job?
(12:55) Can you talk a little bit about donor-advised fund accounts? Are these only beneficial from a tax standpoint for really high earners? Can you designate the types of charities it gives to or is it at the choice of the fund?
(21:03) Is it worth opening your own Roth or other fund if you just do side hustles or work very part-time? My passion right now is being mostly home with my toddler son but I love to get out there and work a bit to contribute more. I work several side jobs like Census right now, 1 day a week at a kid’s consignment and I’m a caregiver for my autistic nephew. We have a 403B and a Roth in my husband’s name.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/63
Discover Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
062: In today’s episode, I’m talking with course creator, podcast host, and author of “Do It Scared”, Ruth Soukup. Ruth's passion project and blog started as a way to redirect her passion for spending too much money at Target every week. Ruth’s story is powerful because of her willingness to own her fear during hard emotional seasons such as bankruptcy and divorce. We’re going to discuss how action is the antidote to fear, why you don’t have to be an expert to get started, and why the road to success can be insanely bumpy.
(01:41) Hear why it was a tad ironic that Ruth started a blog titled “Living Well, Spending Less”
(08:20) How Ruth wrestled with the guilt of pursuing a passion project that wasn’t making any money yet
(14:48) Find out why it was possible for someone from an affluent home to file for bankruptcy at such a young age
(23:09) Discover the steps that lead to the launch of Elite Blog Academy
(31:48) Learn about the 7 fear archetypes that make up your unique fear fingerprint
(49:43) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes athttps://www.smartmoneymamas.com/ruth
Discover Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
061: In today’s episode, I’ve got some practical advice on how to know when to invest in your business. The fear of failing can keep you from ever getting started, but you’ll burn out fast without a plan to invest somehow! We’ll cover how to decide on your start-up budget, when to buy online tools and courses, and when to outsource and bring on help.
(04:27) Why you must question your scarcity mindset when it’s time to invest in your business
(06:49) Some creative ways to mitigate the cost of your initial investment
(11:24) Discover why boot-strapping a business can make you successful
(18:41) Learn why the search for the “perfect” tool can impede your progress
(26:41) Find out why your business doesn’t need another “you”
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/61
Design Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
060: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Rebecca Olson, life coach, and founder of the Aligning Motherhood coaching program. Rebecca helps moms redefine balance by helping you consider what brings you the most energy so you can pursue that more often and confidently say no to what drains you.
We’re going to discuss being more willing to sit with uncomfortable feelings, why knowing your why is crucial, and what questions you can ask yourself to make more aligned decisions in your career and in motherhood.
(06:44) Listen to Rebecca share her decision-making process before she made the leap to start a coaching business
(09:27) Discover what impact Rebecca’s career transition had on her whole family.
(25:28) Hear about how Rebecca helps moms get clarity by defining your values, purpose, and identity.
(40:25) Find out the reason why our brains get lazy more often than we prefer
(45: 24) Learn what makes you 90% more likely to reach the goals you set for yourself.
(51:40) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at
https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/rebecca
Discover Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
059: In today’s episode, I’m talking to all you high-achievers who are getting stuck because you need to be able to check all the boxes to dive in. It’s time to reframe what you know about traditional goal-setting. I’ll even share the story of how Smart Money Mamas started with a simple blog! We’re talking about why taking small steps and consistent action is powerful, why big goals can lead to big disappointments, and why there are no regrets in taking small steps.
(07:00) Learn why your Step #2-10 will only be illuminated once you take Step #1
(08:55) Listen to see if this is your #1 objection when it comes to taking small steps
(9:18) Why you need to reframe your goals to focus less on the destination
(16:30) Check out the small steps Chelsea took that lead her to develop what is now Smart Money Mamas
(20:20) Why there’s no such thing as a wasted step on this journey
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/59
Design Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
058 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Maxie McCoy, She is on a mission to help women believe in themselves and break out of the mold they were never meant to fit in the first place. We’re going to discuss the specific steps you can take to get unstuck, why your past success is the best predictor of your future success, and why you should be more focused on the direction than the destination.
(07:10) Listen as Maxie breaks down the steps for deconstructing when you are feeling lost, stuck, or you’re just playing small
(15:30) Hear about the moment she realized she needed to break the mold in her own career
(21:43) Why Maxie believes investing in yourself is a game-changer and how she almost missed her chance to become an author
(26:30) How Maxie learned first-hand how that next big goal can be a bit of an evaporating horizon line
(31:30) Why all the years you’ve invested in building a career are NOT a waste if you’re ready for a change
(47:46) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/maxie
Discover Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
057: Have you ever felt like you’re just not doing what you’re meant to do? Like your life is on autopilot and things are mostly great, but lacking that on fire, purpose-driven energy you used to chase? It might be time to consider a passion project.
Today, I’m sharing five signs you need a passion project. 2020 has forced us all to take a closer look at our lives - what matters, what we want, what we most need to thrive. This is the perfect time to reset and do something just for you. It could change your whole life!
Find jump links to the 5 signs below:
(02:21) When you don’t feel like you’re being true to yourself.
(05:22) When you’re overwhelmingly busy, but also bored.
(08:05) When you dread going to work in the morning.
(12:03) When you’re feeling stuck.
(13:59) When you have an idea you keep saying “someday” to.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/57
Free Design Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
056 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Tasha Cochran, co-founder of One Big Happy Life. Tasha is a perfect example of someone who has gone against the grain at just about every turn from joining the marine corp just out of high school, to buying a house as a single mom, to graduating from Yale with a law degree she used to protect minorities and women from housing and loan discrimination. Tasha shares how her career journey unfolded in waves, how she made difficult decisions, and how that ultimately led her to growing a business she loves that works on her terms.
(07:23) How Tasha was able to ditch the narrative that being pregnant at 19 meant her life was “over”
(12:32) How she made a spending plan to give her the freedom to explore her next career
(18:54) Money or Passion: How Tasha’s motivations drove her decision-making
(28:07) What’s being done to close the gap in racial wealth inequality today and address housing discrimination
(38:23) Discover how One Big Happy Life actually evolved from a YouTube channel for natural hair care
(56:36) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/tasha
Design Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
055: Have you been thinking of starting a side hustle or passion project? Whether you’re seeking an extra stream of revenue in these uncertain times or you just want to find more fulfillment in your work, it’s all worthwhile. Times have changed dramatically since our parents started their careers, and it’s time to take note of this. Today, I’m sharing four things to consider that will help you rethink some of those old narratives about what it means to pursue passion and purpose-driven work. It’s time to make that passion work for you.
(04:22) Recognize that passion and purpose-driven work can pay well
(07:18) Why your passion isn’t static and it’s okay if you don’t know what yours is right now
(9:18) Why it’s important to know that just because you love it, doesn’t mean it’s always fun
(12:03) Why you shouldn’t be afraid to start small
(16:19) Why you can’t afford to wait to build your passion and purpose-driven business
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/55
Design Your Passion Project Workbook: https://smartmoneymamas.com/passion-project-workbook/
054: In this episode, I’m talking with Lauren McGoodwin, author of Power Moves: How Women Can Pivot, Reboot, and Build a Career of Purpose. She is also the founder of Career Contessa, where she helps women build successful and fulfilling careers on their terms. Lauren’s genius lies in helping identify every size of power move you can make when you stop waiting for your dream job. We talk about why your career path looks more like a jungle gym than a ladder, why hustle culture needs to die, and why your fear of money can keep you stuck in a career you loathe.
(03:00) What a power move is and why they need to be a part of your daily life
(09:08) How we can figure out what we actually want in a career rather than just being reactive to what’s going on in this world
(19:14) How can we focus on self-care at the office to make sure we’re avoiding burnout
(26:55) How we can continue to develop good relationships with co-workers and make new relationships all while we’re working from home
(34:43) Why your fear of money might be preventing you from pursuing higher-paying jobs
(46:26) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/lauren
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
053: For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Today we’re going to discuss saving for retirement for stay-at-home spouses, investing for kids, when to create an LLC for your business, handling taxes as a business owner, and more!
(01:13) What would be the best retirement account to open for my husband who earns an income but stays at home with the kids? Spousal IRA or his own?
(02:52) If I want to open an investment account, but not have to monitor it all that much, would I need a robo advisor like Ellevest, or is there an option with Fidelity/Vanguard that is fairly hands-off and doesn’t have the .25% fee?
(06:32) What is the best way to move money from my kids’ regular saving accounts to an actual investment account so that they can get a better than 1% return on their money?
(11:20) When does it make sense to register a side-hustle as an LLC?
(14:50) I opened a Roth IRA with Vanguard! Is there anything to keep in mind when allocating funds to get the most tax advantage? What considerations should someone take when allocating funds in a Roth vs Traditional IRA?
(17:55) I have a new virtual assistant business but it’s the first time I’ve worked without having taxes taken out and I’m nervous about owing a lot at the end of the year. What should I keep in mind to prepare?
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/53
Money Mamas Guide to Investing Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
052: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Sarah Li-Cain, finance writer and host of the podcast, Beyond the Dollar. Sarah’s approach to personal finance - blending practical tips and mindset strategies - has led her to become the breadwinner of her family. So for today’s topic, we’re going to discuss why there are still taboos about breadwinning moms, how Sarah’s career grew to take her from teacher to stay-at-home mom to breadwinner, and why she wants more moms to feel confident becoming and being a breadwinner at home.
(01:56) Sarah’s journey to becoming a breadwinning mom
(13:57) How we can be better at owning our earning power and not be afraid to be proud of what we’re earning
(19:46) How childcare and housework has shifted for Sarah’s family since she started earning so much more
(27:45) How Sarah went from frugal DIYer to paying for value over price
(32:03) How Sarah became a freelance writer by accident
(46:40) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/sarah
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
051: In today’s episode, we’re covering a topic that we’ve all been guilty of—emotional spending—and 5 strategies that will help you reduce emotional spending and prevent it from happening in the future. We’ll take a deep dive into the difference between emotional spending and mental health spending, learn how to identify your spending triggers, and most importantly, how to create a plan to crush emotional spending for good.
(01:46) Strategy 1: How to know the difference between emotional spending and mental health spending
(05:22) Strategy 2: How to identify your emotional spending triggers
(10:03) Strategy 3: How to re-route your emotional triggers
(18:01) Strategy 4: How to create a plan for your impulse spending
(19:36) Strategy 5: How to keep your goals and values front and center
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/51
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
050: In today’s episode, we’re talking to Candice Latham, who has built a personal brand that helps people be the hero in their finances, get out of debt, and build wealth. Candice also used her skills from her 9-5 agency job to start her own design business on the side, which allowed her to reach her big money goals—like paying off $47,000 in debt and going from a negative net worth to positive one—much faster. We’re going to discuss how our histories with money impact our money beliefs and behaviors, what moved Candice from just learning about money to actually getting out of debt, and how you can grow your wealth.
(02:23) Candice explains why race and politics are so deeply tied to money
(05:58) After college, Candice began her debt-free journey and she shares her story of how she did it
(11:23) Her strategy for how she paid off her credit card debt, which included a “Debt Slaying Challenge”
(18:45) Why she started her second business on top of her full-time income from marketing
(26:33) Candice’s advice on where you can get started with your own debt-free journey
(32:08) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/candice
Free Debt Payoff Trackers: https://smartmoneymamas.com/debt-payoff-trackers
049: In this episode, I’m talking with Erin Chase, founder of $5 Dinners and MyFreezEasy. Her new project Whis-Kid, which was born out of the COVID shutdown, is helping give thousands of kids an important life skill—healthy, affordable cooking—and can create helpers for you at home! Erin will share how her cooking curriculum and guided videos work for teaching kids to cook, the perfect tasks in the kitchen for every age group, and how to handle the dreaded clean-up after your kids cook in the kitchen. Her tips are so fun and will make you want to get in the kitchen to try out a new recipe with your littles.
(01:25) Erin shares her quarantine project and how it’s since helped thousands of kids
(14:11) The perfect age for you to start cooking with your kids and being intentional with cooking lessons
(25:45) Where you can start if you’ve never felt like you have great cooking skills
(27:53) As kids are leaving the nest and going off to college, here are the basic kitchen necessities that they will need
(34:52) How to handle cleanup in the kitchen with your kids so it doesn’t drive you crazy
(41:20) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/erin
Check out Whis-Kid, Erin's cookbook for kids with guided video lessons: https://smartmoneymamas.com/whiskid
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
Thank you to our partner, Policygenius, for helping make this episode possible. Get multiple quotes for high-quality life, homeowners, or disability insurance and find the best rates for your family at https://policygenius.com/smartmoneymamas
048: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Liz Thames who is the creator of the award-winning personal finance blog, Frugalwoods, and author of the book Meet The Frugalwoods: Achieving Financial Independence Through Simple Living. At just 32 years old, Liz reached financial independence and left her successful career in Boston to live a more purpose-driven life on a 66-acre homestead in the woods of Vermont. We’re talking about what financial freedom means to Liz, her journey from non-profit fundraiser to homesteader, and how her life changed as she pursued and achieved FIRE.
(06:16) What financial independence means for Liz and her family
(15:16) How Liz and her husband developed a plan to reach financial independence together
(19:33) How she was able to balance her spending and curb the urges to spend money with their friends while on the journey to financial independence
(28:48) Where you can start today to identify what you want and what makes you happy in order to align your spending with your goals
(38:24) Advice from Liz if you’re wanting to embrace extreme frugality and stick to what really matters to you
(48:49) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/liz
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
Thank you to our partner, Policygenius, for helping make this episode possible. Get multiple quotes for high-quality life, homeowners, or disability insurance and find the best rates for your family at https://policygenius.com/smartmoneymamas
047: As moms, we have a lot on our plate. The thought of prioritizing self-care, let alone going to the bathroom in peace, is laughable at times. We cannot thrive when we can’t take care of ourselves. We can’t teach our kids how to honor their own needs when we don’t know how to make space for our own.
That’s why in today’s episode, we’re going to talk about why self-care is so hard for moms. In preparation for recording this episode, I posted on Instagram and in our Mamas Talk Money Facebook group asking moms why self-care is hard for them, and I want to share with you their responses, as well as give you 3 strategies that I think will help you get better at prioritizing your own self-care.
(02:33) Real-life answers from moms in the Smart Money Mamas communities on why self-care is so difficult for them
(05:28) Another big issue when it comes to self-care for moms
(13:14) Strategy #1 to create a better relationship with self-care: Not all self-care is fun
(16:52) Strategy #2 to create a better relationship with self-care: Let’s get to the fun stuff!
(20:23) Strategy #3 to create a better relationship with self-care: Make it a family affair
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/47
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
Thank you to our partner, Policygenius, for helping make this episode possible. Get multiple quotes for high-quality life, homeowners, or disability insurance and find the best rates for your family at https://policygenius.com/smartmoneymamas
046: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Jennifer Allen, founder of Just Elope, a company that specializes in unique, intimate, and creative pop-up weddings and elopements. Jennifer has been building her passion business since 2017 while working full-time, along with being a Certified Women’s Empowerment and Marriage Coach. She is an inspiration for all women who want a healthy, happy marriage and the opportunity to pursue their passions—without having to choose one over the other. Jennifer shares how she and her husband approach money, how they’re financially preparing for her to take Just Elope full-time, and how she makes time for her marriage and motherhood while working her 9 to 5 and running a business.
(07:17) Why a creative pop-up wedding and/or elopement is a great option for couples
(09:26) Other businesses Jennifer started and why she’s so drawn to the flexibility and freedom of entrepreneurship
(16:29) How she and her husband have handled conversations about money from the start of their marriage to present
(29:06) What Jennifer does, specifically, as a women’s empowerment and marriage coach and how she checks in with her clients to ensure they’re feeling connected
(37:46) Jennifer’s advice for moms who are wanting to build a business that fits their lifestyle and won't intervene with family time
(45:55) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/jennifer
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
Thank you to our partner, Policygenius, for helping make this episode possible. Get multiple quotes for high-quality life, homeowners, or disability insurance and find the best rates for your family at https://policygenius.com/smartmoneymamas
045: For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
Typically our questions in these mailbags are centered around our monthly theme. But this month, we abandoned our usual theme structure to create the necessary space to talk about racial inequality and our commitment to being actively anti-racist at Smart Money Mamas.
I just want to say I was so grateful for the conversations our community had this month and how our mamas showed up for each other. You all are amazing.
This shift did mean we lacked some of our normal focus. Which also means a good mix of questions for this month’s Q&A. We’re going to discuss finding your path, thinking about investment goals once you’re on track for retirement, 529 College Savings Plans, and getting the accountability you need on your money journey.
(02:22) How do you find your path when starting over? How do you figure out what you will love to do and where do you start?
(07:24) If I’m on track for retirement, should I put excess money in a traditional IRA, a growth life strategy fund, or both?
(12:17) Outside of potentially shifting our tax bracket due to higher income and balancing withholdings, are there tax considerations specific to unemployment benefits?
(15:29) What should a family look out for in a good 529 plan? And is it better to have separate plans for each child?
(22:08) Is it okay for a child to have more than one 529 account? And if they do, is it better to merge them into one or keep them separate?
(28:52) Do you recommend financial coaches for people that know their goals but struggle with accountability? What are some affordable options or people you recommend?
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/45
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
044 In today’s episode, I’m talking with Michelle Jackson, founder of the website and podcast, Michelle is Money Hungry. One of Michelle’s favorite passive income sources is writing and selling ebooks, and that’s exactly what she’ll be covering in this episode. She’ll share how to write and self-publish fiction and non-fiction books to create streams of passive income even if you have no experience or background in writing, why “do it ugly” is her motto for getting things done, and some ways to leverage ebooks to earn even more money outside of book sales.
(02:24) How Michelle got started writing ebooks and how it creates passive income for her and her family
(10:11) Do you have to have a background in writing to write and sell ebooks?
(16:52) Where to start if you’re thinking about writing an ebook
(27:30) How to know if your ebook is a success vs. a flop
(40:37) Details of Michelle’s Make Money with EBooks Course and Make Money with EBooks Academy
(46:32) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/michelle
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
043: Are you still struggling to manage your career, parenting responsibilities, and relationships while trying to work from home with kids? In this episode, I’m talking with Mary Beth Ferrante, founder of Work 360, a platform designed to help working parents thrive in their careers and as caregivers, in addition to helping companies create policies that attract and retain working parents. With all the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, Mary Beth will be sharing her best advice on creating open communication at work, starting a greater conversation about parenting with your spouse and others, and setting boundaries that will help you more effectively manage everything on your plate.
(04:59) How to approach the conversation with your spouse about setting up a work-at-home schedule that works for everyone
(08:58) How to have conversations with your employer, in times of such uncertainty, to let them know you may need additional support working remotely
(18:22) How to ensure going forward that any underlying health conditions you may have are kept confidential at work with new guidelines in place
(24:07) How to manage all the responsibilities of the home, prioritize tasks, and involve everyone in the home while working from home
(29:10) How to fit self-care into all of this and make sure that it becomes a priority as a mom
(39:24) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/marybeth
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
042: In today’s episode, I’m talking to Christine Michel Carter, a global voice for working moms, a writer, speaker, marketing strategist, and creator of Mompreneur and Me. Christine shares her perspective on a few important issues all working moms face—the illusive question of balance, handling impostor syndrome, and avoiding that dreaded burnout. Whether you’re wearing many hats like Christine or just trying to get a handle on your career while parenting, I think we all struggle with burnout, and today’s episode will help you avoid just that.
(09:04) How to overcome the barrier of reaching out and asking for help when you really need it
(14:51) How to overcome anxiety and impostor syndrome to feel more comfortable when public speaking or putting yourself out there
(17:13) What summit syndrome is and how it ties to perfectionism
(27:17) Christine explains what Momprenuer and Me is and how it works
(40:32) The benefits of women having their own businesses and how to network with others to improve your confidence and overcome impostor syndrome
(49:17) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/christine
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
041: How can you advance your career and get noticed if you hate talking about yourself? Knowing how to own your achievements and celebrate them is a major key to success, particularly for women. It’s time we become confident in raising our voices in support of our skills and learn how to brag better.
In today’s special bonus episode, I’m talking with Meredith Fineman, founder and CEO of FinePoint, a leadership and professional development company, and author of the new book Brag Better: Master the Art of Fearless Self-Promotion. She’ll explain the 3 pillars of bragging better, why it’s important to model that for our children and the other women around us, and some tips for being more strategic with your resume and bio. By the end of this episode, Meredith will have you feeling empowered to go out and take ownership of your success.
(03:42) Meredith explains “the qualified quiet” and shares the 3 pillars of bragging better
(10:16) What being proud (pillar 1) and being loud (pillar 2) really mean when talking about yourself
(17:09) Why being explicit is important for effective communication, especially in online and virtual settings
(19:39) Ways to brag better in your bio and on your resume
(26:51) How working backwards from your goals helps you be strategic (pillar 3)
(33:15) The difference between self-deprecation and verbal undercutting
(39:38) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/meredith
Healthy Money Mantras Workbook https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
040: In today’s episode, Chelsea is talking with Blessing Adesiyan, a mother of three, career professional, and the founder & CEO of Mother Honestly, a solution-driven platform and ecosystem that propels women forward in motherhood, work, and life.
What we love most about the interview with Blessing is her commitment to promoting better policies and systems to support working moms. She’s passionate, ambitious, and we’re so excited to share her story with you. We’ll get into the details of how she’s been able to juggle it all as a mom with a full-time job and business while staying ambitious, what her upcoming free conference is all about, as well as her best advice for listeners who are wanting to make an even bigger impact in this world.
(06:08) How Blessing juggles motherhood, working full-time, and running Mother Honestly while staying ambitious
(14:52) Blessing shares a little about her new startup, Villo, which focuses on building a world where work, home, and life can co-exist
(22:52) She explains the mission of The State of Black Mothers In America Conference and how can we better understand the experiences of black mothers
(29:41) The amazing speaker lineup for The State of Black Mothers in America Conference starting on June 19, 2020
(33:29) Blessing’s advice for mamas listening who want to do more to make an impact
(37:03) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/blessing
039: In today’s episode, we’re talking to Meaghan Siekman, a PhD in public history and a genealogist at the New England Historical Genealogical Society, about the history of racial bias in the U.S. and her experience, as a white woman, facing the realities of slavery and colonialism in her everyday work.
Yes, it’s weird to have a conversation about race between two white women. Neither Meaghan or I have ever experienced racism. We come at this conversation from a place of immense privilege. And we will, absolutely, talk to Black women on the racial situations in this country over the coming weeks. But in the practice of allyship, we did not want to put additional pressure on Black women and men to educate us on what we need to know and what we should do next.
Meaghan truly has a powerful perspective—particularly for white women who are just starting their anti-racism work—on what it looks like to really address our history of racism in the U.S. on a regular basis in her work.
We’ll cover some events in history that have led us to where we are today, where to start if you’re brand new to anti-racism work, as well as Meaghan’s best advice and resources for those who are wanting to learn more about their own bias.
(07:11) What Meaghan’s work as a genealogist entails and how her partnership with the GU272 Memory Project has been the highlight of her career
(25:09) How Meaghan addresses her privilege when presenting families with her research and the information she gathers
(30:01) If you’re brand new to your anti-racism work, this is the number one thing you need to know about the history of slavery
(54:10) Meaghan’s advice and resources for those who are wanting to educate themselves about their own bias
(1:10:53) Steps Meaghan is taking with her own kids and how we can better educate our kids on all areas of history
(1:32:08) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/meaghan
038: Smart Money Mamas and Mamas Talk Money are absolutely about financial health and prosperity. They’re about creating wealth and freedom and being able to live in line with your values. But that is not the root core of our mission.
Our true purpose is to connect with mamas who live and love with their whole hearts. Who believe in more. More for themselves, more for their families, more for the world. Mamas who want to make a difference—that believe things can be better are willing to do the work to get there.
Of course we’ll talk about money. Because money, as I’ve said so many times, touches everything. And having financial security and freedom lets you live more in alignment with who you are. But we’ll also talk about self care, mental health, parenting, sustainability, gender wealth gaps - and, like right now, race. Because those things speak to what it’s like to be a whole-hearted mama.
If you’re a person listening to this, nodding your head, smiling—I’m so over the moon glad you’re here. You’re our people. We’re going to have a lot of fun and learn a lot together.
(02:47) Who we are and what we stand for at Smart Money Mamas and Mamas Talk Money
(05:52) What you can expect in the near future from us at Smart Money Mamas
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/38
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
037: How can you be everything - how can you really be anything else - when you have to be a focused mother 100% of your time? The simple answer is you just can’t. That’s why, for the month of June, we’ll be diving into the realities of being a working mom—from working at home with kids and building successful businesses to making power moves in your career and handling the demands of parenting and emotional and household labor. We’ll talk about creating careers you love while balancing things at home and ditching all the overwhelming guilt that we experience as mothers.
In today’s episode, I’ll be sharing why the idea of “having it all” is just unrealistic and how you get to decide what that personally means for you. We’ll discuss the history of how we got to this place as well as help you recognize that what you may be asking of yourself is very hard to live up to.
(05:47) The history of how we got to this place of trying to “have it all”
(09:02) How to recognize that was is expected of you—and what you may be asking of yourself—is impossible
(10:08) How to decide what “having it all” means to you, personally
(11:53) Why the standard systems that exist can make being a working mom hard (and even harder depending on your marital status, race, or income level!)
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/37
Meaningful Money Goal Kickstart Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
036: In this episode, I’m talking with Stacy Francis, president and CEO of Francis Financial and host of the Financially Every After podcast, about a topic that is impacting more and more people every year—how to manage money as a blended family. Stacy is going to share what conversations women in blended families need to be having with their spouses, how to plan for your financial future, and how you can blend traditions and beliefs to create a beautiful, thriving marriage and family.
(05:05) Why you should get “financially naked” before walking down the aisle
(08:46) How prenuptial agreements offer protection to women entering into blended family situations & why it doesn’t have to be unromantic
(21:13) Common mistakes couples make when combining two families
(35:16) How to talk to kids about the changes to your family & some tips on how to be honest if your financial situation isn’t secure
(40:08) The key for couples in blended families to have a positive money relationship and money plan with their partner
(44:35) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/stacy
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
035: Still have questions about creating your family’s unique money values? We’ve got you covered in this special Q&A style episode.
For this episode, we asked the mamas in our free Mamas Talk Money Community on Facebook to send us their questions about family finances and family money values. If one person in our community has a question, there are no doubt others wondering the same thing.
So if you’re still a little overwhelmed by the topics of teaching your kids about money, your aging parents and their finances, or what your specific family money values are, today’s episode will help clear things up. I’m going to be sharing my answers to questions we received about helping your teens budget, how to prepare financially for the death of a loved one, whether or not spending money on unnecessary things for your kids is frivolous or not, plus so much more.
(02:01) How do you teach teens about budgeting as they start earning their own money?
(04:42) What are some tips for teaching young kids about money right now when going to the store to use cash is not super practical?
(08:41) What are some ways to prepare for the death of loved ones and make the process as smooth as possible?
(12:57) Is life insurance for kids necessary?
(16:58) What is the value of prepaid burial plans for adults?
(19:18) What are some things people who are good with their finances will spend money on for their kids that aren’t entirely necessary?
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/35
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
034: Remember when your parents had the birds and the bees conversation with you? Well, now it’s your turn to sit down with your parents for “the talk”. Talking about aging and money with our parents can be scary - but it is so necessary in order to avoid harder situations in the future.
In this episode, I’m talking with Cameron Huddleston, author of Mom and Dad, We Need to Talk. She is going to walk us through how to start these conversations with our parents, why it’s so important, how to make the situation a little easier for both us and our siblings, and what to do if your parents just don’t want to have this talk with you. This episode is eye-opening and will definitely have you thinking about your parents' future—and your own.
(10:03) What happens if you don’t have the proper documentation in place before your parent(s) becomes incompetent
(14:19) How to navigate these conversations with your siblings ahead of time and why you should do it before even talking with your parents
(19:20) How to present the different options to your parents in a way that doesn’t make them feel like they’re being shipped off to a nursing home
(32:31) When you should actually start to have these conversations with your parents
(42:05) What you can do if your parents just really don’t want to have “the talk” with you
(48:40) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/cameron
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
033: Knowing when to pivot your goals is something we don’t talk about enough. Circumstances change all the time and that can make setting goals hard. We can’t predict the future. Our lives change. Who we are as people and what we want changes. So how do we actually know when to let go of one goal and focus on another? And what about when we haven’t changed but life forces us to shift focus—do we stick to our original goals or do we pivot?
In today’s episode, I’ll share some questions you can ask yourself to help ground you when your life interferes with your goals, how to tell if it’s time to pivot your goals, and some insight on how to tell the difference between the messy middle of the right path from the true need to pivot in a new direction. Changing—or even examining—your life goals is not easy work, but we do it because we all deserve lives full of joy and purpose.
(01:45) Why knowing when to pivot your goals is just as important as setting them in the first place
(02:30) Some questions to ask yourself when you haven’t changed your goals but the world has
(06:22) Why it’s important to be aware of how external expectations are affecting your decisions
(08:48) Some clues that the path you’re on may no longer be the right path for you
(11:52) How to tell the difference between the messy middle of the right path and the true need to pivot
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/33
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
032: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Leah Remillet from The CEO Kid. Leah is an international speaker and trainer specializing in business growth without compromise. Her mission is to activate leadership and business skills in kids to prepare the next generation of self-reliant, confident entrepreneurs. We’ll cover how to teach your kids about money management, prepare them for success in the workforce, and encourage them to flex their entrepreneurial skills. Leah is so much fun to talk to, and I guarantee that by the end of this episode, your mind will be racing with ideas to implement with your own kids.
(04:27) Leah’s Advice for moms forced into homeschooling that are trying to come up with ideas and activities for their kids during this time
(07:51) How to prepare your kids with the skills necessary to enter the real world and workforce
(16:18) How to encourage your kids to build their people management skills so they can understand how to relate to other people
(24:47) Why entrepreneurship is so powerful in teaching kids creative problem solving, the number one thing employers look for
(38:00) How to teach your kids money management skills with the profits from their business idea
(53:50) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/leah
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
031: Allowance is one of the core ways parents can teach their kids about money. But it's also one of the places where we can make mistakes if we’re not intentional. We know it’s not as simple as handing our child money every week or every month and walking away. So how do we avoid allowance mistakes and set up a successful and empowering system instead?
In today’s episode, Chelsea will cover 5 of the most common allowance mistakes parents make and how to turn each one into a positive action. By knowing what these mistakes are, you will be in a better position to help your child learn healthy money management that aligns with your family’s core money values. We’ll cover how to avoid making saving money feel like a punishment for your kids, how to let them make their own money mistakes, and how to decide whether or not they’ll receive an allowance as a result of completing chores.
(05:46) Mistake #1: How not starting allowance early enough can cause your kids to miss out on vital money lessons
(07:18) Mistake #2: Making the idea of saving money feel like a punishment & what to do instead
(11:18) Mistake #3: Why being inconsistent teaches your kids the wrong lessons about money
(14:10) Mistake #4: Not letting your kids make their own money mistakes & tips to help them when they do
(17:20) Mistake #5: How to help your children handle outside money messages
(20:29) How to flip the script & turn each of these mistakes into a positive action that builds a successful, empowering allowance practice
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/31
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
030: In today’s episode, Chelsea is talking with Jennifer Petriglieri, an Associate Professor of organisational behaviour at INSEAD business school and the author of Couples That Work, a book about how working couples can thrive in their careers and relationships. Creating healthy, lasting relationships while allowing your career to thrive is possible. And it’s Jennifer’s specialty.
Jennifer will take us through the 3 major transitions that dual career couples face throughout the course of their relationship—from how to have those first conversations and the concept of “couple contracting” to making a habit of treating your partner with kindness and how to handle logistics once the foundation for your long-term goals has been set.
(07:24) How to navigate potential issues that may come up during the first transition with both parents working
(11:37) How to facilitate a conversation with your family to let them know you want to keep working, even if you only make enough to cover child care
(15:24) Jennifer explains the concept of “couple contracting” and the 3 main elements that the contract must cover
(33:35) How to have conversations with your kids to make sure that the family dynamic remains stable when making decisions
(38:51) Jennifer shares her advice on how to split household duties once you have a foundation of what you want your career priorities to look like
(46:00) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/jen
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
029: The practice of defining your family money values is an incredible way to start or improve money conversations with your loved ones. In today’s episode, we’re going to walk through the big pillars of defining your family money values—from how to start these conversations and how to decide what your family’s values are to tips for defining your long-term vision and incorporating your kids into the conversation. When your family has a shared value system and money narrative, everyone knows what’s important and how financial decisions are made, and that gives you all focus as your work toward your family’s financial goals.
(03:22) Why identifying the money stories, hang-ups, and beliefs you and your spouse have is a crucial first step
(07:44) How to decide what your family’s life values are
(09:23) Tips for deciding what security means for your family
(11:44) How to define your priorities and create a long-term vision
(14:20) Ways to incorporate your kids and the money lessons you want them to learn
(16:53) The importance of choosing family money mantras
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/29
Family Money Values Template: https://smartmoneymamas.com/family-money-values-template/
028: In today’s episode, I’m talking with Jean Chatzky, a long-time financial journalist, who created HerMoney Media—an extension of her successful HerMoney Podcast—to encourage more women to embrace the sometimes uncomfortable topic of money and how it can be used to help them live less stressed, more purposeful lives.
Jean will share with us her 5 simple, but very important, steps that all women need to take to reach financial security. After listening, you’ll have learned the importance of earning a decent living, spending less than you earn, how to tell if your retirement is on track, and so much more. Reaching financial security is possible, and this episode will show you just how simple it can be for you.
(07:01) Jean’s 5 basic steps that all women need to take to reach financial security
(09:23) Why it might be a good idea to stay in the workforce even if child care is eating up most of your salary
(22:08) Jean shares her experience and opinion on whether or not real estate is still a good option for investing your money
(32:41) How you can decide how much is enough to save when it comes to your complete investment portfolio that secures your retirement
(37:06) How to use an allowance system as a tool to teach your children how to make smart choices with a limited resource
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/jean
Free Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
027: Still have questions about financial security during these times of financial uncertainty? We’ve got you covered in this special Q&A style episode made possible by the mamas in our Mamas Talk Money Facebook community.
Whether you want to learn more about different types of insurance and long-term care or retirement planning strategies, today’s episode will help to clear the confusion surrounding some of the most common questions regarding financial security.
(01:22) How life insurance works and what the difference is between whole and term life insurance
(06:44) How to prioritize insurance premiums when you might be struggling each month financially
(10:46) How does critical illness insurance work?
(12:27) Is pet insurance a good idea? If so, what should you keep in mind when shopping for insurance?
(15:340 Is a 401K still the best vehicle to save money in?
(18:27) How much should you be saving for retirement?
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/27
Free Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
026: In today’s episode, Chelsea chats with Kumiko Love of The Budget Mom who paid off $77,000 of debt, and more recently, bought her dream home...in cash! They cover Miko’s journey—how her money mindset played a major role as she paid off debt and started to reach for bigger goals, what financial security and independence means for her, and dive into her process for getting started on your own debt freedom journey. There is so much power, freedom, and security in getting out of debt and giving yourself more options. We hope this episode will inspire your own journey, whether you’re well on your way or just getting started.
(08:24) How Kumiko would reward herself whenever she would hit a goal and how those rewards were part of her biggest mindset shift
(12:19) Kumiko shares what financial security and financial freedom mean to her
(17:46) How to get started with paying off debt even when you don’t believe it’s possible
(20:21) Kumiko’s 3-step process for creating a successful budget as well as how to budget when you have fluctuating income
(36:48) What she wishes all moms knew about money
(39:50) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/kumiko
Free Debt Payoff Trackers: https://smartmoneymamas.com/debt-payoff-trackers
025: How would you feel if you were debt free? Unburdened? Secure? Confident?
Ridding ourselves of consumer debt and learning to live within our means is a powerful thing. It opens up the doors to opportunities we previously didn’t think were possible.
In this episode, Chelsea breaks down 6 simple steps to get your debt paid off the right way. Debt payoff journeys are never easy—they take commitment to keep at it through all the ups and downs of life. But you can do it—and do it with joy. We’re going to cover different strategies to get your debt paid off faster, the #1 thing you need to stay motivated throughout this journey, and how to determine how much extra money you have per month to put towards debt. If you’ve been wanting to get your debt paid off, this episode is a must listen.
(01:30) Step One: How knowing your “why” for getting out of debt is the key to success and sticking to your debt freedom journey
(03:31) Step Two: How to get up close and personal with your budget to get a better idea of how much extra money you can put towards your debt
(05:38) Step Three: Checking in on your emergency fund and how much to have saved before starting your debt payoff journey
(07:46) Step Four: How to decide which debt to start paying off first, including different strategies to get your debt paid off the fastest way possible
(11:40) Step Five: Making moves to start paying off your debt
(13:22) Step Six: Find ways to earn more money to speed up your debt payoff journey
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/25
Free Debt Payoff Trackers: https://smartmoneymamas.com/debt-payoff-trackers
024: Trying to navigate the world of personal finances can be challenging with a special needs child. Fortunately, there are resources that can help.
In this episode, Brynne Conroy of Femme Frugality shares her extensive knowledge on how to navigate the world of personal finances with an autistic child. She’ll cover how to help your child get the resources they need, how to budget, plan, and save for expenses associated with a special needs child, how to prepare your child to advocate for themselves when they enter adulthood, and some insight on how to support special needs children and their families.
(11:17) How you can advocate for your child during the diagnosis process and what you can do to help them get the resources they need
(21:15) What ABLE accounts do and how you can use them
(25:28) Why having a special needs trust is better than just naming your child as a beneficiary of an insurance policy
(30:00) How you can budget, plan, and save for what your upcoming expenses may be with a special needs child
(34:39) How to prepare your children to advocate for themselves in seeking a career advice for them
(40:58) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/brynne
Access Brynne's free Medicaid & Autistic Children: A State-By-State Guide for details on what benefits your child may be eligible for!
Free Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
023: Have you ever wanted to know the full story of how I left my investing career to start Smart Money Mamas? And why helping women embrace their money and afford lives of their dreams is my passion and purpose?
In today’s episode, I’m going to be getting pretty vulnerable with you. While it’s a time for celebration (it’s my birthday!), it's also time I shared with you the backstory of Smart Money Mamas, how it came to life, and my vision for the future. I will discuss my life before starting Smart Money Mamas, how I took a leap of faith to leave my high-paying job, as well as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and how it applies to the way we make decisions surrounding money. I’m so excited to share this episode with you so you can have a better understanding of who we are and why we do what we do here at Smart Money Mamas.
(01:52) Chelsea shares her back story and a bit about who she was and her life before starting Smart Money Mamas
(04:53) How Chelsea took a leap of faith starting a blog to help other women by answering their money questions.
(09:14) Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs explained and how it relates to your money
(12:33) Chelsea describes the vision for Smart Money Mamas, who it’s for, and how it can help you
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/23
Free Meaningful Money Goal Guide: https://smartmoneymamas.com/meaningful-money-goal-worksheet/
022: Thinking about death and estate planning is probably the absolute last thing you feel like doing, right? But here’s the thing—if you want to be sure your wishes are honored after you're gone, you need a plan.
In this episode, Heather Satin of Satin Legal shares her extensive knowledge of estate planning and makes a particularly scary topic seem a little easier to understand. Heather gives us so much valuable information—from the importance of having an estate plan and HIPAA forms in place to choosing guardians for our children and beneficiary designations.
(02:35) Heather explains why it’s so important to have an estate plan and what happens to your estate if you don’t have a plan in place if something happens to you
(09:17) Why parents of minor children need to have a plan in place rather than relying on the state to handle their estate
(14:31) What we, as parents, should consider when choosing a guardian for our children
(34:23) When it’s worth considering a trust and what could go wrong with beneficiary designations and life insurance if you don’t have a trust in place
(40:24) How we can make sure our estate plan doesn’t just plan for our death but also plans for end of life care and medical issues
(51:46) At what point kids entering adulthood should have their own forms of power of attorneys in place
(1:04:28) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/heather
Free Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
021: Are you financially prepared today if something were to happen to you tomorrow? Financial emergency and estate planning often falls into that “important but not urgent” area of our to-do list that gets pushed off time and again.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing everything you need to know about effective financial emergency planning so you can feel at peace knowing that your family is taken care of in the event of the unspeakable. I will discuss the different types of insurance most families need, wills and trusts, how to keep all of your financial records organized, and so much more.
(02:56) Why establishing a robust emergency fund is a must
(06:18) 5 core types of insurance most families need
(11:18) Why, if you have children, you absolutely need a will to be sure your wishes are honored
(15:49) The importance of creating a Family Emergency Binder
(18:29) The purpose of a grab & go bag and creating a disaster plan for your family
(21:11) Chelsea recaps the steps to an effective emergency plan
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/21
Free Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
020: Do you crave more options and greater freedom in your finances? You’re definitely not the only one. Obtaining financial security can sometimes feel impossible, but if we can learn to identify the emotional roadblocks standing in our way, the journey can be so much smoother—even enjoyable.
In this episode, Chelsea talks with Kiersten Saunders of Rich & Regular, a blog dedicated to the simple goal of providing an honest, informative take on how to improve your life through mastering personal finance. She shares how she and her husband overcame their differing views of money, the steps she took to permanently change her money habits, and how you can become better with your money and find success on your own journey to financial security.
(08:10) Kiersten explains her and her husband’s differing views on money and how their first discussion about finances came about
(15:58) The first steps Kiersten took to change her money habits permanently
(26:08) How she and her family decided what kind of house they wanted, how much they would spend, and what worked best for their family
(35:37) The first steps you need to take in your own journey to become better with your money
(38:40) Kiersten talks about why her main focus is creating more black millionaires and how her platform is changing the narrative
(43:41) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/kiersten
Free Financial Emergency Preparedness Checklist: https://smartmoneymamas.com/financial-emergency-preparedness-checklist/
019: Still have questions about growing your wealth through investments and diversified income streams? We’ve got you covered in this special Q&A style episode made possible by the mamas in our Mamas Talk Money Facebook community.
Whether you want to learn more about different investment accounts available to you or get inspired to invest in yourself and your side hustle, today’s episode will help to clear the confusion surrounding some of the most common questions regarding investing and growing your wealth.
(04:39) What to do if you feel uneasy about parting with your hard-earned money and investing during unknown times
(07:14) Is it too late to start investing, and if not, where do you even start?
(11:24) The difference between all retirement plans such as 401k, 403b, Roth, IRA, and so on
(15:35) Why investing in yourself to pursue a side hustle is worth the risk and tips on how to make it work
(18:37) Steps you can take to make your retirement accounts more diversified and well-rounded as a small business owner
(20:27) With everything going on with COVID-19, is this a good or bad time to start investing?
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/19
Free Money Mamas Guide to Investing: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
018: Have you ever considered flipping houses? What about living in them, with your kids, through the renovations? I promise, it’s not as crazy as it sounds. And If you’re just getting started in real estate investing, it could actually be a really great option for you.
In this episode, Chelsea talks with Mindy Jensen, community manager of Bigger Pockets, host of the Bigger Pockets Money Podcast, and the author of the book - How to Sell Your Home. Mindy shares how live-in flips work, what it looks like with kids, and how to sell your house for the best price—whether you’re a real estate investor or just ready for your next home.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/mindy
Free Money Mamas Guide to Investing: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
017: Have you thought about starting a side hustle but aren’t sure your idea will make any money? That it might be a giant waste of your time? Until you give yourself permission to explore the idea and get out there and try it, you can’t possibly know. And if you don’t put yourself out there, you’ll never find the perfect side hustle for you—the one that lights you up!
Whether you just want to earn a little extra cash or pursue your dream business by starting it on the side, today’s episode will walk you through 4 steps you need to take to build a profitable side hustle.
(02:17) The first step you need to take to start a profitable side hustle
(05:39) The importance of taking your time with choosing a side hustle that’s right for you
(06:48) The necessary action steps you can take today to help you choose the best side hustle for you
(14:44) Why you have to put yourself out there in order for your side hustle to succeed
(18:01) Why it’s important to make a commitment to yourself
(20:15) Chelsea recaps the 4 steps to starting a profitable side hustle
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/17
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
016: As a single mom, it can seem impossible to build wealth, let alone make enough to support your family, right? The narrative out there for single moms makes us believe that we have to struggle to support our little ones while trying to earn enough to make it by.
In this episode, Chelsea talks with Emma Johnson, founder of Wealthy Single Mommy, the world's largest platform for single moms. Emma shares how she’s empowering moms from all over to break the narrative out there that says it’s next to impossible to build wealth and security as a single parent.
Episode Highlights:
(04:31) Emma shares her backstory and how she was able to go from struggling with her finances to a wealthy single mama
(09:48) How to start to change your mindset surrounding finances and how to not feel ashamed about where you’re at right now
(17:02) How Emma encourages women in her community to release the anger towards their exes
(25:06) How to overcome mom guilt when you’re a working mama
(31:21) Emma’s 3 key pieces of advice to surviving and thriving as a single mom
(51:49) Chelsea’s Top Takeaways
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/emma
Free Money Mamas Guide to Investing: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
015: We’re all taught that we need to invest and prepare ourselves for retirement, right? But how do we do that when the world of investing seems so complicated and hard to navigate? Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered!
In this episode, Chelsea covers investing tips for beginners—what all new investors need to know to get started, costly mistakes to avoid, and easy to understand examples of investing and the power of compound interest.
Episode Highlights:
(1:51) Chelsea dives into the main reasons why you should invest
(4:34) Why investing is particularly important for us mamas
(11:20) What you need to know about the fees associated with investing & what to look out for
(15:01) How to handle the ups and downs of investing
(16:01) How and where to get started investing
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/15
Free Money Mamas Guide to Investing: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
014: Would you love to have money rolling in each month from more than just your day job? If so, now is the perfect time to start thinking about multiple streams of income. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or not, having more than one income stream is a guaranteed way to grow your wealth and have more flexibility within your finances.
In this episode, Chelsea talks with Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche, an award-winning teacher of financial education, about how multiple streams of income can provide stability in your life. She also shares some ideas to expand your income streams and tips on where you should get started.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/tiffany
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
013: Traditionally, we’re taught the way to earn an income is by going to our jobs - trading time for money, right? Well, with passive income, you can earn money without the need for continued work.
In this episode, Chelsea introduces the concept of passive income, discusses how you can get started earning more money on the side of your traditional 9-5, and her best tips to make sure you don’t get overwhelmed in the process.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/13
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
012: If investing seems out of reach, you can be certain that you’re not alone. Too often, we’re led to believe that investing has to be an all-or-nothing, one-size-fits-all approach. Today, we want to bring a level of understanding and compassion to a topic that is scary for a lot of moms.
In this episode, Chelsea talks with Bobbi Rebell, a certified financial planner and podcast host, who shares how to get started investing when you’re a beginner and how investing can help you gain long-term financial success.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/bobbi
Money Mama’s Guide to Investing: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
011: At first glance, the idea of financial growth can seem intimidating and a bit like a pipe dream, if we’re being honest. But building wealth is something each and every one of us can do, regardless of where we stand with our finances right now.
In this episode, Chelsea introduces the concept of financial growth, discusses how it’s easier to do than you may think, and shares ways you can start to grow your wealth and make the small changes that lead to big results.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/11
Free Money Mamas Guide to Investing: https://smartmoneymamas.com/mamas-investing-guide/
Free 200+ Home Business Ideas: https://smartmoneymamas.com/home-biz-ideas/
010: Having the courage to take risks and go after your biggest money goals can be exciting and scary all at the same time. And more often than not, the fear of failure is enough to keep us playing it small. But failure will always be a part of the process. Learning to embrace the failures and view them as an opportunity to learn from is the key to creating success.
In today’s episode, Jamila Souffrant - founder of Journey to Launch - shares how she knew two things from an early age: she wanted to be rich and she wanted to work for herself. We’ll explore how that mindset has led to a more profitable business and how her failures have actually made her a more successful business owner. She’ll motivate you to create your own confidence to go after your biggest goals without being afraid of the failures that may come your way.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/jamila
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
009: Earning more money means something different to each of us. Most of us are conditioned to think that if we want to make more, we need to work more. And it’s true to some degree, but hustling longer and harder will often lead to burnout if we don’t first address the mindset that has us locked in a place of underearning.
If we want to make more without necessarily working more, we have to first do the mindset work that allows us to earn more per hour of hustle. The work that lets us value our skills and ourselves enough to demand more. In today’s episode, Chelsea shares 5 mindset shifts that will help you own your value, embrace your potential for growth, and increase your earning potential.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/9
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
008: Having a healthy mindset surrounding money doesn't guarantee that financial anxiety won’t ever creep in. In fact, financial anxiety is a normal, and very common, emotion that we all experience, no matter where we are on our financial journey. Learning how to conquer that anxiety is crucial to stopping negative beliefs about our abilities and what we’re able to achieve when it comes to our money.
Lindsay Bryan-Podvin—founder of Mind Money Balance and author of the brand new book, The Financial Anxiety Solution—combines financial literacy with the emotional and psychological side of money. In today’s episode, Lindsay is going to take us on a journey into how she came to focus on financial anxiety and why deprivation-based personal finance advice isn’t for everyone. She’ll explain how you can identify your own sources of anxiety surrounding money and steps you can take to create healthier money stories.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/lindsay
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
007: Far too often, budgeting is discussed as a way to limit, restrict, or tighten down our spending. Words matter—and these ways of talking and thinking about budgeting are holding us back from having the healthy relationship with money and wealth we want.
But we all have the power to change the way we think. If we can associate budgeting with mindfulness, intention, and joy, we can change the way we feel about it. In this episode, Chelsea shares 5 strategies to help you shift your mindset to budget from a place of abundance and love.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://smartmoneymamas.com/7
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
006: Talking about money with your spouse can be tough, especially if it hasn’t gone well in the past. Having the same life goals doesn’t necessarily mean you have the same financial goals or the same ideas about how to get there.
In today's episode, Elle Martinez - founder of Couple Money and author of Jumpstart Your Marriage and Your Money - shares how managing money with your partner is all about learning to work better together as a couple in all areas of life. It’s not about blame—it’s about self-awareness and compassion and respect. If you work on understanding your own money mindset first, then your partner’s, it’s so much easier to create and stick to a plan that will take you where you both want to go.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/elle
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
005: Money mantras are powerful things - they open us up to a whole new way of seeing the world. But they aren’t magic wishes from a genie. To make them work, we have to commit to changing the habits that will then make our mantra reality.
In this episode, Chelsea talks about how to make mantras work for you, so you can use them to build your own money confidence and find new ways to pursue your goals.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/003
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
004: Any successful person will tell you that having a healthy mindset is an ongoing effort. You have to work to maintain that healthy mindset as you keep working towards becoming your best self. As we grow and change, our mindset has to grow and change with us. Rosemarie Groner grew her wildly successful blog, The Busy Budgeter, to a full-time income in 10 months and to $100K per month by year 2. But finding rapid business and financial success didn’t change her deeply ingrained money beliefs. The emotions we have around money are deep-rooted and having more money doesn’t necessarily change that. In fact, it can sometimes complicate things even more.
In this episode, Rosemarie shares how her mindset helped her grow her business so quickly and how it had to shift as she found success.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/rosemarie
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
003: For most of us, our family is our first money community so we naturally pick up money beliefs from our parents as we’re growing up. As we get older, we often find that we want to develop money beliefs that better serve us individually. Finding a new money community can be tricky, but your people are out there, and having the right money community and support system can be the secret weapon to achieving your biggest financial goals.
In this episode, Chelsea talks with Stephonee from Poorer than You, Angela from Tread Lightly, Retire Early, and Julie from Millennial Boss—all moms and bloggers that have built incredible online money communities. Together, they dive into where our early money stories came from, how that influences our lives as we became adults and moms, and how to find a positive support network if you don’t already have one.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/3
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
002: When was the last time you really paid attention to your money? Not from a place of stress or overwhelm, but from a compassionate angle that aimed to connect your values with your financial situation?
For many of us, our relationship with money is one of avoidance. We feel overwhelmed and just wish things would magically get better. We know there isn’t enough money for the things we want, but we’re not entirely sure where all our money is going. It’s scary.
That’s why Ashley Feinstein Gerstley created The 30-Day Money Cleanse. It was a way for her to reconnect with her spending and heal her relationship with money. Since her first money cleanse, she’s helped thousands of individuals through the same process, save more money, and pursue amazing goals. In today’s episode, she wants to share how you can do the same.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/Ashley
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
001: Having a healthy money mindset is a necessity—cultivating a wealthy money mindset is downright powerful. Our individual money beliefs play into every area of our financial life and getting clear on what those beliefs are and what we’d like them to be can impact our relationship with money in amazing ways.
In this episode, Chelsea introduces the concept of money mindset, how it might be holding you back, and how to start embracing its power to create a healthier relationship with money and build wealth.
Looking for more information, mama? Visit the show notes at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com/001
Free Healthy Money Mantras Worksheet: https://smartmoneymamas.com/healthy-money-mindset-workbook/
Meet your new best, money-savvy mom friend.
In this episode, you'll hear more about your host, Chelsea Brennan, and the goal of the Smart Money Mamas Show.
Chelsea is a mom of two and ex-hedge fund investor turned full-time online entrepreneur, focused on helping moms everywhere feel confident with their money and live their best lives. Together, we're going to make money fun, discussing everything from budgeting and debt to investing, career, and entrepreneurship. Not to mention, raising independent, money-savvy kids who - someday - move out of your basement.
Learn more about the show and Smart Money Mamas at https://www.smartmoneymamas.com
Keep talking money, mama!