The Money Millhouse: Recent Episodes
Ellie Kay and Bethany Bayless
The conversation gets lively and somewhat ridiculous when Ellie and Bethany share a cup of coffee (or four) over Ellie’s kitchen table. They not only have fun at The Money Millhouse, their conversations about saving money, couples communication, spend plans, super heroes and more make you feel like you are drinking coffee right along with them. Coffee, friends, money, sometimes random singing… what could be better?
Bethany and Ellie celebrate the season finale of The Money Millhouse by recapping their favorite episodes and guests.
They also reflect on fun memories of the season as well as looking ahead at exciting things to come.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/season-3-finale
In the next-to-last episode of the season, Doug Nordman returns to The Money Millhouse, but this time he is accompanied by his daughter Carol Pittner. Bethany and Ellie love having another multi-generational financial family in the Millhouse as they discuss the different approaches each family took.
Doug explains how he was able to teach Carol about money through the "Bank of Carol" and the concept of a Kid 401k. Carol also explains the main takeaways from her childhood money education and what she plans to pass down to her child. Bethany and Ellie also discuss some of the money-teaching tools Ellie used to raise Bethany, as well as what Bethany plans to continue with the next generation.
Doug and Carol share the concept behind their new book they wrote together called Raising Your Money-Savvy Family For Next Generation Financial Independence, coming in spring 2020 from ChooseFI Media.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/raising-money-savvy-kids-doug-nordman-carol-pittner
Budgeting is one of the subjects the ladies of The Money Millhouse love talking about the most—partly because it helped Ellie pay of $40,000 of debt in 2.5 years, and because it is something both ladies love implementing in their homes.
Bethany and Ellie start the show discussing their budgets and how Bethany’s is changing with the upcoming arrival of a new baby. They also touch on how their budgets have changed in the pandemic, and where they are spending less money than normal as well as where they are spending more. Bobbi Olson joins the conversation talking about how she met Ellie—and how Ellie inspired her long before they met personally.
Bobbie also talks about the joys of budgeting for her and what it has allowed her to do in her life financially. She shares her “money toolbox” and how that has helped her with her finances, as well as how strict she is about her budget when it comes to every day expenses.
For more, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/joy-of-budgeting-bobbi-olson-centsable-chat
Life doesn’t stop during a pandemic, but it certainly changes a bit! Bethany and Ellie begin this weeks episode discussing how their lives have change in the last month of sheltering in place. Bethany shares a story of kindness from a stranger in a line for Trader Joe’s.
Carol Sanford joins then to discuss how to have a Regenerative Life, which is also the title of her latest book. She approaches the topic of “heroes” in our society and a non-heroic approach to a world-changing life. She shares how to view life and career in a different way than what we are used to, including how to view life if you are a “disrupter”.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/regenerative-life-with-carol-sanford-of-the-regenerative-business-development-community
Join Ellie and Bethany in week two of their discussion with Tanja Hester about Financial Feminism.
This week they focus on women in the workplace. Ellie and Bethany give examples of situations they encounter frequently as Tanja gives suggestions on how we can better combat the current climate.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/financial-feminism-tanja-hester-our-nextz-life-fairer-cents-part-2
What is Financial Feminism and should it mean something to me?
Bethany and Ellie are joined this week in the Millhouse by Tanja Hester, author of Work Optional and creator of Our Next Life blog and The Fairer Cents podcast in a special two part series on Financial Feminism. This week they focus on Women and money in the home--specifically the roles women normally take when it comes to money.
Tanja started her podcast because she felt like there were conversations that were not being had in the financial space when it comes to the unloved playing field and economic inequality. Tanja defines feminism as women and men are equal and that we are going to create a society and systems that uphold equality, even though the word often comes with unnecessary baggage.
There are so many connections between finances and feminizes, and Tanja identifies a few of them. One of them is that men are often entrusted with "high finances" decisions, like where to invest their money, and women are often entrusted with the "low finance" decisions like how to stretch the grocery budget or how to clip coupons.
They also talk about the stigma associated with women making major financial decisions and the idea of who is the bread winner. Tanja gives words for Ellie and Bethany to use when in situations where they may need to push back on perceived sexist comments and conversations without coming across overly bossy or dominant as a woman.
Bethany and Ellie end the discussion talking about how stay at home moms have as much right and access to the money eared by their family even though they aren't the ones bringing in the money. Ellie shares how when she was a SAHM, she never felt like it was "his money" and "her money," but always "our money."
Join the conversation next week as Tanja is in the Millhouse again talking about women in business.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/financial-feminism-tanja-hester-our-nextz-life-fairer-cents-part-1
Join Bethany and Ellie as they celebrate their 100th episode of original content.
To commemorate this special occasion, they invited their other halves, Bob Kay and Travis Bayless, to the kitchen table to hear their thoughts on the podcast, their wives, and behind the scenes secrets the audience may not know.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/special-100th-episode-celebration-meet-the-husbands
Social Media has changed the way businesses market. It accompanies businesses in every marketing plan in order to stay relevant.
In the Millhouse today, we have Monica Louie who talks about how small businesses can take out ads on Facebook and Instagram at a small business budget. She shares her story about she came to be a Facebook and Instagram Ads Strategist and the benefits of using this in a marketing plan.
Monica talks about how it is a relatively low cost marketing plan for small businesses where you also have more control over who you put your ad in front of. She advises to get clear on who specifically it is that you help and to find strategies around how to meet them. She also talks about all the ways people use Facebook and Instagram ads wether it is to build an email list, sell products, or drive traffic to monetized blog posts.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/social-media-marketing-with-ads-monica-louie-flouirsh-seven-figures
We took a break in our regular content to address the Corona Virus and some things to keep in mind when it comes to your finances. This episode was recorded during a FaceBook Live as Bethany and Ellie talk about ways we are handling the pandemic both personally and financially.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/what-to-focus-on-during-a-pandemic
Sharon Epperson joins The Money Millhouse discussing how she got started in journalism and how that lead to where she is today in her career. She shares about when she was at the top of her game then had an unexpected brain aneurism that could have ended her life. She also talked about her recovery and relearning walking, talking, and even balancing a checkbook. She is learning how to say no and how to not run on fumes. It is also important to be present in the moment—wether it is sitting across the table from friends or working on your career.
Sharon also talks about her family and what part they play in her life. She shows how she stays engaged with them and manages her work/life balance. She also gives advice to Bethany as she is about to become a new mom.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/remaining-resilient-in-times-of-uncertainty
There seem to be a lot of things that we feel hold us back in business as women. Whether it be a lack of skillset, internal struggles with confidence or fear of failure, or even practical day to day things like starting a family or juggling all the things outside work.
Today in the Money Millhouse, we have Amira Alvarez of The Unstoppable Woman talking about just that. Amira says that the voice in your head, fear of failure, is the reason TO do something and not the reason not to. Bethany shares how she feels about how her business is shifting as she gets ready to have a baby, and she gets practical insight from Ellie from when she raised 5 children.
Amira reminds us that the desire to achieve what you want needs to be bigger than the fear and negative voices in your head. It is reminding yourself of your “why” and finding the accountability of other women in business. It is important to surround yourself with a community who want to make an impact in the world.
She also gives practical tips on how to find freedom in business through her Freedom Factors:
—Look at what you want and make giant, shoot-for-the-moon goals.
—Take a look at where are you now
—Figure out the gap between your goals and where you are now
—Figure out what going to get you to those goals
—Come up with a plan to get there
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/how-to-be-unstoppable-amira-alvarez-the-unstoppable-woman
We are so stoked to have Glen James from @mymillennialmoney on a special FIELD TRIP episode of The Money Millhouse!
Recently, Bethany ventured out of the Millhouse and went to Podcast Movement Evolutions in Downtown Los Angeles. While she was there, she got to catch up with our friend Glen in a fancy DTLA coffee shop whilst sipping on some delicious coffee.
As you might be able to tell from the conversation, Glen is from Australia and makes time to come to the States every year for some specific conferences.
As an entrepreneur, it may be difficult to justify an expense of a conference, especially if you aren't making money. In fact, once you add up the conference ticket, hotel, airfare, food, etc, going to a conference can be quite pricy. It also might be difficult to justify that expense to family members who might not understand.
Glen gives great insight into WHY he chooses to spend so much money to attend these events and the returns conferences can have, including gaining knowledge about a particular field that can further your business, setting aside time to dedicate to developing your business or skill, as well as the invaluable relationships that you are able to walk away with.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/conferences-glen-james-my-millennial-money
It is a special episode of The Money Millhouse discussing The Simple Dollar Awards of 2020, in which The Money Millhouse won Best Personal Finance Podcast. On this topic, Ellie and Bethany discuss some of their favorite personal ‘wins’ in the personal finance space in the last year and celebrating those little wins along the way. Bethany shares that one of her personal finance wins was traveling to 30 countries before she turned 30 completely debt free. Ellie’s personal finance little win was the “crop of babies” her children have been having and the personal finance precedence she set for them.
Adam Morgan, the Senior Editor of The Simple Dollar, joins the Millhouse team. They discuss why it is important to address personal finance as well as making it accessible for everyone. They also chat about the history of The Simple Dollar and how it emerged as a leading personal finance content provider. Recently, The Simple Dollar Awards for 2020 Awards, and Bethany and Ellie ask about a few specific awards and what The Simple Dollar was looking for when it came to awarding the Best of.
The conversation comes back around to personal wins when Adam leaves the Millhouse. Bethany explains ways they have been saving for a baby and how they were purposeful about how they asked for money from family, but she also knows not everyone is able to have the luxury of help from family. Bethany and Ellie then discuss the financial responsibility of parents and children giving/receiving gifts.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/winning-in-personal-finance-with-adam-morgan-of-the-simple-dollar
We are super excited for a new episode this week with Todd Tresidder from Financial Mentor who retired at the age of 35.
Todd comes into the Milllhouse to talk about how much money we need to retire and what retirement could mean for people (both good and bad).
We also talk about what we would like to do when we retire one day and how the definition of retirement is changing.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/how-much-money-retire-todd-tresidder-financial-mentor-2
Do you have goals you are reaching for? What will it take to get there?
Bethany and Ellie start the show discussing their guest, Don Mann, who is a retired Navy SEAL and has accomplished a great deal in his life. That leads them to discuss the kind of adventures they have done. They also discuss how they handle scary situations--wether it is bungee jumping or riding the subway in a foreign city somewhere.
Don Mann comes into the Millhouse discussing reaching beyond boundaries. He discusses his story from the very beginning--including how he knew he wanted to become a SEAL as a young man. They also talk about where people start to begin a legacy and if it is something everyone has access to. Don also gives advice about how to use that energy to reach goals--both macro and micro. He suggests looking at the big goal (macro goals), then setting a series of smaller, micro goals that will help you get to the big, macro goal.
He gives advice to those who hope to achieve the goals and reaching beyond boundaries, including having the mindset to reach the goal and staying motivated along the way. He suggests doing something every day of your life to make you faster, stronger, smarter, and most importantly, do something good for somebody.
Bethany and Ellie end the show discussing how these lessons from Don apply to finances. They ask listeners for their latest tips and stories about how they are getting faster, stronger, and smarter in their finances.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/reaching-beyond-boundaries-seal-team-six-don-mann
Are you worming towards a massive goal? How are your finances helping (or hurting) the realization of that dream?
Bethany and Ellie start the show talking about their future goals and (house) dreams. Ellie wants to eventually downsize their home and move to another state, because California is expensive. Bethany discusses how difficult living in So Cal can be and how she and friends from the Personal Finance community want to make a tiny house community. Ellie points out that major events can help hasten dreams.
Brandy Baxter, founder of Live Abundantly and author of The Three Little Divas™ Reach Your Money Goals in 3 Steps Before You Huff and Puff and Blow Your Next Paycheck Away joins the conversation giving practical steps to work towards those big-sized goals. She talks about Grandma Diva, a character in her book that is a person that everyone looks to for wisdom and Grandma Diva believe everyone deserves to buy a house. She explained how Grandma Diva believed owning a home is a legacy and a place of comfort and stability. There is a major emotional aspect associated to that dream of owning a home.
Brandi walks through an activity she created where she uses the example of a house and how it can be used as the next step in reaching goals.
For the entire worksheet, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/housing-future-dreams-brandy-baxter-live-abundantly
Women around the world are able to maintain successful businesses while also being a full time mom.
With Bethany's first child on the way, she has a few questions for Ellie, who was able to maintain a business while raising 5 kids at home. They are joined by another expert on the subject, Caroline Vencil, mompreneur, blogger, mother of four and serial side-hustler.
They discuss ways to find creative places to work during the day as well as teaching kids by also owning a business.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/mom-and-ceo
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have famously exited the royal family to pursue financial independence.
In this special episode of The Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie discuss why their decision was important and what it can teach us about the importance of Financial Freedom.
Trigger Warning: reference to abusive relationship situations and toxic workplaces
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/what-harry-and-meghan-taught-us-about-financial-freedom
2020 is a great time for women to start businesses!
Gerri Detweiler, the Education Director for NAV, joins the Millhouse to discuss female entrepreneurship in 2020. According to The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2016-17 Women’s Report, things are getting better and better for female business owners. Gerri says that women are starting businesses more than ever before. What is exciting is that we are seeing more and more women starting innovation based businesses, as well as a growth in businesses owned by women of color.
Gerri also says now more than ever, women are starting businesses because they want to instead of because they have to. Research has shown that North American women are less likely to have confidence in starting a business than that of women in other countries, but are more likely to start innovative businesses.
Gerri emphasizes that women are more willing to test the waters and try out a business because it is relatively inexpensive to do so in today's technological age. Seeing everything as an experiment, women are more inclined to try businesses, wether it is part time, full time, or even a side-hustle.
Many women are willing to seek out the information they need in order to be successful and build those relationships needed. In most businesses, there is plenty of opportunity to get a slice.
When it comes to the financial aspect of business, it is always important to keep in mind to keep a margin in your business because sometimes you won’t get paid. Gerri encourages business owners to use a small business credit card because some of those cards do not report to your personal credit. Having a small business card helps manages the high balances needed for running and business, and because the debt from a business can drag down a personal credit score.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/women-owned-businesses-in-2020-with-gerri-detweiler-of-nav
In the first new episode of the year, Ellie and Bethany discuss their New Year’s goals.
Rod Griffin from Experian joins them to discuss why buying a new car at the beginning of the year could be beneficial. They also discuss average car payments for new vs. used cars, and Bethany and Ellie share why they only buy used cars.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/new-year-new-car-with-rod-griffin-of-experian
The New Year is here! Join us for a special episode from our archives with Rachel Cruze that is perfect for this time of year. And be sure to stick around for a sneak peak into recording this episode and commentary from Ellie and Bethany.
Rachel Cruze joins the show discussing New Year’s Resolutions and some great ways to be practical about goals and goal setting. They discuss ways people can go about developing better habits, and teaching those habits to their kids as well.
Rachel shares how “more is caught than bought” when it comes to teaching kids money. She also says it is important to have tangible, “quick wins” when it comes to anyone’s money journey. Ellie talks a little bit about how she wouldn’t let her kids borrow on their allowance because it would create bad work habits, and Rachel shares her views on allowances.
Finally, Rachel talks about how to teach kids to have ‘skin in the game’ by having their kids earn their own money. Bethany tells a story about when she was a little girl and earned half of an American Girl doll and what it meant to her.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/preparing-for-a-new-year-3
It is almost the New Year, which is a great time to consider your budget. Join the Millhouse crew for a show from the archives talking about just that. And stick around for after the show to hear special commentary from Bethany and Ellie.
But do we HAVE to budget? The answer is--it is up to you!! We have Allison Baggerly from Inspired Budget in The Money Millhouse today talking about how she and her family paid off over $111K in debt (which, crazy, included budgeting!).
Tune in to The Money Millhouse this week to hear Allison's incredible story and to hear the actionable tips she gives when it comes to creating and sticking to a budget to help with your financial health!
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/budgeting-allison-baggerly-inspired-budget-2-2
It is the perfect time to find your Year End Zen again! Join Bethan and Ellie for a special episode from the Archives, and be sure to stick around for their behind-the-scenes commentary from this episode with Liz Eischen.
Bethany and Ellie open the show reflecting on the holiday season, as well as finding the year end zen in the midst of the holiday season. They give several year-end tax tips, as well. To find the link they mentioned, visit
Liz Eischen joins the Millhouse giving her best year end zen tips, including understanding the "why" behind the stress and cutting out the extras this holiday season. Ellie mentions that it might be a vicious circle when it comes to stress in finances, and Liz explores this cycle. They also discuss an article Bethany saw about taking out a personal loan to afford Christmas, and Liz gives some practical ways we can look to afford Christmas where we don't feel like we are limiting Holiday Cheer.
Traveling on a budget? Liz shows how she was able to afford to travel to 26 countries. Then we explore stress areas related to getting her Master's Degree and how to deal with that stress. She also talks about how she became a professional "dabbler", and how that has helped her learn as well as earn some extra income.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/find-your-year-end-zen-2
Merry Christmas from The Money Millhouse!
Join Bethany and Ellie for a special episode where they discuss Christmas past, present, and future!
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/christmas-family-meeting
The holiday season can be a busy time—there’s places to go, family to see, presents to buy and wrap, all while trying to have that Christmas cheer!
In the Millhouse today is Jackie Jones from Sugar and Money sharing about her Holiday Planner that helps organize all the holiday details. Not only does she talk about things to keep in mind when planning out presents or family activities, she also shares practical ways to stay on budget during the most expensive time of year.
And for Money Millhouse listeners, Jackie is sharing a special code to get a discount! Just go to sugarandmoney.com to purchase and enter code MILLHOUSE.
Do you ever find yourself saying you won’t ever be able to afford nice things? Like a nice house, or nice vacations for your family?
Today in The Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie are joined by Kristin Kaplan to talk about the scarcity versus abundance mindset. They start with the scarcity mindset. Ellie shares that where she is from in Texas, they call that “poor mouthing” as in, “We’ll never have a house like that” or “I’ll always have a boatload of student loan debt. Kristen defines scarcity mindset and gives practical ways to turn it into an abundance mindset.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/abundance-mindset-vs-the-scarcity-mindset-with-kristin-kaplan
Can you make your side hustle a full time hustle?
Deacon Hayes from popular blog Well Kept Wallet joins the Money Millhouse to discuss just that. He shares his favorite ways to make money online, things to keep in mind when taking your side hustle as a full time gig, and how he was able to make a career out of a passion that was once a hobby.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/making-money-online-with-deacon-hayes-of-well-kept-wallet
Despite the wealth of information on budgeting, saving money, and side hustling, people still have a hard time paying off their debt.
In The Money Millhouse today is Jen Smith of Modern Frugality discussing her debt free journey They discuss how many start but never finish and those who do tend to "restart" several times and Jen answers questions like:
- What was the hardest thing for you about paying off debt?
- Why do some people make it look so easy while others keep "falling off the wagon?"
- What's the first thing people should do when setting the foundation for a sustainable debt-free journey?
- What are some of the mistakes people make when starting their debt-free journey?
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/pay-off-your-debt-for-good
We interrupt our normal episodes for a special episode of Drinks with Darbi! Our good friend a frequent guest comes into the Millhouse to ask questions over some adult beverages.
The topic of today is home buying for Millennials and what to keep in mind when saving and preparing to buy a home. Bethany and Ellie answer questions like how much is an ideal down payment, what would be a good fixed interest rate, which is better--15 or 30 year mortgage, does it matter where you buy the house or should you look in a different area, and more!
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/drinks-with-darbi-home-buying
In a special pre-Veterans Day episode, Lacey Langford comes into the Millhouse to discuss life as a military brat, veteran, and military spouse. Before she arrives, Bethany and Ellie discuss their association with the military and why they chose to be called "The Money Millhouse."
They also talk about what life was like being married to/being the child of a military member. Bethany and Ellie end the show with a very emotional tribute to the veterans in their lives.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/salute-veterans-lacey-langford-military-money-show
Today we see a lot of Instagram highlight reels, and it is a real temptation to feel the pressure to keep up with what we think everyone is doing around us.
The phrase “Keeping Up With the Joneses” goes all the way back to the Boomer Generation. But it applies to Gen X and Millennials as well. Today in the Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie welcome Ronnie Kinsey, a former police office on the southside of Atlanta turned Pastor. They discuss the concept of what it means to keep up with the Joneses and alternative options in our mindset when it comes to comparison.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/keeping-up-with-the-jonses-ronnie-kinsey
According to a poll conducted in early 2018 by global staffing firm Robert Half, 39 percent of workers tried to negotiate a higher salary during their last job offer.
Forty-six percent of men negotiated salary compared to 34 percent of women. Workers ages 18-34 (45 percent) were more likely to negotiate salary than those ages 35-54 (40 percent) and 55 or older (30 percent).
Today in the Money Millhouse, we get concrete tips from Jaime Chapman on how to negotiate a salary when taking a new job. She even gives tips on how to negotiate a salary before you even get an offer.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/job-negotiation-101-jaime-chapman-begin-within
When starting or maintaining a business, your spouse may not see the ROI right away, and it could even cause tension in your relationship.
In the Millhouse today, we have Sylvia Inks of SMI Financial Coaching discuss ways we can communicate with our spouses when it comes to our business. She gives practical tips and communication techniques that can be used to repair a relationship that may be struggling with this area.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/talking-spouse-roi-business-sylvia-inks-smi-financial-coaching
We negotiate almost every day--wether it be with the manager at a store, a strong willed toddler, or a big business deal.
In The Money Millhouse today, we have Leslie H. Tayne, Esq. Founder and Head Attorney of financial debt law firm Tayne Law Group, P.C. Before she comes in, Ellie and Bethany talk about Some of their favorite negotiation techniques.
Leslie adds to the conversation when she provides her top tips on initiatives to close the deal with potential clients and the use of key negotiating skills to hone in on creating a more certain conversion ratio.
They talk about:
A) How to identify the real from the potential client, including key questions and identifiers within the first contact with a potential client.
B) Beginning the process of closing the deal and the time you need to seal the deal.
C) Identifying key factors of your business model that translate into converted potential clients.
D) Ensuring the client signs with you.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/art-of-closing-the-deal-with-leslie-h-tayne
Do you feel like you are shamed by entrepreneurs for having a 9-to-5?
The one and only Rich Jones from @paybalances joins us for this special episode LIVE from the #FinCon19 podcasting booth! Not only is Rich an awesome podcaster, he also happens to work for Google. On the show today we talk about how even with an awesome daytime job, he still feels the pressure from the entrepreneur community to be self-employed.
We cherished this conversation focused on what the real goal is: loving waking up and working every day. According to Rich, if you find that in a traditional job, then there is no need to leave that behind for the grind of entrepreneur life.
We are absolutely delighted to share this episode with you --and we may have even gotten emotional at times.
For more information, visit the show notes at https://themoneymillhouse.com/working-a-full-time-job-with-rich-jones
What the heck is dropshipping? And can it really make you money?
In the Millhouse today, we have Nicole Bernard (@nb.mktg) from the Bubbles & Biz podcast talk to us about the basics of drop shipping:
What is drop shipping?
Can you make money from it?
Is it better than an MLM (multi-level marketing)?
How do you get started?
What is the time commitment?
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/dropshipping-101-nicole-bernard-bubbles-and-biz
Are there secrets you don't know about renting?
Today in The Money Millhouse we are so excited to have Justin Pogue, the master of rental secrets!
He talks to us about how you can leverage the power you didn't know you had when it comes to negotiating rent and other strategies every renter can use to be a good neighbor.
The answer is--it is up to you!! We have Allison Baggerly from @inspiredbudget in The Money Millhouse today talking about how she and her family paid off over $111K in debt (which, crazy, included budgeting!).
Tune in to The Money Millhouse this week to hear Allison's incredible story and to hear the actionable tips she gives when it comes to creating and sticking to a budget to help with your financial health!
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/budgeting-allison-baggerly-inspired-budget-2
Welcome to Season 3 of The Money Millhouse! The team has been working hard all summer to bring you another great season of drinking coffee and hanging out around Ellie’s kitchen table.
On this special episode, Bethany and Ellie have a Family Meeting discussing the future of The Money Millhouse and some new things to expect this season.
They cover what they have been doing this summer, some goals they have bother personally and professionally, and the new direction of The Money Millhouse.
For more information, visit the show notes at http://themoneymillhouse.com/season-3-family-meeting
Have you ever thought about living Tiny?
Bethany and Ellie have a great time at Ellie's kitchen table talking about the Latte Factor. They crunch numbers when it comes to tiny expenditures and what it would look like to invest that instead.
Chris Browning joins the conversation to talk about Tiny Homes and a recent series he did on his podcast, Popcorn Finance. He discusses the reasons why people move into tiny spaces and some of the hidden expenses when it comes to owning it.
Resources: Latte Factor Calculator
Emperor Investments
The Popcorn Finance on Instagram
Popcorn Finance Podcast
Do you want to earn some extra cash? Today on the show, Tom Drake talks about side-hustling apps people can use to make money. Before he comes in, Bethany and Ellie talk about Bethany's trip to Disney World and her Star Wars 5k experience.
Bethany also offers to send a post card from her coffee subscription. Continuing their conversation from last week, Bethany and Ellie also talk about interview prep and steps you can take to ace any interview.
Tom Drake of Maplemoney.com comes into The Money Millhouse sharing apps to help save money:
Uber (drive people)
UberEats (deliver food)
AirBnb (rent your house)
Turo and Outdoorsy (rent your car/rv)
Rover (walk dalks / dogsitting)
TheIPKID and SayABC (english tutor)
Etsy (turn craft hobby to income)
Fiverr (do almost anything)
FreeeUP and Upwork (freelance)
Zazzle and CafePress (design shirts, mugs)
Teachers Pay Teachers (sell lesson plans)
Siteground (start a blog)
Sell on Amazon (MYQHJ)
Resources: Atlas Coffee Club
Maplemoney.com
Job Interview Cheat Sheet
Are you self employed and need help with taxes?
In this special episode of Drinks with Darbi, Bethany and Ellie talk about taxes when you are self-employed. They talk about setting up a separate tax account so you will be ready when it comes time to pay your taxes. They also talk about automating savings with an app like Digit or Albert, and they also suggest to not skip your quarterly taxes.
Darbi joins the Money Millhouse and they discuss the difference between deductions and write-offs. They talk about keeping expenses organized and what expenses you may not know are tax deductible. They also give several tools and apps that can help when it comes to filing taxes as well as ways to keep track of write-offs.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show discussing deductions and write-offs, but also suggest to double check your tax documents so you aren't paying more or less than you should be.
Resources:
How to Avoid a Huge Tax Bill When You're Self Employedby Carrie Smith Nickelson
Saving Apps:
Digit
Albert
Freshbooks
Expensify
Mile IQ
Quickbooks self-employed
Turbo for self-employed
Are you self employed and need help with taxes?
In this special episode of Drinks with Darbi, Bethany and Ellie talk about taxes when you are self-employed. They talk about setting up a separate tax account so you will be ready when it comes time to pay your taxes. They also talk about automating savings with an app like Digit or Albert, and they also suggest to not skip your quarterly taxes.
Darbi joins the Money Millhouse and they discuss the difference between deductions and write-offs. They talk about keeping expenses organized and what expenses you may not know are tax deductible. They also give several tools and apps that can help when it comes to filing taxes as well as ways to keep track of write-offs.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show discussing deductions and write-offs, but also suggest to double check your tax documents so you aren't paying more or less than you should be.
Resources:
How to Avoid a Huge Tax Bill When You're Self Employedby Carrie Smith Nickelson
Saving Apps:
Digit
Albert
Freshbooks
Expensify
Mile IQ
Quickbooks self-employed
Turbo for self-employed
It's Valentine's Day in August! We revisit the episode from Valentine's Day and enjoy the conversation with Jennifer McDermott again. Join us Sept 2 for brand new episodes and Season 3!
Bethany and Ellie have a special episode for Valentines Day! They share inexpensive ways for you to celebrate Valentines Day even if you aren't in a relationship! Bethany also shares how Valentine's Day is not always fun for people (she was also dumped the day before Valentine's Day once).
They welcome Jennifer McDermott, the Consumer Advocate at personal finance comparison website, finder.com. She shares fascinating statistics about Valentine's Day and the money spent not only on the holiday, but specifically on fur-babies as well.
Join the Money Millhouse for brand new episodes Sept. 2! In the meantime, enjoy this great episode from our archives with Steven M. Hughes of Know Money!
Bethany and Ellie meet at Ellie’s Kitchen Table after having gone on an inexpensive cruise to Mexico. They go over ways people can save money on travel (specifically cruises). Bethany learns how to pronounce gratuities, and how to book a cruise with shipboard credits when booking a cruise. They also tell you the best time to buy spa services on a cruise and when to buy your excursion.
Steven M. Hughes joins the Millhouse discussing the #1 money myth that he things can hold people back in life, especially from a young age. He says that money gives you the ability and options, and that the "lack of money is the root of all evil." He shares about the work he is doing to teach college students about money. He shares the biggest challenge he sees when teaching young adults, and he gives the specific goal he made when he was in college (which was increasing his credit score by 315 points).
Steven answers the question about what Millennials have learned about money from their parents. Bethany shares the difference she sees with Millennials changing jobs more often than the previous generation. Steven says how this could help when done intentionally. They shift gears to discuss credit scores and what he sees in regards to college students. He shares about the mistakes he made in college and what he did to increase his credit score when he graduated.
Steven also addresses the racial divide when it comes to the financial resources available to a household for a black family versus those available to white families. In a study done recently, the average net worth of a white family is $140k where the average for a black family was $11k. Steven works with students of color at colleges and universities with success programs for students learning financial education. Know Money, Steven's company, is actively fighting financial illiteracy in the black community though his programs and events geared to students of color. They just launched the Bank Roll Summit, which will kick off April 3rd in Columbia, South Carolina.
Resources:
viator.com
Groupon
Bankroll Summit
Know Money Inc
Brand new episodes coming September 2nd! In the meantime, listen to part two of The Book Within with Steve Laube.
Steve Laube joins The Money Millhouse for another episode centered around writing a book, this time they focus on the money side of writing a book. Steve debunks the myth that authors make a lot of money. Before he arrives in the Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie go over The Keys to a Great Proposal from SteveLaube.com, including what points should make up your book proposal when thinking of writing a book.
When Steve joins the conversation, he shares how many books he reads both for work and for fun. He debunks the myth that authors make a lot of money, and says writing a book is a tool for expanding your ideas, not a means of making money. Ellie asks what the average advance (money one is paid before the book is published) for people published with a royalty based publisher, where Steve says there is a wide range when it comes to this and it depends on the publisher. He also gives practical examples of how someone can use a book to make money that may not be directly from book sales (i.e. speaking, back of room book sales at events, periodicals and magazines, etc.). Ellie also shares another income stream called Brand Ambassador work, which also lead to media. All of these streams are because of the initial book. They then talk about tax deductions and expenses that authors can count towards their taxes and what writers can forget they can write off (with the reminder to continually check with your tax expert to make sure you are making the best moves when it comes to your taxes and being above the law).
Ellie remembers a saying Steve said early in her career is the idea of goodwill coin (16:52), and how people can be branded as “hard to work with.” They also discuss practical ways we can earn goodwill coin by being respectful of people’s time and expertise. They also clarify what Ellie meant when
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about “goodwill coin” again. They also talk about ways they each help each other in the space and maintaining goodwill coin when sending emails, especially when it comes to burning bridges or using up all their goodwill coin. They also finish the last few pieces of The Keys to a Great Proposal.
Resources:
stevelaube.com
preditorsandeditors.com
In this special show from the archives, Bethany and Ellie discuss how some people’s goal for 2019 is to write a book. Since Ellie has written 15 books, she has a little bit of expertise in this area. Bethany asks if people should write a book because they want to make a lot of money, and Ellie explains why that is a misconception. Bethany explains how she has known their guest since she was 8 years old. Ellie then talks about the “why” someone should write a book, and Bethany explains how she failed her childhood dream of being published at the age of 13. She also talks about the title of a book she wanted to write a few years ago that isn’t the best idea for a book title. Steve Laube, literary agent and the president of The Steve Laube Agency, comes into the Millhouse talking abut the unsolicited book proposal Ellie had sent over to his publishing house 20 years ago, and then how they became friends. Ellie asks Steve a very difficult (trick) question, and Bethany asks Steve how long he has been in the business. He explains his journey to becoming a literary agent and founding his own agency. Steve talks about where people start when they want to start writing a book. He also explains what an agent does to help direct their career, and gives valuable resources to give practical help to the writer. Steve talks about a proposal, and the difference between a proposal for a fiction vs. non-fiction book. They also talk about the difference between self-publishing and royalty based (aka traditional) publisher. Steve gives a warning about self-publishing services, and gives a resource that will help you find the right people to help you in the self-publishing world.
Bethany and Ellie end the show inviting The Money Millhouse next week for part 2 of writing a book because there is such a wealth of information when it comes to this topic. Ellie discusses what should come first: the publisher or an agent and how all the magic happens at writers conferences. Bethany talks about how conferences fueling the fire of passion and motivation. She also tells the story of their producer/editor, Darbi, and how the investment of a conference lead to a job, and even changed her life.
Resources:
stevelaube.com
preditorsandeditors.com
Bethany and Ellie start the show talking about Goal Setting and how we should start thinking about 2019’s goals right now. Ellie says that 92% of people never achieve their goals, and Bethany says she is apart of the other 8% that has. They discuss how those who accomplish their goals set specific goals that are challenging (but are not too hard), and are passionate about their goals to committed to the end. They also discuss that people who accomplish their goals use feedback to stay on track, and that receiving feedback doesn’t mean that you are a terrible person. Instead, feedback helps us get better.
Chris Hogan joins the show discussing the importance of investing, and thinking about the future. He is hearing from a lot of people who wish they could go back and do things for themselves in the past. He wants to help people understand that small steps now can give themselves an advantage for down the road. He also gives great tips for having a plan when it comes to money by “giving every dollar a name.” Chris talks about how money will listen, and how we can have the right kind of knowledge to control it. They revisit the “why” of saving and how to respond when life and emergencies happen. If we aren’t prepared for emergencies, it can steal your joy, which is why Chris stresses the importance of an Emergency Fund. He walks through what would have happened if Bethany didn’t take from her emergency fund a couple months ago, and how it could have lead to more stress.
Chris gives practical advice of how we can take our financial pulse. He advises having a plan during the holiday season so we don’t have a holiday hangover. Set a holiday budget and assign a dollar amount to each person. When the money is gone, you are done—go home. Chris also gives a sneak peak into his new book, Everyday Millionaire. Chris also gives great advice to couples and discussing money with a spouse, including dreaming together.
Resources:
Emperor Investments is a female led, online investing platform. With the help of technology, this platform custom builds you equity portfolios that are designed to help achieve your goals. To learn more and get your first six months of automated investing for free, visit themoneymillhouse.com/emperor.
To order Chris Hogan's new book in time for the New Year, visit https://www.chrishogan360.com or find him on Amazon.
Bethany and Ellie return from a break for their very first show of 2019. They are very excited and optimistic for the New Year, and they share 6 Ways to Beware and Prepare for the New Yearwith The Money Millhouse!
Rachel Cruze joins the show discussing New Year’s Resolutions and some great ways to be practical about goals and goal setting. They discuss ways people can go about developing better habits, and teaching those habits to their kids as well. Rachel shares how “more is caught than bought” when it comes to teaching kids money. She also says it is important to have tangible, “quick wins” when it comes to anyone’s money journey. Ellie talks a little bit about how she wouldn’t let her kids borrow on their allowance because it would create bad work habits, and Rachel shares her views on allowances. She also talks about how to teach kids to have ‘skin in the game’ by having their kids earn their own money. Bethany tells a story about when she was a little girl and earned half of an American Girl doll and what it meant to her.
Resources:
6 Ways to Beware and Prepare for the New Year
National Consumer Credit Counseling Service
NFCC
Military Family Advisory Network and MilCents
Join the Money Millhouse for one of their favorite episodes of season 2. Be sure to come back September 2 for all new episodes and season 3 of The Money Millhouse!
Ellie and Bethany start the show talking about the idea that money can buy happiness. Even though people know money cannot really buy happiness, many people live like it can. Bethany shares techniques she and her husband use when it comes to Bethany’s impulse buys, as well as brands Ellie chooses to splurge on.
Kiné Corder, a best selling author, international speaker, and psychotherapy specializing in financial therapy, joins The Money Millhouse discussing financial therapy. She shares the designations a financial counsellor must have to help in this area, as well as what qualifies someone to be a financial therapist. Bethany asks about the marriage aspect of this topic, and Kiné explores the past money history and programming everyone has when coming into a marriage.
Kiné also explores money personalities/mentality people are prone to, and if people are able to change. She shows Ellie and Bethany techniques people can implement in order to play on strengths in a relationship, including Awareness, “Money Day,” “No Money Day,” and having a Money Challenge or Competition. They end their conversation on the topic of prosperity, and what things can block a prosperity mindset.
Resources: Money Mentality Quiz and Video from Kiné
Prosperity Report “Love & Money” podcast
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talkingby Susan Cain
The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lastsby Gary Chapman
Enjoy a favorite episode of Season 2 with Roger Whitney, AKA the Retirement Answer Man! Stick around till the end for a special behind the scenes look at what it was like recording this episode!
Bethany and Ellie have a cup of coffee at Ellie Kay's table discussing the season and how it is Bethany loves being cold this time of year. Bethany and Ellie remember a time when Ellie purchased a red coat in Canada, and how she didn't tell the truth in a certain instance. Ellie and Bethany discuss fears and how it can stop us from doing what we want to do. They talk about things that had scared them recently that they had to do, including Ellie connecting in Istanbul and almost missing her flight.
Roger Whitney, The Retirement Answer Man, joins the Millhouse discussing retirement. Ellie challenges Roger to give the answer to retirement in 30 words or less. Roger explains it is important to not check out of life when it comes to Retirement. He encourages Bethany and Ellie to look at it in a new way that may not be traditional. Roger explains why he is excited for the Millennial Generation, and how they are able to change their perspective when it comes to retirement. He gives a practical way that financial advice industry has not caught up to the way we live our lives right now. He gives the two most important investments we could make in our future that could open up a lot of flexibility. They also talk about student loan debt and different ways to invest in our skills. Bethany asks if traditional saving for retirement is still important, and Roger gives reasons why we shouldn’t ignore that.
Resources:
Managing Your Lifestyle Workbook
Be sure to stick around after this special episode to hear the behind the scenes look with The Money Millhouse team!
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about some of the great deals they received from the Orlando Outlets, which they explain are things they splurged on but stayed in their budget. They give the secret to having name brands like Coach, but not paying Coach prices. They then magically transport to the FinCon18 USAA Podcasting booth in Orlando, where they talk to Cristin Gray from USAA.
With Cristin, they discuss Money Movement, which is moving money from one account to another account, wether it is a friend, a merchant, buying a home, etc. Cristin helps Bethany and Ellie with a ‘hypothetical ’ situation of moving money from person to person, as well as mobile pay options. Bethany remembers how she was able to pay for a transaction with her Apple Watch, and Cristin explains what USAA is doing to keep up with the digital capabilities that are emerging. She also explains data aggregation and how USAA’s members are able to securely interact with their accounts. They talk about ways they keep their members money safe, as well as the requirements it takes to be a USAA member (including how many civilians are a part of that community).
Bethany and Ellie return to The Money Millhouse to talk about their USAA podcast booth experience from FinCon18, as well as sharing their total savings from the shopping spree they talked about earlier. They share their love for USAA and the reasons why they are members for life. They also talk about managing next steps and what they are doing to organize their post conference opportunities—including how long to wait before contacting people they have met at a conference. Bethany talks about the things she is working on post-FinCon, and explains what a one-sheet is. They discuss the importance of a debrief and an action sheet after a big event, and both Bethany and Ellie reveal their top 3 action items they are working on post-FinCon.
Resources:
Zelle
Service and Ink featuring 3 of Ellie's Sons
While The Money Millhouse is on hiatus, enjoy a special episode from our archives with Joseph Hogue. Stick around for 5 minutes behind the scenes look at the making of the episode from Ellie and Bethany's perspectives!
Bethany and Ellie begin the show talking about the fresh pumpkin pie Bethany made for The Money Millhouse. They continue their conversation discussing investments. Bethany is under the impression that Millennials have a hard time investing—especially when it comes to having money to invest. Ellie gives good tips on how to live within your means and the meaning of the millionaire next door. Bethany shares a close and personal story of where she is in her finical journey and how she has cut back in their home budget.
Joseph Hogue joins the Millhouse discussing the basics of investment. He talks more about why it is difficult for Millennials have a hard time investing. He discusses the importance of investing and what it means to be financially free. He gives some practical ways of finding the leeway in someone’s budget in order to invest, and he explores the different age groups and how investing changes as someone gets older. He explains that the stock market isn’t the only way to invest as well as some examples of other places you can invest your money. He talks about the investing habits of the wealthy and what investments can give a higher return. Bethany and Ellie end the show discussing side hustles and ways to make some extra cash in order to invest.
Bethany and Ellie are excited to welcome Bobbi Rebell, a professional journalist, broadcaster, author, and podcaster, into the Money Millhouse. She is the host of the Financial Grownup and the co-host of Money in the Morning podcast with Joe Saul-Sehy. Before she comes to the kitchen table, Bethany and Ellie discuss when they first felt like an adult and the impostor syndrome that goes along with being a grown-up. Bethany also teaches Ellie the meaning of YOLO.
When Bobbi comes into the Millhouse, she helps Bethany and Ellie out with what it looks like to be a Financial Grownup. They also talk about situations where parents bailing kids out financially may hurt them and not help them. They also touch on how children learn from their financial group parents, learning not to judge others for their money choices, and the importance of having a (balanced) delayed gratification.
On this episode of The Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie talk about purchasing homes and what Bethany is learning as she goes through Financial Peace University with her husband, Travis.
They are joined by Wendy Mays, mompreneur, former criminal defense attorney - turned Realtor - turned Podcaster and Blogger. She hosts the top-ranked podcast House of FI with her better-half, Curtis, that aims to inspire and encourage families of all shapes and demographics to achieve financial independence by teaching them to become debt free, build wealth, and increase their income. They talk about how someone (like Wendy) can reach Financial Independence by leaving the lucrative life of being an attorney and with six kids in tow. They also talk about ways not only to cut back on expenses, but to make more income as well.
Bethany and Ellie have a great time at Ellie's kitchen table talking about the Latte Factor. They crunch numbers when it comes to tiny expenditures and what it would look like to invest that instead.
Chris Browning joins the conversation to talk about Tiny Homes and a recent series he did on his podcast, Popcorn Finance. He discusses the reasons why people move into tiny spaces and some of the hidden expenses when it comes to owning it.
Bethany and Ellie come into The Money Millhouse happy and excited for a new episode! Also at the kitchen table is Tiffany Aliche who discusses a new study from Intuit on prosperity. Before she comes in, they talk about their definitions of prosperity and ways to achieve prosperity.
Tiffany Aliche joins the conversation on prosperity by sharing the study conducted by Intuit because they want prosperity to be accessible for everyone. As a part of that, they talk about starting a business and how it is a direct line to prosperity. They talk about financial role models, and how investing time will always have a return--wether it is being successful in your endeavors or learning something for the future. Tiffany shares a story about how it is more important what you do in front of your children and not necessarily what you tell them. They end the conversation with a hopeful statistic that a majority of Americans believe prosperity is in their future.
Resources:
#ProsperityforAll
Intuit.com/prosperitystudy
Today on the show, Tom Drake talks about side-hustling apps people can use to make money. Before he comes in, Bethany and Ellie talk about Bethany's trip to Disney World and her Star Wars 5k experience.
Bethany also offers to send a post card from her coffee subscription. Continuing their conversation from last week, Bethany and Ellie also talk about interview prep and steps you can take to ace any interview.
Tom Drake of Maplemoney.com comes into The Money Millhouse sharing apps to help save money:
Uber (drive people)
UberEats (deliver food)
AirBnb (rent your house)
Turo and Outdoorsy (rent your car/rv)
Rover (walk dalks / dogsitting)
TheIPKID and SayABC (english tutor)
Etsy (turn craft hobby to income)
Fiverr (do almost anything)
FreeeUP and Upwork (freelance)
Zazzle and CafePress (design shirts, mugs)
Teachers Pay Teachers (sell lesson plans)
Siteground (start a blog)
Sell on Amazon (MYQHJ)
Bethany and Ellie start the show discussing how important interviews can chance the course of your life. They also talk about the different kinds of interviews, wether they be for a job, or an acceptance into a college or university.
They are joined by Patrice Washington, founder of Seek Wisdom, Find Wealth. They discuss the “mindset approach” to personal finance, how to define the term “wealth,” and what's a common pitfall for people when it comes to personal finance.
This week in The Money Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie are joined by Ryan Inman, the host of The Financial Residency podcast. Before he comes into the Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie discuss the cost of higher education. They discuss the ideas of getting another degree and what career they would have had in another life.
When considering returning to school, there are other things to take into account like time, your family, who will take care of your children, emotional energy, relationships, hobbies, buying a home, etc.
There are also benefits of going back to school can be that you can earn more income, you could change career fields, following your passion, the desire to help people, etc.
Ryan comes to Ellie's kitchen table to discuss the student loans associated with major degrees like becoming a doctor. Ryan works with physicians across the country who have an average of $283k in debt. This often means delaying having kids, delaying having homes, etc. He also says that debt can get out of the hole if they don't let other bad financial habits get in the way. He also discusses ways to get over the student loan crisis and crunches the numbers when it comes to paying those loans back over time.
Bethany and Ellie end the show discussing the financial difference between becoming a doctor or a lawyer, and which degree has a better return on the investment. They also discuss the specific top 10 law schools when it comes to the best ROI.
Resources:
The Financial Residency Podcast
financialresidency.com/studentloan/
Bethany and Ellie open the show discussing ways to invest your time that will have the best return on your investment. Robert Shaye joins them to talk about investments, including how old he was when he first started investing, the different between a ROTH and Traditional IRAs, and the work he is doing with his brand, Fireside Finances.
Resources:
Fireside Finances
How to Spend Time in Ways That Make You Happy from Business Insider
Bethany and Ellie talk about ways your finances can spark joy--like cutting the cable, the different sorts of television subscription, how to enjoy free activities, and paying off debt.
They are joined by Joy Liu, a Certified Financial Trainer and military spouse. She heads up Trainer Academy for The Financial Gym and shares the benefits of this program for people looking to learn more about finances. They touch on savings, debt repayment, navigating student loan debt, and goal setting. She also talks about why she shifted in her career from working in advertising to working in the financial education space as a military spouse.
Resources mentioned in show:
Atlas Coffee Club
The Financial Gym
The Financial Gym's Instagram
Wine & Learns
Bethany and Ellie take a road trip to San Antonio to talk with Christine Kirkley from AMVETS. Before they get there, Bethany and Ellie talk about Women's History Month and what it means to each of them. They celebrate being strong females and share their role models portrayed throughout history.
They then meet up with Christine Kirkley works for AMVETS or American Veterans and is an accomplished and knowledgeable executive with over sixteen years of experience in non-profit development, marketing and fundraising. She has a proven track record in managing staff, developing new business, meeting revenue and fundraising goals. She’s skilled in developing donor retention programs and growing new and existing corporate relationships. At AMVETS she takes a particular interest in helping women who currently serve in the military and female veterans as well.
Ellie and Bethany open the show talking about what a pour over is, and why Bethany keeps singing phrases around the house. They also discuss how to avoid getting scammed in life and business. They then welcome Kerry Hannon into the Millhouse to talk about how she created a business in mid-life.
Kerry talks about how she shifted careers and how pulling from her previous network helped her when she launched her business. She talks about how she was always freelancing on the side while she was a full-time employee. Having that base behind her was important when she was ready to take the leap. They also talk about the importance of diversifying your income and the challenges that come with starting business later down the road. The key steps in shifting into a new direction is to be financially fit, physically fit, and spiritually fit. Kerry talks about the importance of having a place of centering and a de-compressing time to shift your brain.
Kerry discusses wether or not you should have a business partner and says it depends on the individual. Some people are wired to work on their own, and sometimes a partner is important to give you balance so you can tap into your skillset. She also warns against jumping into a business relationship, and talks about how women are especially good at working as partners. Ellie and Bethany talk about their working relationship and how they balance when it comes to their business. Kerry also discusses ways to avoid getting scammed in business. She also encourages people to do the job firstly apprentice or volunteer to find out if it is something you really want to do.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show continuing to the discussion about avoiding scams in business. Bethany also shares the story about how she almost got scammed by a Golden Doodle.
Bethany and Ellie kick off the show talking about an article written by Michael Peggs for The Muse called 5 Reasons to Consider Changing Careers. They discuss different ways to pronounce epitome before introducing Rebecca Wiggins, the director of the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE).
Rebecca joins the conversation sharing her reasons she loves waking up in the morning and working for AFCPE. She also tells more about the organization, how she got involved with them, and their goals for the company. AFCPE believes that all people, regardless of income level or background, have access to the highest level of professionalism just like we have come to expect for people with wealth. She also talks about what an AFC (Accredited Financial Counselor) is and how people are able to get that certification, and how it was designed as a way for Military spouses to have a portable career.
Rebecca hasn't always been the director of AFCPE. Before she started this position, Rebecca went to school for music performance. She was always interested in social work fields. She ended up getting into education and outreach in the non-profit world through the arts. Those skills of program management translated well into the AFCPE world. She has held many different hats along the way and continued to grow into being the Executive Director.
Resources:
Coffee of the Day—JavaPresse
AFCPE
FINRA Investor Education Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship
5 Reasons to Consider Changing Careers
In this special episode of Drinks with Darbi, Bethany and Ellie talk about taxes when you are self-employed. They talk about setting up a separate tax account so you will be ready when it comes time to pay your taxes. They also talk about automating savings with an app like Digit or Albert, and they also suggest to not skip your quarterly taxes.
Darbi joins the Money Millhouse and they discuss the difference between deductions and write-offs. They talk about keeping expenses organized and what expenses you may not know are tax deductible. They also give several tools and apps that can help when it comes to filing taxes as well as ways to keep track of write-offs.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show discussing deductions and write-offs, but also suggest to double check your tax documents so you aren't paying more or less than you should be.
Resources:
How to Avoid a Huge Tax Bill When You're Self Employed by Carrie Smith Nickelson
Saving Apps:
Digit
Albert
Freshbooks
Expensify
Mile IQ
Quickbooks self-employed
Turbo for self-employed
Bethany and Ellie meet at Ellie’s Kitchen Table after having gone on an inexpensive cruise to Mexico. They go over ways people can save money on travel (specifically cruises). Bethany learns how to pronounce gratuities, and how to book a cruise with shipboard credits when booking a cruise. They also tell you the best time to buy spa services on a cruise and when to buy your excursion.
Steven M. Hughes joins the Millhouse discussing the #1 money myth that he things can hold people back in life, especially from a young age. He says that money gives you the ability and options, and that the "lack of money is the root of all evil." He shares about the work he is doing to teach college students about money. He shares the biggest challenge he sees when teaching young adults, and he gives the specific goal he made when he was in college (which was increasing his credit score by 315 points).
Steven answers the question about what Millennials have learned about money from their parents. Bethany shares the difference she sees with Millennials changing jobs more often than the previous generation. Steven says how this could help when done intentionally. They shift gears to discuss credit scores and what he sees in regards to college students. He shares about the mistakes he made in college and what he did to increase his credit score when he graduated.
Steven also addresses the racial divide when it comes to the financial resources available to a household for a black family versus those available to white families. In a study done recently, the average net worth of a white family is $140k where the average for a black family was $11k. Steven works with students of color at colleges and universities with success programs for students learning financial education. Know Money, Steven's company, is actively fighting financial illiteracy in the black community though his programs and events geared to students of color. They just launched the Bank Roll Summit, which will kick off April 3rd in Columbia, South Carolina.
Bethany and Ellie have a special episode for Valentines Day! They share inexpensive ways for you to celebrate Valentines Day even if you aren't in a relationship! Bethany also shares how Valentine's Day is not always fun for people (she was also dumped the day before Valentine's Day once).
They welcome Jennifer McDermott, the Consumer Advocate at personal finance comparison website, finder.com. She shares fascinating statistics about Valentine's Day and the money spent not only on the holiday, but specifically on fur-babies as well.
Bethany and Ellie open this week’s episode discussing philanthropy and giving back. They go over the scientific studies that show it is better for you physically to give back. They stress that it is not just volunteering, but it is also better to be kind. Sometimes you can’t give money, but you can also ways share a smile.
Joining the conversation is Jay Lucas, the founder of the Lucas Group. He says the thing he is most proud of, and he finds the most reward in, giving back. He is highly involved with an organization called Children of Fallen Patriots, which is an organization that pays for the college education of any child who loses a parent in military service. They will pay for whatever it takes to make that child success, and they have taken care of over 1,150 kids. Out of eery dollar, $.98 goes to the children of the fallen patriots, which allows all these students to graduate debt-free. He also gives ways people can give help those who have lost a parent in the military.
Resources:
fallenpatriots.org
newhampshiresupportsfallenpatriots.com
—Guest: Grant Sabatier —Topic: Millennial Money and multigenerational families under the same roof Description
Bethany and Ellie meet at Ellie’s Kitchen Table and discuss how Ellie is 30% French instead of Spanish. They also talk about what Blackish, Everybody Loves Raymond and Jane the Virgin all have in common: multigenerational families under the same roof. They discuss the article by Mary Beth Sturgon called Discussing Financial Tips for Multigenerational Living. When multiple generations live under the same roof, they should discuss making house rules about paying for mortgage, rent, and other assets, utilities and monthly expenses, medical expenses, as well as household division of responsibility.
Grant Sabatier comes into the Millhouse discussing how he defines who is qualified to be a millionaire. Grant became a millionaire in 5 years after working several side-hustles, including having a moving company, watching his neighbors cat, walking dogs, renovating VW vans, and flipping domains on the internet. He tried to make at least an extra $50 a day so he could invest that money.
Bethany loves that Grant had such diverse interests in making money, and Grant suggests always focusing on goals. His goal was to become financially independent, so he was side-hustling to invest. His mindset was to invest as much money as he could.
It has never been easier in history to make as much money as we can. Whatever you want more money for, there are more opportunities to make more money. Grant says it is so much easier to make money doing what you love because the ROI over the long term more happiness along the way.
Grant talks about millennials and their money habits. He distinguishes the difference between older and younger millennials, and says both categories are questioning the “success narrative,” which can be a great financial decision in the long run. Grant also mentions that Millennials are the new burnout generation, and that work/life balance is definitely important.
They end the conversation talking about Grant’s new book Financial Freedom: A Proven Path to All the Money You Will Ever Need, and Grant explains how much money IS “all the money you will ever need.”
Bethany and Ellie end the show playing a game “Two Truths and a Lie.”
Resources
Financial Freedom Book
Millennial Money
"I am your mother" SNL Video
USDA Cost of Food at Home
—Guest:Danielle Roberts —Topic: The importance of Medicare for the younger generation and Keeping above the law when you have a side-hustle Description
Ellie tells Bethany a story about a billboard she saw saying, “Stay our of Jail this year”. This lead to a great conversation about how to stay on the right side of the law when it comes to your business or side hustle. If you have a side hustle or small business, this is a great episode to answer a lot of questions you may have, including 6 points on how to set up your side hustle and keep it legal.
Danielle Roberts joins the conversation to discuss the important subject (that may not seem exciting): Medicare. She specifically speaks on why Millennials should care about Medicare, because it seems to be in the distant future for their generation. She explains what Medicare is, as well as who it covers. She also talks about how recent tax cuts affect Medicare, and what this specifically means for Millennials. Danielle discusses the tweaks Medicare can be doing right now to change the course of Medicare’s future, including allowing for longer life expectancy. They discuss how Boomer’s refusing to retire can possibly affect Medicare and what this means for the future of Millennials. They cover how more and more people are bringing their kids into this conversation because many adult children are helping out their parents with costs in their old age. She says one of the biggest challenges for people who are new to Medicare is having no knowledge about how a national health insurance works. She also shares several resources that people can take advantage of before they begin to make decisions when it comes to Medicare. Danielle recommends starting early when it comes to educating yourself when it comes to these issues, instead of 6-12 months before you age into medicare.
Resources:
Lexington Law Blog
Boomerbenefits.com
Medicare Youtube videos
Medicare.gov
Freshbooks
The Business Boutique
Small Business Administration
Program SCORE
—Guest:Steve Laube —Topic: The Money Behind Writing a Book Description
Steve Laube joins The Money Millhouse for another episode centered around writing a book, this time they focus on the money side of writing a book. Steve debunks the myth that authors make a lot of money. Before he arrives in the Millhouse, Bethany and Ellie go over The Keys to a Great Proposal from SteveLaube.com, including what points should make up your book proposal when thinking of writing a book.
When Steve joins the conversation, he shares how many books he reads both for work and for fun. He debunks the myth that authors make a lot of money, and says writing a book is a tool for expanding your ideas, not a means of making money. Ellie asks what the average advance (money one is paid before the book is published) for people published with a royalty based publisher, where Steve says there is a wide range when it comes to this and it depends on the publisher. He also gives practical examples of how someone can use a book to make money that may not be directly from book sales (i.e. speaking, back of room book sales at events, periodicals and magazines, etc.). Ellie also shares another income stream called Brand Ambassador work, which also lead to media. All of these streams are because of the initial book. They then talk about tax deductions and expenses that authors can count towards their taxes and what writers can forget they can write off (with the reminder to continually check with your tax expert to make sure you are making the best moves when it comes to your taxes and being above the law).
Ellie remembers a saying Steve said early in her career is the idea of goodwill coin, and how people can be branded as “hard to work with.” They also discuss practical ways we can earn goodwill coin by being respectful of people’s time and expertise. They also clarify what Ellie meant when
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about “goodwill coin” again. They also talk about ways they each help each other in the space and maintaining goodwill coin when sending emails, especially when it comes to burning bridges or using up all their goodwill coin. They also finish the last few pieces of The Keys to a Great Proposal.
Resources:
stevelaube.com
preditorsandeditors.com
Bethany and Ellie discuss how some people’s goal for 2019 is to write a book. Since Ellie has written 15 books, she has a little bit of expertise in this area. Bethany asks if people should write a book because they want to make a lot of money, and Ellie explains why that is a misconception. Bethany explains how she has known their guest since she was 8 years old. Ellie then talks about the “why” someone should write a book, and Bethany explains how she failed her childhood dream of being published at the age of 13. She also talks about the title of a book she wanted to write a few years ago that isn’t the best idea for a book title.
Steve Laube, literary agent and the president of The Steve Laube Agency, comes into the Millhouse talking abut the unsolicited book proposal Ellie had sent over to his publishing house 20 years ago, and then how they became friends. Ellie asks Steve a very difficult (trick) question, and Bethany asks Steve how long he has been in the business. He explains his journey to becoming a literary agent and founding his own agency. Steve talks about where people start when they want to start writing a book. He also explains what an agent does to help direct their career, and gives valuable resources to give practical help to the writer. Steve talks about a proposal, and the difference between a proposal for a fiction vs. non-fiction book. They also talk about the difference between self-publishing and royalty based (aka traditional) publisher. Steve gives a warning about self-publishing services, and gives a resource that will help you find the right people to help you in the self-publishing world.
Bethany and Ellie end the show inviting The Money Millhouse next week for part 2 of writing a book because there is such a wealth of information when it comes to this topic. Ellie discusses what should come first: the publisher or an agent and how all the magic happens at writers conferences. Bethany talks about how conferences fueling the fire of passion and motivation. She also tells the story of their producer/editor, Darbi, and how the investment of a conference lead to a job, and even changed her life.
Resources:
stevelaube.com
preditorsandeditors.com
Bethany and Ellie return from a break for their very first show of 2019. They are very excited and optimistic for the New Year, and they share 6 Ways to Beware and Prepare in the New Year with The Money Millhouse!
Rachel Cruze joins the show discussing New Year’s Resolutions and some great ways to be practical about goals and goal setting. They discuss ways people can go about developing better habits, and teaching those habits to their kids as well. Rachel shares how “more is caught than bought” when it comes to teaching kids money. She also says it is important to have tangible, “quick wins” when it comes to anyone’s money journey. Ellie talks a little bit about how she wouldn’t let her kids borrow on their allowance because it would create bad work habits, and Rachel shares her views on allowances. She also talks about how to teach kids to have ‘skin in the game’ by having their kids earn their own money. Bethany tells a story about when she was a little girl and earned half of an American Girl doll and what it meant to her.
—Guest: Ron Anderson —Topic: Creative ways to make money and tax tips Description Join Ellie and Bethany in this special rerun of Taxes Can Be Fun with Ron Anderson! Stick around for the end of the show where Bethany and Ellie share some of their favorite behind-the-scenes moments!
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about creative ways to earn more than you spend. Ron Anderson comes into the Money Millhouse and discusses taxes and how they could be fun. He gives some of his favorite year-round tax tips and some good general advice for a taxpayer dealing with their taxes. He suggests someone buys a home as a foundation to build their financial freedom. He also says to not spend money unless it is going to be productive when it comes to small businesses, and what to keep in mind if a small business is ever to get audited. He gives tips for keeping receipts and playing “show and tell” with them.
They transition into Ron’s other profession: being a professional magician. He shares some of the stories of some of the famous people he has met along the way, including David Copperfield and Steve Martin. He talks about The Magic Castle, of which he is a member. He explains how to make a hobby into a business—understanding marketing, sales techniques, etc. He gives advice to anyone looking to start a business like this—including buying business cards and keeping records in order. He shares why he always asks for letters of recommendation, and being open to constructive feedback in order to get better. He shares how he manages his creativity and his process of comedy and magic, and why he writes every creative idea down on paper.
Resources:
—Sell stuff on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace
—Sell Pictures
—Rent a room out in your house
—Sell your skills
—Teach classes online (Skillshare, Udemy, Teachable)
—Become a field agent (Field Agent app)
—Become a secret shopper
—Take surveys online and get paid for them (Swagbucks)
—Babysit for busy professionals (care.com)
—Join direct selling company like Arbonne or Avon
—Write music reviews (slicethepie.com)
—Be a Lyft or Uber driver
—Deliver food (Grubhubor Postmates)
—Clean out your closet and sell online (Poshmark)
—Become a dog walker (Rover, Wag)
—Guest: Chris Browning —Topic: Going out of your comfort zone and recap of FinCon18 Description Join Ellie and Bethany on a special Holiday remix! Stay tuned till the end of the show for a brief behind the scenes look with The Money Millhouse Team!
Bethany and Ellie open the show Discussing their experience at FinCon18 and how they got of their comfort zones. Ellie shares about how writing a book was one of the things she did that was out of her comfort zone, as well as taking improv classes to improve the podcast. Bethany shares about how moving to England was out of her comfort zone, as well as online dating (where she eventually met her husband). Bethany also went out of her comfort zone when she emceed FinCon18 in front of 2,000 people, and she shares the things she discovered while doing so. They also discuss the Imposter Syndrome everyone can feel when going out of their comfort zone.
Bethany and Ellie then travel to Orlando to interview Chris Browning from the Popcorn Finance podcast LIVE from the podcast booth at FinCon18. He describes the feeling when he won the Plutus Award for Best New Personal Finance Podcast (beating out The Money Millhouse). Chris shares what gave him the idea for Popcorn Finance and why he chose a short-format show. He also talks about his day job of being an analyst and what he hopes to one day do with his side-hustle of his podcast. He explains why he is suited to be an entrepreneur as well as his favorite financial advice for fellow entrepreneurs. He also gives specific advice to Ellie’s millennial kids and shares a financial fail he was able to bounce back from.
Bethany and Ellie finish up the show back in The Money Millhouse discussing the Seven Benefits of Laughter found on Gaiam. They explain how a healthy mindset and body can help save money over time, as found on the episode of The Money Millhouse with Dana Demetre.
Resources: Seven Health Benefits of Laughter
—Guest: Liz Eischen —Topic: De-stressing at Christmas and Year End Tax End Tips Description Bethany and Ellie open the show reflecting on the holiday season, as well as finding the year end zen in the midst of the holiday season. They give several year-end tax tips, as well. To find the link they mentioned, visit
Liz Eischen joins the Millhouse giving her best year end zen tips, including understanding the "why" behind the stress and cutting out the extras this holiday season. Ellie mentions that it might be a vicious circle when it comes to stress in finances, and Liz explores this cycle. They also discuss an article Bethany saw about taking out a personal loan to afford Christmas, and Liz gives some practical ways we can look to afford Christmas where we don't feel like we are limiting Holiday Cheer. They also discuss traveling on a budget and how Liz was able to afford to travel to 26 countries. Liz also explores stress areas related to getting her Master's Degree and how to deal with that stress. She also talks about how she became a professional "dabbler", and how that has helped her learn as well as earn some extra income.
Resources:
Emperor Investments is a female led, online investing platform. With the help of technology, this platform custom builds you equity portfolios that are designed to help achieve your goals. To learn more and get your first six months of automated investing for free, visit themoneymillhouse.com/emperor.
Kitchen Table Finances
Getting Started with Your Budget
Find your Year End Zen
Bethany and Ellie start the show talking about Goal Setting and how we should start thinking about 2019’s goals right now. Ellie says that 92% of people never achieve their goals, and Bethany says she is apart of the other 8% that has. They discuss how those who accomplish their goals set specific goals that are challenging (but are not too hard), and are passionate about their goals to committed to the end. They also discuss that people who accomplish their goals use feedback to stay on track, and that receiving feedback doesn’t mean that you are a terrible person. Instead, feedback helps us get better.
Chris Hogan joins the show discussing the importance of investing, and thinking about the future. He is hearing from a lot of people who wish they could go back and do things for themselves in the past. He wants to help people understand that small steps now can give themselves an advantage for down the road. He also gives great tips for having a plan when it comes to money by “giving every dollar a name.” Chris talks about how money will listen, and how we can have the right kind of knowledge to control it. They revisit the “why” of saving and how to respond when life and emergencies happen. If we aren’t prepared for emergencies, it can steal your joy, which is why Chris stresses the importance of an Emergency Fund. He walks through what would have happened if Bethany didn’t take from her emergency fund a couple months ago, and how it could have lead to more stress.
Chris gives practical advice of how we can take our financial pulse. He advises having a plan during the holiday season so we don’t have a holiday hangover. Set a holiday budget and assign a dollar amount to each person. When the money is gone, you are done—go home. Chris also gives a sneak peak into his new book, Everyday Millionaire. Chris also gives great advice to couples and discussing money with a spouse, including dreaming together.
Bethany and Ellie started the morning off talking about their guest, Brenna Casserly, who is the CEO of Emperor Investments. They also discuss the tasting magic of coffee and how little things can go a long way in this giving season. They talk the holidays and their traditions. Bethany remembers working at Blockbuster during the holidays, and Ellie remembers the gingerbread houses her kids would make when they were young.
Brenna Casserly, the co-founder and CEO of Emperor Investments, joins the MIllhouse discussing Investing. Bethany asks Brenna what it is like being a female CEO, and Ellie asks why she started Emperor Investments. They discuss why Millennials have a hard time investing and ways they are making it easier to invest at Emperor. Brenna defines what a ETF is and why it is great for certain people. Brenna shares how she learned about Investing, and why it is important to invest. She talks about why women don’t normally invest, and why it is important for them to review their investments. She gives great examples of how compound interest can work for you, and why it is not a good option to keep it cash. She also gives advice on how long you should invest and the importance of goal-based investing.
Darbi, the editor and producer of The Money Millhouse, comes to the kitchen table in the last segment to answer the big question: "Do you feel like you are able to go out and invest today?" She shares how she feels paralyzed when it comes to investing because it is a lot of information to digest all at once. They discuss the reasons it is important to start early, but also why it is not a requirement to know all the things when it comes to investing. Darbi shares her thoughts on being a women and the statistics Brenna discussed when it comes to women and investing.
Resources:themoneymillhouse.com/emperor
Bethany and Ellie have a cup of coffee at Ellie Kay's table discussing the season and how it is Bethany loves being cold this time of year. Bethany and Ellie remember a time when Ellie purchased a red coat in Canada, and how she didn't tell the truth in a certain instance. Ellie and Bethany discuss fears and how it can stop us from doing what we want to do. They talk about things that had scared them recently that they had to do, including Ellie connecting in Istanbul and almost missing her flight.
Roger Whitney, The Retirement Answer Man, joins the Millhouse discussing retirement. Ellie challenges Roger to give the answer to retirement in 30 words or less. Roger explains it is important to not check out of life when it comes to Retirement. He encourages Bethany and Ellie to look at it in a new way that may not be traditional. Roger explains why he is excited for the Millennial Generation, and how they are able to change their perspective when it comes to retirement. He gives a practical way that financial advice industry has not caught up to the way we live our lives right now. He gives the two most important investments we could make in our future that could open up a lot of flexibility. They also talk about student loan debt and different ways to invest in our skills. Bethany asks if traditional saving for retirement is still important, and Roger gives reasons why we shouldn’t ignore that.
Enter to win one of TEN books from Roger! Just visit rogerwhitney.com/millhouse!
Bethany and Ellie start the show sharing with sharing what they are thankful for and the excitement of Thanksgiving next week.
Darryl Lyons comes into the Millhouse to discuss being generous as an entrepreneur. He talks about his journey to working for himself, as well as some of the mistakes he made along the way. He talks about how is family had to go down to one car when he first started out, and Ellie shares a similar story when they also had to go down to one car. Darryl shares the one common mistake most entrepreneurs make, including having a foggy brain when it comes to starting out. He gives practical suggestions when it comes to having partners in business and the importance of having an advisory counsel in business. He also shares ways he and his family are able to give back and be generous.
Bethany and Ellie end the show playing a new game: Cheap Vs. Frugal, and knowing the difference between the two!
Thanksgiving is next week and Ellie and Bethany get ready by discussing the difference between financial independence and financial freedom. They give Financial Freedom Factors, including things to keep in mind when it comes to credit cards and Credit utilization.
Tasha Cochran joins the Money Millhouse discussing the holidays, including how to keep happiness in check when it comes to the holiday season. Tasha recommends to set a budget and stick to it—find things to do that don’t cost a lot of money like sledding or decorating cookies. She also gives great tips when it comes to the day after Friday, best ways to navigate Black Friday and cyber Monday, and how we can be teaching kids about money during the holidays. She gives great travel tips around the holidays, and cost effective ways to keep kids busy while on the road. They touch on holiday giving and how to “win” Christmas.
Resources:
Financial Freedom Factors
Atlas Coffee Club
Mint
Trim
Join Ellie and Bethany once again for another edition of Drinks with Darbi.
Bethany and Ellie open the show discussing the work/life balance. They discuss the bad things that can happen when you have a poor work/life balance, and what to do when your office is also your home. Bethany admits that there are times when she leaves her home office to go relax and watch Netflix. Some of the consequences of a poor work/life balance is eating out a lot, which can be harmful to both your budget as well as your waistline. People who have a poor work/life balance can also sacrifice their health when they are stressed out. Another consequence can be retail therapy—AKA the Amazon effect.
Darbi joins the Money Millhouse to discuss her questions during this special BYOB episode. Bethany brought Jack Daniel’s Fire Whiskey and Darbi brought Bullet questions. Darbi asks some of her questions when it comes to work life balance and prioritizing her time when it comes to the different jobs. Bethany commends Darbi on diversifying her income and Ellie commends her on working in this season. Bethany talks about Millennials and their desire to do what they are “Passionate about” and the balance between that. Darbi asks if she should be gauging herself and maintaining certain responsibilities when it comes to being an adult. Bethany discuses the “more” she thinks she needs to do as a right of passage to adulthood, while affirming what Darbi has accomplished. They discuss motivation and the importance of a community or mastermind.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show giving practical and inexpensive ways to destress and self care.
Join Ellie and Bethany once again for another edition of Drinks with Darbi.
Bethany and Ellie open the show discussing the work/life balance. They discuss the bad things that can happen when you have a poor work/life balance, and what to do when your office is also your home. Bethany admits that there are times when she leaves her home office to go relax and watch Netflix. Some of the consequences of a poor work/life balance is eating out a lot, which can be harmful to both your budget as well as your waistline. People who have a poor work/life balance can also sacrifice their health when they are stressed out. Another consequence can be retail therapy—AKA the Amazon effect.
Darbi joins the Money Millhouse to discuss her questions during this special BYOB episode. Bethany brought Jack Daniel’s Fire Whiskey and Darbi brought Bullet questions. Darbi asks some of her questions when it comes to work life balance and prioritizing her time when it comes to the different jobs. Bethany commends Darbi on diversifying her income and Ellie commends her on working in this season. Bethany talks about Millennials and their desire to do what they are “Passionate about” and the balance between that. Darbi asks if she should be gauging herself and maintaining certain responsibilities when it comes to being an adult. Bethany discuses the “more” she thinks she needs to do as a right of passage to adulthood, while affirming what Darbi has accomplished. They discuss motivation and the importance of a community or mastermind.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show giving practical and inexpensive ways to destress and self care.
Bethany and Ellie have a personal show today as they discuss the world of health insurance. Bethany shares a personal story when it comes to some of the medical issues she has been facing in the last few months, and Ellie shares why it is important to have a family member go with you when going on medical visits. Bethany has a lot of questions when it comes to her health insurance, especially since she was shocked with a recent medical bill. Knowing the right questions to ask when you go into the doctors office is important, like making sure you know your co-pay when getting medical procedures done.
Sean Scaturro, Director of Life and Health Insurance Advice for USAA, joins them at Ellie’s kitchen table to help Bethany with some of her questions. Bethany shares with Sean that she feels duped and naive when it comes to her recent medical experience, and Sean gives advice when it comes to being a good consumer. He points out the three key things to be aware of when it comes to major medical insurance: health, wallet and wealth. They talk about the “B” word, and why it is important to have an emergency fund when it comes to health. They discuss some questions consumers can ask their doctor, and Sean breaks down the difference between deductible and out of pocket limit. They talk about the difference between getting procedures done at a hospital as opposed to an out patient facility. Sean warns against the temptation of using good insurance carelessly. He advises to look at both sides of the spectrum—is it something that can wait a week or two, or is it something that needs to happen right now? Sean walks through the open enrollment timelines, and what to keep in mind when being a good consumer.
USAA Health Solutions
Financial First Aid Kit
Bethany and Ellie begin the show talking about the fresh pumpkin pie Bethany made for The Money Millhouse. They continue their conversation discussing investments. Bethany is under the impression that Millennials have a hard time investing—especially when it comes to having money to invest. Ellie gives good tips on how to live within your means and the meaning of the millionaire next door. Bethany shares a close and personal story of where she is in her finical journey and how she has cut back in their home budget.
Joseph Hogue joins the Millhouse discussing the basics of investment. He talks more about why it is difficult for Millennials have a hard time investing. He discusses the importance of investing and what it means to be financially free. He gives some practical ways of finding the leeway in someone’s budget in order to invest, and he explores the different age groups and how investing changes as someone gets older. He explains that the stock market isn’t the only way to invest as well as some examples of other places you can invest your money. He talks about the investing habits of the wealthy and what investments can give a higher return. Bethany and Ellie end the show discussing side hustles and ways to make some extra cash in order to invest.
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about some of the great deals they received from the Orlando Outlets, which they explain are things they splurged on but stayed in their budget. They give the secret to having name brands like Coach, but not paying Coach prices. They then magically transport to the FinCon18 USAA Podcasting booth in Orlando, where they talk to Cristin Gray from USAA.
With Cristin, they discuss Money Movement, which is moving money from one account to another account, wether it is a friend, a merchant, buying a home, etc. Cristin helps Bethany and Ellie with a ‘hypothetical ’ situation of moving money from person to person, as well as mobile pay options. Bethany remembers how she was able to pay for a transaction with her Apple Watch, and Cristin explains what USAA is doing to keep up with the digital capabilities that are emerging. She also explains data aggregation and how USAA’s members are able to securely interact with their accounts. They talk about ways they keep their members money safe, as well as the requirements it takes to be a USAA member (including how many civilians are a part of that community).
Bethany and Ellie return to The Money Millhouse to talk about their USAA podcast booth experience from FinCon18, as well as sharing their total savings from the shopping spree they talked about earlier. They share their love for USAA and the reasons why they are members for life. They also talk about managing next steps and what they are doing to organize their post conference opportunities—including how long to wait before contacting people they have met at a conference. Bethany talks about the things she is working on post-FinCon, and explains what a one-sheet is. They discuss the importance of a debrief and an action sheet after a big event, and both Bethany and Ellie reveal their top 3 action items they are working on post-FinCon.
**Resources:
Zelle**
Service and Ink featuring 3 of Ellie's Sons
Bethany and Ellie open the show Discussing their experience at FinCon18 and how they got of their comfort zones. Ellie shares about how writing a book was one of the things she did that was out of her comfort zone, as well as taking improv classes to improve the podcast. Bethany shares about how moving to England was out of her comfort zone, as well as online dating (where she eventually met her husband). Bethany also went out of her comfort zone when she emceed FinCon18 in front of 2,000 people, and she shares the things she discovered while doing so. They also discuss the Imposter Syndrome everyone can feel when going out of their comfort zone.
Bethany and Ellie then travel to Orlando to interview Chris Browning from the Popcorn Finance podcast LIVE from the podcast booth at FinCon18. He describes the feeling when he won the Plutus Award for Best New Personal Finance Podcast (beating out The Money Millhouse). Chris shares what gave him the idea for Popcorn Finance and why he chose a short-format show. He also talks about his day job of being an analyst and what he hopes to one day do with his side-hustle of his podcast. He explains why he is suited to be an entrepreneur as well as his favorite financial advice for fellow entrepreneurs. He also gives specific advice to Ellie’s millennial kids and shares a financial fail he was able to bounce back from.
Bethany and Ellie finish up the show back in The Money Millhouse discussing the Seven Benefits of Laughter found on Gaiam. They explain how a healthy mindset and body can help save money over time, as found on the episode of The Money Millhouse with Dana Demetre.
Resources:
Seven Health Benefits of Laughter
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about creative ways to earn more than you spend. Ron Anderson comes into the Money Millhouse and discusses taxes and how they could be fun. He gives some of his favorite year-round tax tips and some good general advice for a taxpayer dealing with their taxes. He suggests someone buys a home as a foundation to build their financial freedom. He also says to not spend money unless it is going to be productive when it comes to small businesses, and what to keep in mind if a small business is ever to get audited. He gives tips for keeping receipts and playing “show and tell” with them.
They transition into Ron’s other profession: being a professional magician. He shares some of the stories of some of the famous people he has met along the way, including David Copperfield and Steve Martin. He talks about The Magic Castle, of which he is a member. He explains how to make a hobby into a business—understanding marketing, sales techniques, etc. He gives advice to anyone looking to start a business like this—including buying business cards and keeping records in order. He shares why he always asks for letters of recommendation, and being open to constructive feedback in order to get better. He shares how he manages his creativity and his process of comedy and magic, and why he writes every creative idea down on paper.
Bethany and Ellie open discussing “Second Acts,” when people's careers shift down the road, specifically when life shifted with Ellie and her husband, Bob. Bethany and Ellie also explore ways to saving in little ways that add up so people can have margin in their budget to be able to transition into that Second Act.
Ryan Guina comes into The Money Millhouse to discuss his Second Act of serving in the military, working in the civilian world, becoming an entrepreneur, to then commissioning in the National Guard. Ryan explains the difference between active duty and National Guard, and USERRA, the legal protection that protects the jobs of those serving in the Guard. They discuss a good financial decision that everyone can make and how you can become a millionaire. Ryan also shares starting a side hustle and how that was a great decision for him over the course of the years. Ryan talks about buying cars new instead of used: the reasons and being an informed consumer.
Ellie and Bethany start the show talking about great networking techniques. Ellie explains her “10 Question Game” which she uses to decide if she wants to make a connection with someone. They explore how to tell if people are being a ‘giver’ or a ‘taker’ when it comes to networking situations, as well as ways to develop an effective pitch (and why it is important even if you hate “elevator pitches”).
Joe Saul-Sehy, the founder and host of Stacking Benjamins Podcast, joins The Money Millhouse as the very first, second-time guest exploring how to find a great financial advisor that fits your needs perfectly. He gives good tips on how to distinguish a good advisor verses a bad one, and what signs to look for that can help you tell the difference. According to Joe, the best advisors don’t need advertising and just because you see someone advertising doesn’t mean they are great at what they do.
Joe explains why you should go an advisor’s office for the first meeting, and why you shouldn’t go to someone’s office in a van by the river. He also explains why you don’t have to be best friends with your advisor (and why your spouse doesn’t have to like them). He also gives a great resource to look up complaints against advisors and why it might be a good idea to bring up those reports when looking for a great advisor. He also gives details about how he and is team are taking the Stacking Benjamins Show on the road. The first stop: Orlando (The Money Millhouse will be there!).
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about some of their favorite reasons to go to conferences and how they can be a good investment for you and your business. They talk about some of the best relationships in business they have found when attending conferences. They give great techniques to graciously exit an awkward networking conversation, as well as remembering how to show grace and mercy in conversations that appear uncomfortable. They also explore the importance of a good introduction, as well as giving their pitches for their personal business.
Ellie and Bethany start the show talking about the idea that money can buy happiness. Even though people know money cannot really buy happiness, many people live like it can. Bethany shares techniques she and her husband use when it comes to Bethany’s impulse buys, as well as brands Ellie chooses to splurge on.
Kiné Corder, a best selling author, international speaker, and psychotherapy specializing in financial therapy, joins The Money Millhouse discussing financial therapy. She shares the designations a financial counsellor must have to help in this area, as well as what qualifies someone to be a financial therapist. Bethany asks about the marriage aspect of this topic, and Kiné explores the past money history and programming everyone has when coming into a marriage.
Kiné also explores money personalities/mentality people are prone to, and if people are able to change. She shows Ellie and Bethany techniques people can implement in order to play on strengths in a relationship, including Awareness, “Money Day,” “No Money Day,” and having a Money Challenge or Competition. They end their conversation on the topic of prosperity, and what things can block a prosperity mindset.
Bethany and Ellie start a brand new season of The Money Millhouse! After celebrating the first episode of season 2, they dive into talking about buying a home. Bethany admits she is a little discouraged at the price of homes and how she and her husband are saving up to buy their first house. Ellie gives several ways to make money in real estate.
Joining them on at Ellie’s Kitchen Table is Joseph Kelly, the National Director of Heroes Come First. He shares why this cause matters to him and how Heroes Comes First is able to give back to active and retired: Military, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, Medical professionals and support, teachers and clergy whenever they are buying, selling, or refinancing a home. He also lends his advice when it comes to steps in buying a home and how to look for the professionals to help them. He offers a checklist of qualities to look for when looking for those people to make the process as least stressful as possible, as well as the VA option for our military members
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about how these rewards can add up to thousands of dollars when buying a home. They also discuss expenses that can come up when moving into a new home. They also update the audience on Bethany’s new role at FinCon, the Live Podcasting they will be doing from there, as well as a Facebook Live version of Drinks with Darbi.
Bethany and Ellie start with a bang discussing online grocery options, the possibility of working with their respective spouses, and a true test of a relationship: traveling. Nancy Anderson joins the conversation with real proof that being in business with your spouse is very possible. She explores how she and her husband developed their property development company together from their first property to their latest property. She also has some advice for the people looking to dive into the rental property business, including sacrificing the short term for the long term gain. She and her husband are a team when it comes to business, and she talks about some of the goals they made early on. Nancy and her husband, Ron, travel the country speaking to couples about sacrificing short term to succeed in long-term goals.
Bethany and Ellie reminisce about their time learning to surf in Hawaii and their surfing instructor and Money Millhouse guest, Doug Norman. They also talk about their side hustles, what a side hustle is, and their goals and objectives when it comes to what their side hustles yield. They discuss financial independence and being able to retire early (also known as the FIRE movement).
Doug joins Ellie’s kitchen table discussing the Blended Retirement System, the new Military Retirement System, as well as how he and his wife were able to retire early. They touch on asset allocation, high savings rate, how to save as a civilian, what to do as a retired couple, as well as travel hacking as a vet. Bethany and Ellie wrap up the show clarifying a lot of the big words and concepts Doug used.
Bethany and Ellie reminisce about their time learning to surf in Hawaii and their surfing instructor and Money Millhouse guest, Doug Norman. They also talk about their side hustles, what a side hustle is, and their goals and objectives when it comes to what their side hustles yield. They discuss financial independence and being able to retire early (also known as the FIRE movement).
Doug joins Ellie’s kitchen table discussing the Blended Retirement System, the new Military Retirement System, as well as how he and his wife were able to retire early. They touch on asset allocation, high savings rate, how to save as a civilian, what to do as a retired couple, as well as travel hacking as a vet. Bethany and Ellie wrap up the show clarifying a lot of the big words and concepts Doug used.
Today on the show, Ellie and Bethany talk about communicating to your spouse about money. Pam Farrel joins in the discussion with talking about how men are like waffles and women are like spaghetti. Learn how to talk about those important money conversations and why men and women are different when it comes to relating to this subject.
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about how it pays to be kind, ways to be generous, and why it is important to have freedom in your budget to be able to do those things. They also reminisce about the time Bethany didn’t tip someone who helped her with her bags, but how they were able to remedy the situation. Bethany explores the reasons why she occasionally gets things for free, and why it pays to be around nice people.
Ginger Harrington, author of new book Holy in the Moment, joins the conversation about the kinds of investments it takes to write a book. She talks about the concept of making intentional choices and to how invest in today to build for tomorrow. They talk about the Scarcity Mindset vs. the Abundance Mindset, and how making good choices can lead to opportunity. She shares one area she thinks differently in her life 10 years ago verses right now, and learning how to be intentional with resources, time, friendships, etc.
Ellie and Bethany kick off the show raving about their star guest, Joe Saul-Sehy and their experience at FinCon this year. They also talk about financial education, both formal and informal, and the different ways people can learn. Then Joe from award-winning podcast, Stacking Benjamins, comes into the Millhouse to talk about the reasons he likes his coffee a certain way, and the Save50 course he created that will teach you to save 50% of your income.
They also discuss the key to financial education: “It isn’t about what you know, it is about what you do.” Joe also shares some of his money stories that taught him the dangers of credit, how to recover after some credit decisions, as well as a pretty crazy encounter with a hotel room’s mini-bar. Bethany and Ellie finish the show talking about ways to graduate college debt free. They also discuss why a work ethic is important to financial education, as well as the balance between balance and work as an entrepreneur.
Bethany and Ellie discuss the unscientific differences between caffeine levels in dark roasts vs blond roasts. They then talk about teaching kids about money, including their adventures teaching the children of Navy Seals. Ellie talks about her methods behind giving her children an allowance when they were young, while Bethany reminisces what rewards she would receive by being a military child.
Chad Bourquin, who owns three businesses, joins the Money Millhouse talking about his band, Dream Big Series, and how they developed. He touches on the Zone of Genius from the book The Big Leapand what that looks like for him, how he handles being an entrepreneur, and how he stays organized. According to Chad, it is really hard to go after your dreams if you are in debt and he touches on why it is so important to be financially responsible. And Bethany is happy to know that at the age of 27, she can still dream big.
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about the 401K conference coming up, as well as their favorite conference—aka “The Disneyland for Finance”—Fincon. They elaborate on the Zone of Excellence and where they feel they operate. Ellie also discusses they ways she keeps her craft sharp, and Bethany remembers where she first learned the sense of professionalism and the spirit of excellence.
Bethany and Ellie talking about a summer when Bethany and her brothers were growing up. Ellie tells an endearing story about the youngest Kay, Joshua, and how he earned money for a t-shirt. Bethany was the baby-sitter before her first job at Blockbuster. They talk about how you can teach children about money even at a young age. Paul Vasey joins the conversation sharing his approach to teaching children about money through games. He said this was his approach to teaching kids at a young age so they don’t grow up to going into debt. According to Paul, parents should be talking to their children about money from day one because children understand and observe very early, which is why parents should be a good example for their kids. In a game situation, they are teaching kids money habits and opening up conversations between parents and their kids. He also gives great tips about saving money and how you can teach your children about money principles.
Bethany and Ellie finish up the show with discussing the value of money, and Bethany remembers how Ellie put an emphasis on safety when her kids were growing up. They revisit the discussion of college—should parents pay for it, or should children earn it?
Gerri Detweiler is in The Money Millhouse today with Ellie and Bethany to talk all things Credit. Before she stops in, Bethany talks about her favorite pair of shoes, why rules don’t apply to her, and unusual places you can find Bed Bath and Beyond coupons. Gerri talks about credit card myths, nuances in the credit space, and why closing credit accounts could hurt your credit score instead of hurting it. Also find out why Ellie and Bethany really mean when they call certain things “stupid.”
Today Ellie and Bethany hop in the car on a road trip to meet JJ Montanaro to talk about planning for the future. On the way, they discuss saving money on travel—from road trips to International trips, there are a lot of great resources out there to help you. JJ suggests to have a plan when saving: Start Early, Start Small, and Stay Committed. He touches on deterrents to saving money, having a stash of cash for an Emergency Fund, long term goals like Retirement, home down payment, vacation, then moves onto having savings accounts earmarked for specific goals, what percentage should go into savings, what to look for when it comes to BRS. Once Ellie and Bethany get back to the Money Millhouse, they talk about their own savings goals, the importance of an Emergency Fund, and finish on why serving the Military is so near and dear to their hearts.
Revisit the second episode of The Money Millhouse with The Budgetnista!
Tiffany Aliche pops into The Money Millhouse today to talk about budgeting, cutting back to focus on priorities, born spenders vs. savers, and the balance in relationships when it comes to money. Later in the show, Ellie shares her story about how she got to where she is today, and Bethany shares how she finagled her way into getting free Sprite once as a child.
The Money Millhouse is taking a break for the summer, but they are revisiting their very first episode with Rod Griffin talking about credit and their new show. Stick around until the end to hear a little behind the scenes from The Money Millhouse Team.
Bethany and Ellie begin the show geeking out over their favorite super heroes and characters in the Marvel Universe. They share their hidden "super powers", define what the castanets are, and how many instruments Bethany plays. They then explain geeking out over money at their favorite conference, FinCon.
Philip "PT" Taylor, the founder of FinCon, joins the show sharing details of said financial conference. He explains the origin story of how he decided to hang out with fellow money nerds, and how it has developed since then. He talks about the people who SHOULD be attending FinCon, whether they be a newbie or established expert in the financial media space. He shares his dream of this conference one day becoming the ComiCon of the financial world, and how this community is fighting their arch nemesis--financial illiteracy.
Bethany and Ellie finish the show discussing project management and event coordinating. They reflect on how often past life events prepared Bethany for what she is doing now professionally, as well as for her wedding, which had a detailed 4-page document and color-coded itinerary system to make sure the Big Day went off without a hitch.
Bethany and Ellie start the show off defining the term “Military Brat” and how many houses Bethany lived in growing up as a child of a military member. They talk about the three bedroom house they called “the dorms”, and when Ellie and her husband bought their first house in New Mexico. Bethany remembers what it was like to live in that house, and then what a dream house would look like for her.
Rich Carey joins the conversation discussing the Real Estate business he has developed as a side hustle while also being in the military. Ellie tells Rich about her son looking to buy a home at his next assignment. Rich gives the secret to wether you should buy or sell in the area you live using the 1% Rule, and why it is difficult to do in high cost of living areas. He gives one of the common mistakes military members make when buying houses and exposes the myth of buying a home in each location and still coming out on top of rent. He also talks about the reasons buying overseas can be very difficult, and the most opportune time to buy houses as a military member or civilians. He also gives a specific message to Ellie’s son, Jonathan.
Bethany and Ellie talking about a summer when Bethany and her brothers were growing up. Ellie tells an endearing story about the youngest Kay, Joshua, and how he earned money for a t-shirt. Bethany was the baby-sitter before her first job at Blockbuster. They talk about how you can teach children about money even at a young age.
Paul Vasey joins the conversation sharing his approach to teaching children about money through games. He said this was his approach to teaching kids at a young age so they don’t grow up to going into debt. According to Paul, parents should be talking to their children about money from day one because children understand and observe very early, which is why parents should be a good example for their kids. In a game situation, they are teaching kids money habits and opening up conversations between parents and their kids. He also gives great tips about saving money and how you can teach your children about money principles.
Bethany and Ellie finish up the show with discussing the value of money, and Bethany remembers how Ellie put an emphasis on safety when her kids were growing up. They revisit the discussion of college—should parents pay for it, or should children earn it?
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about how everything in life will always come back to money, which is why they have so many different kinds of guests on the show. Sometimes life doesn’t go the way we planned, and Bethany recalled the moment she found out her mom was in a car accident. Ellie recalls Bethany’s visit to the Emergency Room after a wisdom tooth extraction. They also go over several points on the Financial First Aid Kit Checklist everyone needs to keep in mind in case the unexpected happens.
Marnie Henderson, a life re-entry practitioner, joins the conversation talking about how loss of a loved one can impact all areas of life, including financial. She talks about how she teaches her clients to take the next steps after loss. She explores the financial repercussions to losing a spouse, as well as recreating goals, rediscovering your purpose, the changing dynamics with family members, etc. She discusses the balance between saving for goals in the future and living in the now and how loss gives us an opportunity to look at life in a new way. She also shares about a healing retreat in Belize coming up this summer.
Bethany and Ellie talk about the benefits of working with family. Ellie remembers a certain business trip she took Bethany on and how she realized she had a gift in the area of public relations. Bethany remembers another story of a business trip and how it set her future in stone.
Eva Baker, founder of Teens Got Cents, and her mom and business partner, Charlotte Baker, join The Money Millhouse to talk about Eva’s journey to founding her business. Eva recounts some feedback she has received from her site, how she gets a lot of comments about her age, and how she has learned to embrace it. She shares about how something that started as a high school project turned into a business, and the role her mom had in that journey.
Charlotte talks about her perspective on her partnership with Eva and how it has evolved. She never intended it to be a project for her, it was originally just for Eva, but thy realized it would not be plausible for Eva to handle everything. Charlotte also shares what it was like to see Eva blogging as herself and not anonymously, and whose vote carries the extra weight. Eva also talks about the upcoming Teenpreneur conference coming up in Jacksonville, FL. June 22, 2018.
Bethany and Ellie end the episode discussing how they also work together, and how they have very similar personality types. They explore the times they like being together and when they don’t, and how they manage being around each other all the time.
Bethany and Ellie open the show with the difference between dark roast and light roast coffee's caffeine content. They also talk about how Ellie is hinting heavily for Bethany to have a baby, which leads to conversations about planning for babies, including cars and the cost of raising a baby. Even though the cost of raising a baby can be daunting, Ellie gives tips on how to make it work, and how her children are a blessing in her life.
Tonya Rapley, an internationally recognized millennial money expert, joins the conversation around the table even though she was under a book deadline. They explore the hard parts of writing a book, and the downfalls of “perfection paralysis”. Tonya shares her journey to writing this book and why she decided to self-publish. She mentions the importance of having an accountability partner when it comes to accomplishing your goals. Tonya also tells the best parts of writing a book, when her book will be coming out, and her next steps in life.
Bethany and Ellie end the show continuing their conversation about how Ellie wants Bethany to have a baby ASAP. Then Ellie remembers what Bethany was like as a baby, and Bethany defends her personality with examples of her childhood. Also—Bethany is not pregnant.
Bethany and Ellie open talking about pivots that come in life and why people are more likely to change their careers these days. They discuss their own pivots throughout their lives and why they have changed things up a little bit since starting in their respective careers. They talk about why it is important to be open to transitions and
Mark Green, US Army Lt. Col Ret. and Vetrepreneur, talks about what it was like to learn how to walk again after an injury sustained during deployment and advice for Vets looking to start their own business. He talks about what he enjoys about being his own boss and the regiment he maintains. He thinks on his biggest accomplishment over his life, and his future goals of giving back to the Vet community.
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about their favorite Vet-owned businesses and their favorite conferences, including MilBlogging/The Influencers. Ellie talks about her time as a Military spouse Entrepreneur and advice she would give to people looking to start a home-based business. Bethany asks how you know if you have “it”—the ability and grit to be an entrepreneur.
Bethany and Ellie open the show with discussing their favorite TV shows, why one of Bethany’s younger brother cried during a tv show, and the reasons to have a life coach. They talk about different kinds of life coaches and the questions to ask yourself to know if you would benefit from a Life Coach.
Ann Vanino, a career and new directions coach and writer, joins the conversation addressing the stigma to the title “Life Coach” and how she decided to go into that profession. She shares the reasons she was attracted to the idea of being a life coach, how the relationship with money ties into her coaching, and her personal journey with money growing up. She also touches on how money plays into a person’s career success.
Bethany and Ellie end the show sharing their favorite advice they have received from Ann, as well as the need for sharpening professional skills and ways to do that. They share their stories about Toastmasters and how it has helped them in their professional lives and the need for constructive criticism and feedback.
Bethany and Ellie discuss the unscientific differences between caffeine levels in dark roasts vs blond roasts. They then talk about teaching kids about money, including their adventures teaching the children of Navy Seals. Ellie talks about her methods behind giving her children an allowance when they were young, while Bethany reminisces what rewards she would receive by being a military child.
Chad Bourquin, who owns three businesses, joins the Money Millhouse talking about his band, Dream Big Series, and how they developed. He touches on the Zone of Genius from the book The Big Leap and what that looks like for him, how he handles being an entrepreneur, and how he stays organized. According to Chad, it is really hard to go after your dreams if you are in debt and he touches on why it is so important to be financially responsible. And Bethany is happy to know that at the age of 27, she can still dream big.
Bethany and Ellie end the show talking about the 401K conference coming up, as well as their favorite conference—aka “The Disneyland for Finance”—Fincon. They elaborate on the Zone of Excellence and where they feel they operate. Ellie also discusses they ways she keeps her craft sharp, and Bethany remembers where she first learned the sense of professionalism and the spirit of excellence.
Bethany and Ellie open the show talking about how it pays to be kind, ways to be generous, and why it is important to have freedom in your budget to be able to do those things. They also reminisce about the time Bethany didn’t tip someone who helped her with her bags, but how they were able to remedy the situation. Bethany explores the reasons why she occasionally gets things for free, and why it pays to be around nice people.
Ginger Harrington, author of new book Holy in the Moment, joins the conversation about the kinds of investments it takes to write a book. She talks about the concept of making intentional choices and to how invest in today to build for tomorrow. They talk about the Scarcity Mindset vs. the Abundance Mindset, and how making good choices can lead to opportunity. She shares one area she thinks differently in her life 10 years ago verses right now, and learning how to be intentional with resources, time, friendships, etc.
Bethany and Ellie start off talking about their home-brewed coffee, and conversation drifts towards buying cars and the story of Ellie buying her dream car. Buying a vehicle can be one of the biggest mistakes you make in your finances, so Ellie touches on the right way to do it as well as how not to lose $8k in 30 seconds.
EJ Smith, a Licensed Professional Counselor, joins the conversation speaking on a somewhat heavy but very important topic of financial spousal abuse. She speaks on being able to detect spousal abuse and the difference between being financial abusive and having financially unhealthy behaviors. She also talks about what lead her to pursue a career in mental health—including being a listener instead of talking. She provides several resources available to those in these situations. Bethany and Ellie wrap up the episode addressing the importance of speaking up about these issues, as well as touching again on the distinction between abuse and conflict.
It is a special episode on The Money Millhouse as editor and producer Darbi Masters comes into the Millhouse. Before she gets there, Bethany and Ellie discuss how they met Darbi, how to find free things to do in your city, and some real facts about their producer.
Darbi comes into The Money Millhouse and they talk about their drinks of choice, and Bethany and Ellie answer Darbi's financial questions, including tax questions, a great way to keep up with expenses, and good resources to use when filing taxes. So kick back, grab your favorite drink (unless you are driving) and enjoy this unique episode of The Money Millhouse!
Bethany and Ellie start with a bang discussing online grocery options, the possibility of working with their respective spouses, and a true test of a relationship: traveling. Nancy Anderson joins the conversation with real proof that being in business with your spouse is very possible. She explores how she and her husband developed their property development company together from their first property to their latest property. She also has some advice for the people looking to dive into the rental property business, including sacrificing the short term for the long term gain. She and her husband are a team when it comes to business, and she talks about some of the goals they made early on. Nancy and her husband, Ron, travel the country speaking to couples about sacrificing short term to succeed in long-term goals.
Nancy also has a free giveaway this episode! Her book Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome: How to Grow Affair-Proof Hedges Around Your Marriage by visiting TheMoneyMillhouse.com.
Bethany and Ellie are back in The Money Millhouse discussing the place of women in the financial world, both professionally and in the home. They touch on women having access to the money and how women can beeped to develop your own credit score, start your own retirement, etc. Jen Hemphill, AFC and Military spouse, joins the conversation discussing her new book that just released, as well as gaining confidence in the space. She discusses the messy money sessions, her biggest fail in her finances, and sharing types of money stories in her community.
Bethany and Ellie reminisce about their time learning to surf in Hawaii and their surfing instructor and Money Millhouse guest, Doug Nordman. They also talk about their side hustles, what a side hustle is, and their goals and objectives when it comes to what their side hustles yield. They discuss financial independence and being able to retire early (also known as the FIRE movement).
Doug joins Ellie’s kitchen table discussing the Blended Retirement System, the new Military Retirement System, as well as how he and his wife were able to retire early. They touch on asset allocation, high savings rate, how to save as a civilian, what to do as a retired couple, as well as travel hacking as a vet.
Bethany and Ellie discuss different cultures when it comes to money—family cultures as well as cultures from other countries. Ellie talks about her Spanish heritage and how she was raised with money. Ellie also talked about her experiences learning Spanish on the streets in Spain.
Amanda Abella joins them talking about LatinX and the unique challenges she sees in that community. She also talks about trends for immigrant families and how it translates over into the LatinX community, the differences between being a consumer and owner, the importance of having multiple sources of income to give yourself options. She touches on the importance of managing money and when it is time to look for a chance to earn more money. Amanda explores the reasons Millennials are afraid of investing, as well as apps and advisors that can help to start slowly.
Bethany and Ellie discuss different cultures when it comes to money—family cultures as well as cultures from other countries. Ellie talks about her Spanish heritage and how she was raised with money. Ellie also talked about her experiences learning Spanish on the streets in Spain.
Amanda Abella joins them talking about LatinX and the unique challenges she sees in that community. She also talks about trends for immigrant families and how it translates over into the LatinX community, the differences between being a consumer and owner, the importance of having multiple sources of income to give yourself options. She touches on the importance of managing money and when it is time to look for a chance to earn more money. Amanda explores the reasons Millennials are afraid of investing, as well as apps and advisors that can help to start slowly.
Bethany and Ellie talk about how they grew up understanding money and how their families raised them when it comes to money. They also touch on ways their money perspectives differ from their friends. They also talk about the term Millennial and their feelings when it comes to that particular word. Erin Lowry joins the conversation on the Millennials, as well as what she is doing to help her generation to go from broke to financially free.
Ellie and Bethany kick off the show raving about their star guest, Joe Saul-Sehy and their experience at FinCon this year. They also talk about financial education, both formal and informal, and the different ways people can learn. Then Joe from award-winning podcast, Stacking Benjamins, comes into the Millhouse to talk about the reasons he likes his coffee a certain way, and the Save50 course he created that will teach you to save 50% of your income.
They also discuss the key to financial education: “It isn’t about what you know, it is about what you do.” Joe also shares some of his money stories that taught him the dangers of credit, how to recover after some credit decisions, as well as a pretty crazy encounter with a hotel room’s mini-bar. Bethany and Ellie finish the show talking about ways to graduate college debt free. They also discuss why a work ethic is important to financial education, as well as the balance between balance and work as an entrepreneur.
Bethany and Ellie are having an awesome day in The Money Millhouse speaking way too much about their coffee, then moving on to the topic of friendship. Can your business partner be your friend? Dr. Krista Wells joins the show to discuss that very question, plus setting boundaries in friendships, "friendship pre-nups", and the psychological benefits of good friends. She also touches on toxic friendships, taking your friendship “energy pulse,” knowing when to end friendships, and different kind of boundaries.
Bethany and Ellie then discuss friends plus money and their methods of keeping those boundaries clear. They also talk about traveling with friends, lending money, and positive things when it comes to ways friends can help you earn things for FREE.
Bethany and Ellie have good friend Lacey Langford in the Millhouse today to talk about how you can move from fear to confidence in money matters. Ellie and Bethany talk about reasons people can be afraid of money, their own personal times when they have been afraid of money, why it is important to be a student about money, and "adulating in general."
Lacey also talks about unique financial challenges our military members may face. When choosing options, often fear stops people from making a decision and taking action. Lacey touches on how to gain confidence through effective budgeting, including things to keep in mind when making a budget and how much families should be spending on food each month. She even adds some great information about the new Blended Retirement System (BRS) military members will be choosing this year.
The show kicks off with a bang as Bethany and Ellie talk about saving money when it comes to eating healthy, including menu planning and tips on shopping at the grocery store. Ellie suggests t start your menu planning by looking into your pantry and avoid wastage. Danna Demetre joins the conversation on how the principles to save money are the same when it comes to your health, as well. Learn about which poisons currently going into your body that you can cut out, which sweetener is the best for your body, and why disease can be expensive. Also learn why having Mental Health Days are important and natural days to de-stress.
Learn about Ellie’s first business as a child, and the advantages of working for yourself as an employer as she grew up. They also discuss some of the pitfalls for home-based businesses that you should avoid, the risk factors to keep in mind, and crunching the numbers when it comes to choosing a home-based business. Erica McMannes joins the conversation about her passion to create remote jobs for military spouses. We talk about the need for spouses to have dual income, the difficulties to bootstrap a business, what bootstrapping means, and what opportunities there are for remote work. Later in the show, Ellie and Bethany talk about the difference between independent contractors and a regular employee. They also talk about important tax information entrepreneurs need to keep in mind. They touch on the difference between a hobby and a business, as well as the benefits of each.
In the first part of the show, Bethany and Ellie talk about owning a dog and the expenses you should plan for if you are considering a furry family member. Dr. Jennifer Degler joins them to talk about having conversations about money with your spouse. Learn the main source of arguments that can tear marriages apart, how to have a successful money conversation with a spouse or significant other, and the difference between arguing about money or deeper issues. When is the right time to talk about Money?
Today on the show, Ellie and Bethany talk about communicating to your spouse about money. Pam fare joins in the discussion with talking about how men are like waffles and women are like spaghetti.
Gerri Detweiler is in The Money Millhouse today with Ellie and Bethany to talk all things Credit. Before she stops in, Bethany talks about her favorite pair of shoes, why rules don’t apply to her, and unusual places you can find Bed Bath and Beyond coupons. Gerri talks about credit card myths, nuances in the credit space, and why closing credit accounts could hurt your credit score instead of hurting it. Also find out why Ellie and Bethany really mean when they call certain things “stupid.”
Today Ellie and Bethany hop in the car on a road trip to meet JJ Montanaro, a financial planner at USAA and Army Veteran, to talk about planning for the future. On the way, they discuss saving money on travel—from road trips to International trips, there are a lot of great resources out there to help you. JJ suggests to have a plan when saving: Start Early, Start Small, and Stay Committed. He touches on deterrents to saving money, having a stash of cash for an Emergency Fund, long term goals like Retirement, home down payment, vacation, then moves on to having savings accounts earmarked for specific goals, what percentage should go into savings, what to look for when it comes to BRS. Once Ellie and Bethany get back to the Money Millhouse, they talk about their own savings goals, the importance of an Emergency Fund, and finish on why serving the Military is so near and dear to our hearts.
Bethany and Ellie have Tiffany Aliche is in the Millhouse talking about budgeting, cutting back to focus on priorities, born spenders vs. savers, and the balance in relationships when it comes to money. Ellie shares her story about how she got to where she is today, and Bethany recalls an instance where she got free Sprite as a child.
Join Bethany and Ellie as they talk to Rod Griffin as he talks about what your credit report and scores affect lots of different parts of your life, the myths of credit reports, the difference between bad and good credit scores in the cost of credit of their lifetime, and the most powerful word in credit. Also in the show, Ellie gives Bethany a present, they talk about Date Night ideas, and a special secret is revealed at the end of the episode.