Empowered Planning Blog

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Episode Summary:

On today's episode of The Empowered Planning Podcast, we're tackling a question that bugs many of us: To rent or to buy a home? Sure, those fluctuating interest rates and ever-changing housing prices make it tricky, but this choice is more about what fits your life and dreams instead of just crunching numbers. I'll discuss how the market's ups and downs play into this major life decision and share some of my experiences and tips to help you figure out what suits you best. Curious to find out which option aligns with your personal goals and financial situation? Join me in this episode, where we'll explore how to make a choice that syncs up with your life's path.

Topics:

• Analyzing the rent vs. buy decision in current economic conditions
• The most common emotional aspects of home ownership and renting
• Practical tips for navigating the housing market
• How to approach the home buying process thoughtfully
• The...

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Episode Summary:

Today, on the Empowered Planning Podcast, I will tackle the crucial world of debt and credit. I've got a lot lined up to help you get savvy about managing your debts and boosting your credit score. Ever wonder what makes credit 'good' or 'bad'? Or how do those credit bureaus decide your score? Well, I’m breaking it all down today. Plus, I'll guide you through the five big factors that influence your credit score and share some handy tips for tackling your debt. Whether you aim to trim down your debt or spruce up your credit game, this episode is packed with actionable advice to empower your financial journey.

Topics:

• Understanding the difference between good credit vs. bad credit
• Demystifying credit scores and their impact on your financial profile
• The importance of good credit in various aspects of life
• The complete breakdown of the five factors that determine your credit score
• Practical strategies for...

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Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the Empowered Planning Podcast, we discuss the critical yet often overlooked topic of financial trauma. Joined by the esteemed financial coach and author Rahkim Sabree, we explore the intricate relationship between money, mental health, and personal experiences. Rahkim shares his journey into financial therapy, revealing how personal and observed experiences can profoundly affect our financial behaviors. We discuss real-life stories, define financial trauma, and provide actionable advice for those seeking to understand and overcome their financial hurdles. Join us as we expose the layers of financial trauma, offering guidance, empathy, and strategies to empower your financial journey.

Topics:

• Understanding the psychological aspects of financial trauma and its impact on individuals
• Exploring how financial trauma affects relationships and strategies for overcoming these challenges
• ...

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Episode Summary:

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Empowered Planning Podcast! Today, I'm joined by the insightful David Delisle to explore the nuances of financial literacy and how we can instill a sense of value and mindfulness in our spending habits—both for ourselves and our children. David's unique perspective on finding our "awesome stuff" and how we perceive our financial choices offers a fresh outlook on managing money, prioritizing experiences, and understanding the true value of the things we spend our money and time on. Instead of saying, "We can't afford that," David offers genius tips for reframing conversations with our little ones. Think, pause, reflect, and ask if that shiny new toy aligns with their "awesome stuff." Whether you're a parent aiming to navigate your kids through the complex world of financial choices or just someone keen on enhancing your money mindset, this episode is brimming with insights...

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Episode Summary:

Welcome back to another episode of The Empowered Planning Podcast! Even though we are still in February, we're tackling a question today that might not be about love, but it's definitely close to our hearts: what should you do with an old 401k? Whether you're deeply invested in plotting your financial future or just starting to ponder over your retirement savings, this episode is designed with you in mind. Navigating your options for an old 401k can feel like navigating a relationship: it's important, sometimes complicated, but ultimately rewarding. You may consider keeping it with your previous employer, moving it to your new job's plan, or rolling it into an individual retirement account. Each choice has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and just like in any good partnership, it's all about finding the right balance that works for you. My goal for this episode is to equip you with the knowledge and...

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Episode Summary:

I’m so excited to have a long time client and friend on the podcast today, Betsy Smith. Betsy is a multi-passionate entrepreneur who owns her own hair salon and handcrafted souvenir shop. The best part? She didn’t take action on these businesses until she was 29 years old which shows it’s never too late to pivot. Throughout our conversation, you’ll hear a bit about Betsy’s Amish upbringing and how this informed the way she feels about money and financial decisions as a whole. Betsy has done so much work in not only creating a business (and life!) that she’s proud of, but healing and overcoming negative money narratives. I hope this conversation leaves you feeling inspired.

Topics:

• Where Betsy’s entrepreneurial and rebel spirit comes from and how it informs her decisions today 
• What the financial conversations for Betsy were like growing up in the Amish community...

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Episode Summary:

It is Valentine's Day and in honor of this special love day, I want to dive into a crucial yet challenging aspect of any partnership: talking about money with your partner. Now money matters while essential, can be a source of tension in relationships. I'm sure at one point in another, you've felt that in yours (I have, too). The financial problems or money issues cause about 40% of divorces in the US. That is a large number and one that should not be ignored. So the goal today is to help you figure out how to navigate these waters with grace and understanding. I want to offer you strategies and insights for how to discuss financial issues without conflict, and whether it's budgeting or debt management or planning for your future, we're going to explore effective ways to communicate with your partner about your finances.

Topics:

• Tips for actually starting a conversation about money with your partner to avoid...

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Episode Summary:

Ever wonder why money feels like such a daunting, complicated topic? Wish someone could demystify it and make it more relatable? Well, you're in for a treat on this episode of The Empowered Planning Podcast. Join us as we dive into an enlightening conversation with Juliet Odhiambo, all the way from Kenya! Juliet is not your typical money expert. She's a money coach with a superpower that sets her apart – she humanizes the world of finance. In this episode, Juliet shares her journey from banking to becoming a financial educator and coach. She's not just about numbers; she's about helping people navigate the complex. If you're ready to make friends with your finances, gain some priceless clarity, and hear inspiring stories from the beautiful heart of Kenya, don't miss this episode!

Topics:

• Juliet's journey from finance graduate to community financial educator
• The process Juliet uses to navigate financial...

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Episode Summary:

In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips on how to save money in January after coming off a high spending season in November and December. We’ll cover the different ways to reduce energy costs, such as using smart thermostats and LED bulbs. Then I’ll dive into cutting down on unwanted subscriptions and how to optimize your cell phone plans. I’m giving suggestions on negotiating bills and shopping for the best deals in January, including holiday decor, TV and home theater equipment, and furniture. I’m also telling you why I am cautioning against buying large home appliances, mattresses, and fitness equipment this month. The last tip I share revolves around everyone’s biggest stressor – grocery shopping! I hope this is helpful for you this month and beyond.

Topics:

• Reducing energy costs by using smart thermostats, LED bulbs, and unplugging electronics when not in use...

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Episode Summary:

Are you feeling the pressure of the holiday season? Maybe you’re feeling so stressed out that you non longer feel the joy that can be so abundant at the end of the year. I’m so excited to have our first guest on the episode today, my dear friend Jean is joining me to talk about how she has learned to shift out guilt for joy in her life (because there is so much of it to be had). She shares the practices that have helped her overcome the common challenges that we all face in raising children while being career driven women. I hope our conversation today can help you come back home to not only the meaning of this season, but why you do what you do each day!

Topics:

• That practices that really worked for Jean as she faced some of the challenges with raising children and working full time
• The importance of taking care of yourself, even if it’s just ten minutes a day, and how to start that routine...