In this episode, Lauryn Williams is joined by AJ Vassar, an entrepreneur, international speaker, and world traveler. AJ dives into how he set his “freedom date,” moved from the United States to Medellin, Colombia, and embraced financial literacy to create a life of independence. Tune in to hear about his experiences as a business owner, his season of learning while homeless, and how he has lived abroad for over six years using his "freedom date" philosophy.  Key Takeaways [7:30] College Life and Financial Struggles: AJ shares how growing up in financial hardship shaped his mindset and how attending college, without fully understanding the consequences of student loans, impacted his future. [17:34] Learning to Sell and Build Relationships: AJ explains the importance of selling and building relationships, not just for business but for navigating life’s challenges, emphasizing that success is about connection and communication. [20:58] Resilience Through Voluntary Homelessness: AJ discusses how a period of “voluntary” homelessness taught him resilience and the importance of staying the course when faced with adversity. [28:24] Setting a Freedom Date and Moving to Medellin: AJ explains his "freedom date" concept and how he planned and executed his move from the U.S. to Medellin, Colombia, using this date as a turning point for financial independence. [44:54] Organizing Finances as an Entrepreneur: AJ outlines practical steps for financial management, including keeping regular meetings with a tax professional, budgeting, and reviewing plans with a financial coach to stay on track. If AJ’s story inspired you to take control of your financial future, join Lauryn at the next Welcome to Wealth Retreat! Get a customized financial plan while experiencing a life-changing journey in Medellin, Colombia. Visit worth-winning.com/retreats to learn more and sign up today! Links & Resources Mentioned Follow AJ Vassar on social media: @ajvassar Learn more about the Welcome to Wealth Retreat: worth-winning.com/retreats Read AJ’s Book: Day Grades: From Homeless to Giving 5 Cars Away and Much More in Just 3 Short Years About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats at worth-winning.com. Follow Us on Social Media Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

Lauryn Williams is back on the Worth Listening Podcast with some major updates! After a long break since the last episode in August of last year, she’s ready to dive into what's been happening in her life and business, including some big changes. Lauryn discusses the latest updates on student loan repayment, her decision to take her income to zero after growing a successful business, and why she’s now living abroad. She also shares exciting news about combining her passions for travel and finance into empowering financial retreats. Key Takeaways Big student loan update: Lauryn shares the latest on student loans and how politics are impacting borrower repayment plans. Lauryn’s life update and business reset: Lauryn explains why she decided to take her income to zero, despite having grown a successful business, and what that shift has meant for her life and career. Moving abroad: Find out where Lauryn has relocated and why she made the move. Combining travel and finance: Lauryn’s main focus now is bringing people to Medellin, Colombia, for financial retreats that empower them to take control of their money while exploring new horizons. Bridging financial coaching and financial planning: Lauryn dives into the difference between financial coaching and financial planning. What’s next for the podcast: Lauryn outlines her plans for the podcast going forward. Excited about the financial retreats or have questions for Lauryn? Reach out to [email protected], and don’t forget to check out the upcoming retreat dates in Medellin, Colombia. Take control of your finances while experiencing something new! Links & Resources Mentioned Sign up for the Welcome to Wealth Retreat: worth-winning.com/retreats Take The Financial Checkup Quiz About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here]. Follow Us on Social Media Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

Student loans have gone crazy! Payments are starting back up in October and people are desperately trying to figure out what they need to do to prepare. So I’m going to share everything you need to know related to getting ready to start repaying your loans again. There have been a lot of changes so if you have student loans or are thinking about getting student loans, you need to listen to this.  In the episode, I share: Lump sum payments and who shouldn’t be making them Steps to take before payments begin in October Forgiveness plans and who they’re for Why you need to be thinking about your student loan situation The coming Income-Driven Repayment tracker Why now is the time to take advantage of getting on the right student loan repayment plan The difference between consolidation and refinancing Why consolidation is not the right fit for everyone What refinancing means and why it’s not for everyone The new SAVE plan If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams Mentioned Resources: Frugal Living and the FIRE Movement, with Travis Hornsby Visit Student Loan Planner to learn more about student loans and schedule a consultation to discover your best repayment plan. Please reach out at [email protected] if you’re interested in learning more about bringing a corporate financial wellness presentation to your organization. If you want to share your money memoir on the podcast, contact us at [email protected].

Today NFL player Kelvin Beachum joins the podcast. Kelvin is a Texas native entering his 12th season. In addition to playing football, he is also a board member, advisor, active technology investor, and philanthropist. Today Kevin will share with us his money memoir including his entry into the NFL and why he has continued to pursue other opportunities while playing. You will be encouraged and motivated by his message. In this episode we discuss: Living below your means How your experiences and exposure change your relationship with money That all NFL players aren’t instant millionaires The importance of purposeful spending How Kelvin got started in the world of Venture Capital  Curiosity and the impact of being a life long learner The role of networking in financial success and opportunities Donor Advised Fund (DAF) Mentioned Resources: www.kelvinbeachum.com If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to connect further with Kelvin Beachum: LinkedIn: @kb2smu

Today Carrie Nicholson joins Lauryn Williams on the podcast. Carrie is a business manager who enjoys all things money and wealth. Before quitting her job to become full-time self-employed for the past decade, she was a tax accountant and Certified Bookkeeper. In 2018, she sold her first finance blog, Careful Cents, for nearly six figures. Today, she owns multiple online businesses including a YouTube channel about cash budgeting and a Colorado travel blog. Today Carrie will share with us more about where her interest in finances came from and how she uses her personal financial story to create income while helping others. In This Episode, They Discuss: The balance of serving, ministry, and earning in income The trade school option to get into accounting How she built and sold a finance blog for freelancers How she and her husband are building a travel blog with the intention to sell Budgeting, emergency funds, and creating a savings plan Cash stuffing and savings challenges Mentioned Resources: Natalie Bacon, Financial Coach If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to connect further with Carrie Nicholson: Instagram: @carrieconsiders YouTube: @carrieconsiders  

Summer is here, kids are out of school, people are headed out on vacations, and it’s the time of year when scarcity mindset starts to set in for many. Podcast host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams shares how this is playing out in her own life right now. She’s also jumping back into the podcast archives to bring back one of her favorite episodes to address scarcity mindset and financial literacy to help change the trajectory of where you want to go financially. In the episode, Lauryn and guest Claudia Steer discuss: What it’s like living with a scarcity mindset. What it means to be “house poor” and the importance of understanding your mortgage options. The “good debt vs bad debt” myth. The importance of financial literacy when it comes to things like student loans, 401k, and financial planning. The fact that financial mistakes don’t always equal frivolous spending.   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams   If you want to share your money memoir on the podcast, contact us at [email protected].

The Worth Listening podcast is excited to get back to sharing money memoirs. Listening to the money stories of others allows us to learn from the experience and unique perspectives of others. Sean Johnson-Sippial joins host Lauryn Williams on the podcast to share his money memoir.  Sean is a self-proclaimed Bitcoin evangelist who found Bitcoin in 2016 and hasn’t looked back. In this episode, Lauryn and Sean talk about: The common theme of entrepreneurship that ran throughout his childhood His drive to keep his money and the importance of delayed gratification How he fell into Bitcoin as it was emerging What Bitcoin is and how it started The risk tolerance of Bitcoin and how it compares with other investments The importance of having an investment thesis Why he’s choosing to focus on Bitcoin in the current economic climate If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams You can further connect with Sean on Twitter: @stakamoto21 If you want to share your money memoir on the podcast, contact us at [email protected].

It’s time for a Worth Listening update. There are a lot of exciting things in store for the remainder of 2023 and moving forward. Host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams, is sharing where the podcast is headed and exciting pivots in her financial planning company, Worth Winning. In this episode, Lauryn talks about: The return of additional guests and money memoirs to the podcast Where you can find Lauryn & Chloe continuing to break down financial planning How a financial retreat can help you organize your finances along with the 2023 locations and what you can expect for 2024 retreats (hint-hint: 2024 locations are being released soon so you can plan early!) Workplace financial wellness services Money school returning as a 6-week course in October Why it’s time for millennials to get their finances in order If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to share your money memoir on the podcast, contact us at [email protected]. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Financial Checkup Corporate Financial Wellness Services Lauryn is hosting two Welcome to Wealth financial retreats this summer for young professional women. Want to go on an adventure and create a financial plan for your life? Learn more at the links below. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. Credit is a super popular topic. And there’s a myth that because you have good credit, you’re in good financial health. Chloe and Lauryn constantly see people getting taken advantage of by people on social media, promising to help others fix their credit. Your credit score is not the end-all-be-all, and good credit doesn’t mean you have good financial habits. So, Chloe and Lauryn are going behind the numbers to help you understand what you need to know about credit. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The BIG myth around your credit score The details about your credit report and credit score What “good” credit actually means, and what it can do for you Why a good credit score isn’t an indicator of financial health How to check your credit report three times a year & why you should Types of credit How to be smart with credit What to think about before “credit card hacking”   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams   If you want to connect further with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore   Shared quote:  “It’s foolish to buy something that’s overpriced; more foolish, if it’s unnecessary; and even more foolish, to buy it on credit.” ― Mokokoma Mokhonoana     RESOURCES MENTIONED: Annual Credit Report I'm a financial planner, and I think my credit-score obsessed clients are focusing on the wrong thing Credit Scores & Credit Monitoring What is a FICO score?   Lauryn is hosting two Welcome to Wealth financial retreats this summer for young professional women. Want to go on an adventure and create a financial plan for your life? Learn more at the links below. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. Is generational wealth really as good as we think it is? 70% of wealthy families lose their wealth within one generation, while 80% of today’s millionaires made their money on their own. If you want to create generational wealth in your family, Lauryn and Chloe are sharing what you need to know about creating generational wealth and helping your future generations retain it.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The definition of “generational wealth” Major challenges to building generational wealth Importance of gaining financial literacy Why you shouldn’t be afraid to educate yourself & invest in financial literacy Simple financial skills you can teach your children Dealing with the obligation of giving money to family Impact of the wage gap on generational wealth How to make the most of income increases Negotiating your income Why estate plans are essential What entrepreneurs need to know about building generational wealth If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to connect further with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote:  “Money isn’t about buying bigger and better things. It’s about being prepared to take care of your family.” – Unknown  RESOURCES MENTIONED: Boomers have more wealth ‘than any other generation,’ but millennials may not inherit as much as they hope Negotiate Anything Podcast Worth Listening Episode #112: First Generation Wealth Builders Tax Lauryn is hosting two Welcome to Wealth financial retreats this summer for young professional women. Want to go on an adventure and create a financial plan for your life? Learn more at the links below. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. Socially responsible investing is a trendy topic, but many are overlooking the positive impact of spending with purpose. Lauryn and Chloe are sharing ways you can be more intentional with your spending and finances  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The importance of incorporating your core values and goals into your financial plan Ways to support small businesses and local businesses The impact of keeping your money within your community (and how you can define what your community is) Realigning your spending and socially responsible investing Questions to ask yourself before spending money with a company How to be intentional about your giving Things to think about when you want to tithe and being a good steward of your money Other ways you can give if you can’t give financially Questions to ask yourself so you can spend more intentionally Setting an example of your children in how you spend If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to connect further with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote:  “Too many people spend money they haven’t earned to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.” – Will Rogers “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” ― Winston Churchill RESOURCES MENTIONED: 56% of Americans Donated to Charity in 2021, at Average of $574 6 Simple Rules on Spending Money Intentionally Is Minimalism an Indicator of Financial Stability? How Much Should You Give to Charity? How I Created My Own Charitable Giving Plan Lauryn is hosting two Welcome to Wealth financial retreats this summer for young professional women. Want to go on an adventure and create a financial plan for your life? Learn more at the links below. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023

Lauryn is hosting two Welcome to Wealth financial retreats this summer for young professional women. Want to go on an adventure and create a financial plan for your life? Learn more at the links below. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023 Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. Are you thinking about working with a financial planner but don’t know where to start? Chloe and Lauryn are sharing what you need to know about working with a financial professional. They’re talking all about what kind of financial professional you should work with and how to know when you’re ready to work with one.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: What financial planners do and how they help you When you need to start working with a financial planner and why it’s before you have a bunch of extra money to invest The types of financial planners in the industry   6 questions to ask yourself when thinking about working with a financial planner How a financial planner can help you when making major life decisions Signs you’re not ready to work one-on-one with a financial planner Things to avoid when working with a financial planner The terms to learn before finding a financial planner   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams   If you want to connect further with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore   Shared quote:  “To profit from good advice requires more wisdom than to give it.” - Wilson Mizner “Change is painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.” - Mandy Hale   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Questions to Ask a Financial Planner Three Overlooked Benefits Of Working With A Financial Advisor The value of working with a financial advisor 7 red flags that signal it may be time to dump your financial adviser in 2023 XY Planning Network Fee Only Network The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA)  

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. The way you think about money can be a major obstacle to hitting your financial goals. So Chloé and Lauryn are talking about money mindset. They’re going to share what you can do to clean up your money mindset, hit the refresh button, and give yourself a mindset of abundance so you can build wealth.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: How to self-assess your money mindset The impact past money messages have on your current money mindset How your financial wins and losses from last year impact you today What is getting in your way of reaching your money goals Different approaches to your spending decisions How the people around you impact your money mindset How your finances affect your physical and mental health Creating your definition of financial security How continuously wanting more prevents you from long-term progress The three Kinder questions that can give you a different perspective on your finances and life   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams   If you want to connect further with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore   Shared quote:  “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” -Oprah Winfrey   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Episode #126: Achieving Mental Wealth with Guest Rich Jones Episode #127: Wealth and Wellness with Money Mindset Coach Jacent Wamala Episode #145: How Anxiety, Self-Esteem, and Stress Impact Your Finances, with Aja Evans Episode #110: Buildling Wealth & Financial Behavior with Dr. Sara Fallaw Episode #156: Saving for Retirement The friendship wealth gap How Your Childhood Friends Can Influence Your Rise to Wealth   Explore attending a Welcome to Wealth financial retreat with Lauryn Williams in 2023. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. Are you considering the opportunity costs of your decisions? Maybe lifestyle creep is keeping you in the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. Are you about to turn 40 and haven’t started saving for retirement yet? Or maybe you have sticker shock over hiring a financial planner, so you’re trying to DIY your financial plan.  Time is money, so Chloé and Lauryn share the areas you need to pay attention to so it doesn’t cost you much more in the long run.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: How to fight lifestyle creep so you can save more with each raise   Why you want to start saving for retirement as soon as possible   The impact of compound interest on your retirement savings   How DIYing your financial plan can cost you a lot more than working with a financial planner   The ways a financial planner can help you save money and optimize your finances If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote:  ​​“'Someday' is a disease that will take your dreams to the grave with you.”  – Timothy Ferriss RESOURCES MENTIONED: The Real Cost of Not Investing Young The 75% Rule for Lifestyle Creep & Early Retirement Feel Financially Stuck? Here’s Why — and How to Move Forward Episode 107: Planning for a Financial Windfall Behind the Numbers: Saving for Retirement Explore attending a Welcome to Wealth financial retreat with Lauryn Williams in 2023. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023  

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. Are you thinking about quitting your job to start a business? Lauryn and Chloe are sharing behind the numbers of starting a business and what you need to think about before quitting your nine-to-five.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: How much money the majority of small business owners are actually making The statistics around how many small businesses fail and why Types of small businesses most likely to fail How to get your financial house in order before starting a business Knocking out your debt before quitting your job Types of “emergencies” that entrepreneurs may face The need to replace your employee benefits like health insurance How much extra you need to make to “match” your employee income The importance of considering your startup costs and the cost of running your business Outsourcing vs doing it yourself Business projections and professionals who can help you manage your business finances   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams   If you want to connect further with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore   Shared quote:  “Ideas are easy. Implementation is hard.”  –Guy Kawasaki, Alltop Co-Founder and Entrepreneur   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Episode 106: "Know Better. Do Better. Series" Are You Ready to Start a Business   Explore attending a Welcome to Wealth financial retreat with Lauryn Williams in 2023. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023  

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. It’s time to think about paying taxes for the money you made in 2022. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé are diving into all things taxes. They find people are constantly looking for complex ideas and strategies on how to pay less taxes when there are several simple ways you can save.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The standard deduction, including what it is and how it applies to you How you can save on taxes with your employee benefits Difference between an HSA and FSA How parents can save on taxes with a dependent care FSA How your Adjusted Gross Income can lower your student loan payment Tax loss harvesting and how you can write off investment losses Who can take advantage of tax gain harvesting The total cost of home ownership vs. mortgage interest deductions What entrepreneurs and business owners need to know about taxes Importance of working with a financial planner or tax professional Why you need to think ahead with tax planning   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore  Shared quote:  “A person doesn’t know how much he has to be thankful for until he has to pay taxes on it.” - Anonymous RESOURCES MENTIONED: The IRS Is Supersizing Standard Deductions For 2023. Is That Good For Your Taxes? States That Offer the Best 529 Tax Advantages Tax Withholding Estimator Talk to Lauryn about your Student Loan Plan Behind the Numbers: Homeownership vs Renting, With Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore Explore attending a Welcome to Wealth financial retreat with Lauryn Williams in 2023. Medellin, Colombia July 2023 Bali, Indonesia August 2023

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé dive into retirement savings. Despite all the craziness going on in the world, it’s important to prioritize getting some money in an investment account, so it can grow and work on your behalf for retirement. Lauryn and Chloe want to help you understand the numbers so you get your finances in order and work because you want to and not because you have to.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: Sabatier’s 7 levels of financial freedom Living paycheck to paycheck (and why it’s not tied to your income level) What you need to know about savings rates Why maxing out your 401(k) probably isn’t enough Using the 4% rule to plan for your retirement  The snowball effect of compound interest (and why you need to start now) How to invest in the market Why you should continue investing in the market when it’s down Finding the balance between enjoying life today and saving for the future If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore  Shared quote:  “The question isn’t at what age I want to retire, it’s at what income.” —George Foreman “The best time to start thinking about your retirement is before the boss does.” – Unknown RESOURCES MENTIONED: 7 Levels of Financial Freedom Compound Interest Calculator Every 25-year-old in America needs to see this chart right now How to Prioritize Saving, Investing, and Paying Off Debt

We are kicking off 2023 on the podcast with host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams reflecting on 2022 and sharing her goals for the business and on what’s in store for Worth Winning and the Worth Listening podcast for the new year. Lauryn shares more about: What motivates her in the world of financial planning The pivot Worth Winning made in its service offerings to focus on “one-to-many” services A workplace option for bringing financial literacy to employees Upcoming 2023 Welcome to Wealth financial retreat locations Why she is focusing on empowering people in their finances Her personal goals for 2023 What’s coming up in the podcast throughout 2023 Learn more about the upcoming Welcome to Wealth retreats: Welcome to Wealth retreats Top 3 Worth Listening podcast episodes of 2023  Millionaire Series: The Two Rules of Wealth Building with Jeremy Schneider Millionaire Series: How A Single Mom Hit Millionaire Status and Retired in her 40’s Millionaire Series: Debt-Free and a Millionaire by 31, with Steven Stack If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé discuss a purchase people make that often puts them in a hole they don’t need to be in—buying a new car. End-of-the-year car sales are here, but do you really need a new car?  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: Pros and cons of leasing a vehicle The additional expenses of leasing a car Pros and cons of buying a vehicle Things to consider about monthly payments Why Lauryn and Chloe are driving older cars The importance of a fund for car maintenance If “no money down” is really a good deal or not How to save to buy your car with cash Considerations for buying an electric car How to calculate how much you can afford when buying a car Tips for buying a new or used car If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote:  “I had more clothes than I had closets, more cars than garage space, but no money.” -Sammy Davis, Jr.

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé are talking about budgeting for big expenses. It’s the holidays, and all kinds of expenses are coming out of the woodwork that will be hitting at the start of the new year. Lauryn and Chloé are sharing tips to help you create a 2023 budget that supports your life and watch out for common pitfalls. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The impact of recession fatigue on gen z Why financial planners are always pushing to build an emergency fund How much you need in your emergency fund The difference between emergency expenses and unplanned expenses Tips to save for traveling Why you need a buffer in your budget How to tell people you don’t have money in the budget when they ask you to do something Importance of budgeting for car and home repairs (even if they are new) Budgeting for your pets Planning for routine medical expenses and saving for your deductible Tools to help you budget Why you want to be cautious of the monthly payment trap If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote:  “All days are not the same. Save for a rainy day. When you don't work, savings will work for you.” - M.K. Soni “A simple fact that is hard to learn is that the time to save money is when you have some.” - Joe Moore  RESOURCES MENTIONED: Americans are suffering from ‘recession fatigue,’ report finds I'm a financial planner, and there are 5 tricks I share with clients who want to save more than 20% of their income Episode 111: 3 Big Expenses Impacting Your Ability to Build Wealth A financial planner explains how to budget for unexpected expenses, like a medical emergency or holiday travel

Welcome to Round 2 of the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They will take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé are talking about finances and relationships. It’s commonly known that money is one of the leading causes of divorces. People come into relationships in different financial situations and with different levels of financial knowledge. Getting on the same page about your finances is crucial. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: What financial questions you should ask your partner before getting serious The way your upbringing impacts your financial expectations and how they may differ from your partner’s expectations The role that shared financial goals play in a relationship The importance of not hiding your debt from your partner Financial red flags to look for in your relationship How to manage finances together when you earn different incomes How to merge finances as a couple and problems that can arise if you don’t The difference between a breadwinner and a deadbeat How adding kids to the relationship impacts your finances  Things to think about if you’re the breadwinner in the relationship Why estate planning is a must-do for couples and parents If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore  Shared quote: “Don’t fight about money because after you’ve said mean things to each other, the amount of money in the bank will be the same.” – Anonymous RESOURCES MENTIONED: Why Many Single Women Without Children Are So Happy Women Who Stay Single and Don’t Have Kids Are Getting Richer 6 Money Conversations to Have Before Getting Hitched + Red Flags 84 Financial Questions to Ask Your Partner The Millionaire Next Door 10 Common Estate Planning Mistakes Millennials Make

Welcome to Round 2 of the  “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They are going to take you behind the numbers with real-life examples of financial situations to help you gain confidence and clarity to control your financial destiny. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé are showing behind the numbers of renting vs buying a home. While many people think they are going to save money if they buy a house instead of paying rent, that’s not always the case. You will learn the important things to think about and what the numbers really look like. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The real costs of buying a house How being approved for a mortgage doesn’t necessarily mean you can afford it Why “new construction” doesn’t mean no additional maintenance expenses Why your mortgage payment may not stay the same for 30 years Things to consider before deciding to buy a house The expenses involved in selling a house The importance of thinking about your other expenses and goals when thinking about homeownership If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore  Shared quote: “Successful homeownership is not just putting people in homes, it's also making sure people keep their homes.” -Michelle Collins RESOURCES MENTIONED: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Home Buyers I'm a financial planner, and there are only a few situations where I recommend homeownership to my clients I'm a financial planner, and I think renting is a much smarter choice than buying a home for many people Mortgage Calculator

Do you want to learn how to balance living an epic life today with having a financially secure tomorrow? Certified Financial Planner, founder of Wonder Wealth, and travel enthusiast, Jonathan Grannick joins Lauryn Williams on the show today to tell his money memoir.  Jonathan shares financial stories from his pursuit to live a life of options instead of limitations, including how his values changed as he traveled the world, what he learned about happiness during his time as a digital nomad, and the formula for the best money he’s ever spent. You can learn more about Jonathan at wonderwealthfp.com. For more young money-maker financial tips, subscribe to Worth Listening on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts and visit worth-winning.com. Join the wait list for Welcome to Wealth Retreats at worth-winning.com/financial-retreats.

How do you get started in Venture Capital? Super Bowl champion, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Next Play Capital, Ryan Nece joins Lauryn Williams on the show today to tell his money memoir and VC journey.  Ryan shares why relationships are the key to unlocking doors in the VC world, the one money-saving hack he regrets from his college days, where to find investors, and the steps anyone can take to get started in the world of Venture Captial.  You can learn more about Next Play Capital at nextplaycapital.com. For more young money-maker financial tips, subscribe to Worth Listening on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts and visit worth-winning.com. Twitter: https://twitter.com/nextplaycapital

How do you know if you’re making a good investment? We’re excited to have Joe Briggs join Lauryn Williams on the podcast to continue our Venture Capital series.  Joe earned his undergrad degree on a football scholarship at Texas Christian University. When a car accident ended any chance he had of playing in the NFL he continued his studies earning a Master's degree at Florida A&M University and a law degree from FSU College of Law. Joe has more than 20 years of experience in public policy, education, and advocacy on the national landscape. He is also an angel investor and small business owner, leveraging capital through TJC Ventures towards interests in the sports tech space. When he is not advocating for your favorite athletes he is likely teaching, speaking and training youth and aspiring change-makers on subjects ranging from politics to sports and everything in between.  In This Episode, We Discuss: An important lesson he learned as a child watching his grandfather work as fruit picker and why he’s carried it with him all these years Why he started looking for college scholarships while in elementary school His surprising path to a college football scholarship The importance of doing your due diligence before making an investment What he does so he can be willing to invest and risk losing money What an “investment thesis” is and why every investor needs one Connect with Joe: nclracing.com   If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams.com.

Are you looking for a clear cut path into the Venture Capital world? Co-founders of Debut Capital, Pilar Johnson and Bobak Emamian join Lauryn Williams on the show to share their journey into Venture Capital and the main lessons they have learned along the way. They share why you need to be willing to learn as you go, the importance of finding people with complementary skill sets, and why you need to be open to receiving feedback along the way.  Learn more about Pilar, Bobak, and Debut Capital at debutcapital.com For more young money maker financial tips, subscribe to Worth Listening on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts and visit worth-winning.com.

We’re kicking off the Worth Listening Venture Capital Series! Worth Listening host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Wiliams will be interviewing professionals involved in the VC world on the podcast so we can hear their money memoirs. The first guest on the series is Kendrick Trotter. Kendrick is a former Division I Football player, was captain of the University of Idaho 2016 Bowl Team, and a former major account rep of the public cyber security company Radware. But even with those accomplishments, that’s not why he’s on the podcast today.  Kendrick is joining us for the VC series because of his journey to his current position as the Founder and CEO of Us in Technology. His passion for helping underrepresented people connect with careers in the tech industry led him to enter the startup world.  If you are running a startup or have ever thought about trying to get started, this is for you! Kendrick doesn’t hold anything back and shares what he’s learned along the way including how he started building his network, why he had to take a step back to move forward, and what changes he had to make in life when giving up a multiple-six figure income to pursue building his own company. In This Episode We Discuss: Why he has intentionally taken steps backward multiple times throughout life in order to move forward How a simple conversation with an Uber rider changed the course of his life The importance of growing your network and how to get started when you don’t have the right people in your network Why you need to prioritize learning over earning How an unexpected “conflict of interest” propelled his startup journey forward Why you can’t compare your journey to the journey of others What resources exist to help startups other than money The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people What role traction plays as an underrepresented founder Why you need to dream without limits You can learn more about Kendrick and Us In Technology in the following places: Website: usintechnology.com Instagram: @usintech Twitter: @usintechnology LinkedIn: @us-in-technology If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today’s guest is Aja Evans, also known as the ‘feel-good financial therapist.” Aja is a board-certified therapist who specializes in financial therapy. Since having her own financial enlightenment which transformed how she thought and felt about money, she is determined to empower people to take control of their financial journey beginning with evaluating how their past experiences impact their financial decisions. Aja specializes in identifying how anxiety, self-esteem, and stress impact financial wellness. Today Aja will share with us more about how your relationship with money impacts all facets of life including how you feel emotionally and physically. In This Episode We Discuss: How Aja went from quitting her counseling job and traveling Europe to deciding to specialize in financial therapy What certifications you should look for when finding a financial therapist to work with The role past financial trauma can play in how we handle money What you should do instead of shopping if spending money is how you cope The problems of being an excessive saver The impact self-esteem has on our finances How to avoid that awkward moment that comes when splitting a group check at the restaurant  You can learn more about Aja Evan on her Instagram channel, connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her website: ajaevanscounseling.com If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams And there is still time to reserve your spot at one of our Welcome to Wealth boot camps taking place in Dallas, TX, and Bermuda Dunes, CA, in September.

This week Lauryn is traveling, but giving us an update on what to expect in the coming weeks, including a new series that's gearing up to start soon! Be sure you're Following and Subscribed to the podcast so you won't miss it! If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We are halfway through 2022, which makes it the perfect time for host Lauryn Williams to share an update on what’s taken place so far this year and the exciting plans that are in store for Worth Winning and the Worth Listening podcast for the second half of the year.   Lauryn is going to share more about: Why time is our most valuable commodity and the event that brought this to light for her in 2022 The exciting travel goal that she achieved in May and where else she’s trying to travel to before the year is over How she got started in the world of venture capital Why she’s spending 5 weeks in Columbia Worth Listening podcast statistics and what countries top the download list The financial boot camps, retreats, and the online program that are coming up this year What new series are coming up in the podcast (Spoiler Alert! There is a Venture Capital series coming with some dope guests, and then Chloé Moore is coming back at your request for round two of the Know Better, Do Better series)  Learn more about the upcoming Welcome to Wealth events and programs: 12-Week online program Financial Bootcamp in Dallas, Texas in September 2022 Financial Bootcamp in Bermuda Dunes, CA in September 2022 Top 3 Worth Listening podcast episodes Episode #24: The Ultimate Financial Comeback Story with Marques Ogden Episode #18: The Importance of Asking Questions and Having a Realistic Budget with DJ Wiliams Episode #1: Pro Players Beware - Callin’ is Expensive with Clinton Portis Top 3 Worth Listening podcast episodes of 2022  Episode 133: Millionaire Series: How A Single Mom Hit Millionaire Status and Retired in her 40’s Episode #135 Millionaire Series: The Two Rules of Wealth Building with Jeremy Schneider Episode #134 Millionaire Series: Debt-Free and a Millionaire by 21 with Steven Stack  If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today's guest on the Worth Listening podcast is Sam Acho. Sam is a nine-year NFL veteran, writer, public speaker, and humanitarian. In addition to his work as an ESPN sports analyst, Sam speaks widely at colleges, events, conferences, and churches. He is the founder and president of Athletes for Justice and the Director of Impact at AWM Capital. Sam served as vice president of the NFL Players Association and is currently an ambassador for International Justice Mission. Sam has a truly unique and refreshing perspective on money and one a lot of people don’t expect from a former professional athlete. Growing up with Nigerian parents, Sam was able to travel between and see the differences of life in a Nigerian village and attending the top-rated private school in the states. This perspective has helped shape his perception of money and life in many ways throughout his life. Today Sam will share with us more about the two different financial worlds he grew up experiencing and how they helped shape the way he thinks about money.  In This Episode We Discuss: The differences Sam noticed between life in a Nigerian village vs living in the states Why money is a tool to live the life you want Sam and Lauryn’s personal definitions of wealth What you can do if you don’t have the money for the experiences you want to have Why his multi-year, multi-million dollar contract was life-changing in a different way than he expected How “being a jack of all trades” can create new opportunities What Sam and his wife are doing with their finances to impact the world You can learn more about Sam and what he’s doing on social media. You can also order his book Let the World See You here.  Instagram: @thesamacho Facebook @thesamacho Twitter @thesamacho If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Learn about Lauryn's upcoming webinar "Death, Dollars, and Daiquiris: Estate Planning for Young Money Makers” Today’s guest on the Worth Listening podcast is Peter Figaro. Peter is one of Lauryn’s friends and an early millennial who retired at 40 years old. His story is a great example of why it can be a good thing to take advantage of the benefits that a job can offer instead of going after the sexy trend of entrepreneurship.  Not only was he able to retire in his 40s, but he purchased his first home at 25 years old. He has closed on four homes and has built himself a real estate portfolio. Part of his investments includes an Airbnb he has successfully run for five years without a problem. In This Episode Lauryn and Peter Discuss: Why Peter dropped out of college How he took advantage of his full-time job and benefits to retire at 40  Why he got started with real estate investing The importance of having someone on your team to help with repairs when owning real estate Lauryn’s horror stories of owning and renting Airbnbs Peter’s tips for successfully running an Airbnb business and his advice for Lauryn  You can learn more about Peter and his Airbnb on Instagram @pfigaro46 If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

The FIRE movement may be trendy but that doesn’t mean you need to jump on trends to build wealth and retire early. Today financial coach April Stewart is joining the podcast to share her unsexy millionaire journey with us. She grew up in a low-income household and spent the first part of her career living paycheck to paycheck with minimal savings. After experiencing a major financial setback, she persevered and started taking steps to build a strong financial foundation. Before she realized that it happened, she hit millionaire status.  April retired early and has shared her story in outlets such as Forbes, Business Insider, Black Enterprise, and AfroTech. She teaches women how to build wealth via her coaching program, speaking engagements, and workshops.  In This Episode We Discuss: The fear-based money mindset April grew up with The impact that surrounding yourself with the right people can have on your future and your finances The financial setback that ended up helping her get on the right track How short term sacrifice lead to long term gain and what she gave up for a short time to pay off debt and build an emergency fund The one thing she likes to spend money on What investment strategy April used to build her wealth The importance of the financial example we set without knowing it for those around us Mentioned Resources: April’s FREE Millionaire Money Checklist You can learn more about April on her website at aprilthemoneycoach.com or on social media: Instagram @aprilthemoneycoach Facebook @AprilTheMoneyCoach  LinkedIn @aprilthemoneycoach If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We are continuing the Worth Listening Millionaire Series today with Joe Saul-Sehy. Joe is the creator and co-host of the award-winning Stacking Benjamins podcast and the co-author (with Emily Guy Birken) of the new hit book STACKED: Your Super Serious Guide to Modern Money Management. While Joe is known for being a financial expert and was once known as the “money man” in media, his career started out as a financial advisor who wasn’t taking his own advice. He’s going to share with us the low moment in his financial life when he realized it was time to make some changes and what he did to turn things around. In This Episode We Discuss: How he first got into debt while in college The moment he realized he needed to make changes in his life Why it’s not about how much you make but what you do with what you make The importance of surrounding yourself with smart people and how to find the right people The different professionals that can help you at the different stages of your financial journey Why he left a career as a financial advisor and how he eventually got into podcasting How his book STACKED: Your Super Serious Guide to Modern Money Management is different from other financial guides A simple exercise you can do to help prioritize your financial goals The importance of doing some research into your goals before determining what risk level you should be at If you’re interested in joining Lauryn’s STACKED BOOK CLUB, sign up here! Mentioned Resources: Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative You can learn more about Joe, his podcast, and book at stackingbenjamins.com and follow him on social media at the links below.   Instagram @stackingbenjaminspodcast Facebook @istackbenjamins Twitter @averagejoemoney If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We are rolling along with our Millionaire Series this week with guest L. Renee Whaley here to share her money memoir with us. L. Renee hit millionaire status in 2021 after paying off $75k worth of debt, and two mortgages including an investment property. While continuing to work in corporate America, she is also a financial coach who helps individuals and families customize strategies to live debt-free along with assisting scholars with finding scholarships so they can attend college debt-free. She is also the author of A Journey to Financial Fortitude: How I Paid Off $75k, Went to College Debt-Free, and Paid Off My Mortgage! In This Episode We Discuss: The strategy she used to find scholarships to pay for college How she ended up in $75k worth of debt How she used the debt snowball concept to become debt-free Whey she decided to pay off two mortgages instead of putting her money to work in other areas The importance of utilizing your 401k and meeting the employer match Why she decided to hire her kids and how it’s helping everyone financially Why she decided to write her book even though it wasn’t something she had ever planned on doing Why she started working as a financial coach The importance of helping people see that millionaire status and debt-free living is for anyone You can learn more about L. Renee and her book at financialfortitudellc.com and follow her on social media;  Instagram @ffortitudellc Facebook @financialfortitudellc If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today we are taking a break from the Millionaire Series to focus on financial transparency. April is financial literacy month. The entire purpose of the Worth Listening podcast is to help spread financial literacy and host Lauryn Williams wants to share her imperfect financial journey with you to show that we are all in this together.  Joining Lauryn on the podcast is her friend and fellow financial planner, Ben Martinek. Ben runs two financial companies called Bona Fide Finance and Student Loan Tax Experts. He is also the host of the FI Entrepreneur podcast. Martinek In this episode, Ben is going to interview Lauryn about her 2021 financial review and what changes she is making this year. In This Episode We Discuss: The importance of tracking your spending  The downfalls of trying to save too much   What tool Lauryn uses to track her spending and budget If Lauryn succeeded or failed at her 2021 goals The importance of having financial accountability Why we can pretend or justify when it comes to our numbers The importance of self-care and what Lauryn is focused on in 2022 You can learn more about Ben and how you can work with him at bonafidefinance.com and studentloantaxexperts.com. If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We’re excited to be continuing the Worth Listening Millionaire Series! Over the next couple of months, Worth Listening host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Wiliams, will be interviewing millionaires on the podcast so we can hear their money memoirs and what they did to reach that coveted millionaire status. Today on the podcast is Walli Miller. Walli is the founder of Financially Thriving where she works as a money coach to help other women experience the same financial transformation in their lives that she experienced in her own life.  Walli is a first-generation college graduate and daughter of an immigrant who spent her 20s spending every dollar she earned while saving very little. She thought she was doing well because she kept her bills paid and didn’t have credit card debt. But she had two AHA moments that turned her finances around. Now she has a millionaire dollar portfolio and is on the way to being work-optional by the age of 40!  In This Episode We Discuss: How the financial situation she grew up in caused a money mindset that led to her spending everything she made after paying the bills in her 20s The AHA moment she experienced when looking at her social security earnings statement What happened at work that helped her realize she didn’t have financial freedom The sacrifices she made in college and housing throughout the years that helped her get to where she is now How lifestyle creep steals your money and ability to build wealth The importance of understanding your financial numbers The balance of reducing expenses and bringing in more income How she and her husband saved 45% of their income while living in NYC Her principle of “Cut the FATT”  What Financial Independence really means Why you need to do the math instead of just aiming for $1 million How she overcomes the “wealth guilt” she experiences from outearning her family members   You can learn more about Walli and her work as a financial coach on her website: financiallythriving.com or on Instagram at financially_thriving. If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We’re excited to continue the Worth Listening Millionaire Series with another inspiring story. Worth Listening host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Wiliams, has been interviewing millionaires on the podcast so we can hear their money memoirs and what they did to reach that coveted millionaire status. Today on the podcast, Jeremy Schneider of the Personal Finance Club is here to share his money memoir with us. Jeremy is a successful entrepreneur and personal finance expert. After starting an internet company in college and selling it at the age of 34 for over $5M, he retired at 36. Since then, Jeremy has dedicated his life to teaching personal finance. He founded Personal Finance Club, a community of champions of the individual investor who help further financial education.   In This Episode We Discuss: The importance of having awareness around student loan debt How lifestyle creep can ruin people’s finances What the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship looked like as he built his business The persistence it takes to succeed at running and growing a business How much he actually lived off of when his company’s revenue hit a million dollars Why he was driving a 16-year-old vehicle when he sold his company and became a millionaire The different methods of business valuation when selling a company Why it all starts with spending less than you earn and investing early and often Why there are no shortcuts Financial failures and that everyone makes them Why he has a “boring” portfolio and the strategy he used for investing his money What motivates him to share his millionaire story with others You can learn more about Jeremy and Personal Finance Club at .personalfinanceclub.com or on social media at: Instagram: @personalfinanceclub TikTok @personalfinanceclub YouTube Personal Finance Club If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We’re continuing the Worth Listening Millionaire Series! Over the next couple of months, Worth Listening host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Wiliams, will be interviewing millionaires on the podcast so we can hear their money memoirs and what they did to reach that coveted millionaire status. Next up in the series is Steven Stack, Financial Coach & CFEI, speaker and author of the book Simple Money Talks.  Steven became a debt free millionaire when he was just 31 years old. Through a combination of of smart money management and investing, primarily through the stock market and real estate, Steven set out to become “retireable” by the age of 45. And before you jump into thinking this was only able to happen for him because he is a financial coach, that’s not where his journey started.  In This Episode We Discuss: The building blocks he learned at an early age that set him on the right path Why his dream school was the one he could reasonably afford and how he graduated with money in the bank instead of student loans The Denzel Washington movie quote that got him investing in real estate How and why he started maxing out his retirement savings when he first started working The importance of connecting with people and learning from others Why passive income isn’t really passive and what the narrative should be instead How he paid off his mortgage in 3 years The importance of understanding how each party in a deal makes money before getting involved How he got started in real estate investing   Why the most important consideration when buying a house isn’t how much you are approved for The difference that focusing on increasing your income can make in your finances The importance of not upgrading your lifestyle when your income increases   You can learn more about Steven at stevenlstack.com and follow him on social media at the links below. Check out his book Simple Money Talks. Instagram @stackingwithstack Facebook @stackingwithstack Twitter @stevenlstack TikTok @stackingiwthstack If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

We’re kicking off the Worth Listening Millionaire Series! Over the next couple of months, Worth Listening host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Wiliams, will be interviewing millionaires on the podcast so we can hear their money memories and what they did to reach that coveted millionaire status. The first guest on the series is Jackie Cummings Kosk. She is sharing her story of how she overcame poverty, divorce and single motherhood, to reach financial independence and retire early from her corporate job while still in her 40s, all while making less than six figures a year.  Jackie is the author of the book, “Money Letters 2 my Daughter”, which was a 2013 winner of the Excellence in Financial Literacy Education (EIFLE) Award. In 2015, she was officially recognized with a Congressional Commendation for her accomplishments in the field of financial literacy from the U.S. House of Representatives.  She now focuses on her life’s work of financial education and following her dream of creating a financially literate society. She is a life-long learner and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Personal Financial Planning and Financial Therapy. Jackie is going to share with us the impact that always trying to run from poverty had on her life and what she did after the pivotal moment of deciding she never wanted to feel financially ignorant again. Her poverty to millionaire story is so encouraging because it’s one that anyone can relate to. Her story will help break down the barriers you have to believing it’s possible for you to become a millionaire and retire early too.  In This Episode We Discuss: The impact that growing up in poverty had on her life  How joining an investment club was one of her first steps to increasing her financial literacy How to complete a net worth statement and why you need to know your net worth The importance of understanding how compound growth works and why you need to get started now  Organizing your finances to live within your means and why it’s not about hitting a 6-figure salary The importance of prioritizing work-life as a single mom  Understanding how investments can lower your tax liability How to determine how much you need to save for retirement Why financial freedom is about more than just money The importance of creating the habit of saving and investing even if you have to start small The one thing she did to hit millionaire status that a lot of people are afraid to do You can learn more about Jackie and connect with her on social media through linktree.com/moneyletters  If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today’s guest on the Worth Listening podcast is Dr. Nancy Dome. Dr. Dome is a renowned speaker, author, and equity consultant. In 2014 she co-founded Epoch Education to provide leaders in education and business with accessible professional development in diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and equity.  As an educator for nearly three decades, Dr. Dome taught in the juvenile court and community schools and has served as a Distinguished Teacher in Residence and faculty member at California State University San Marcos. Her transformative approach helps school districts and educational agencies throughout the country navigate complex topics, build bridges, and work together for inclusive, impactful change. With that long list of accomplishments it may surprise you to learn that Nancy came from very humble beginnings and her story is one that is an inspiration for all.  Today Nancy will share with us more about what a poor mentality is, how it’s not related to the amount of money in your pocket, and why it’s important to overcome it. In This Episode We Discuss: The deeper narrative many have behind the idea to “go pro” in sport and how many view it as a ticket out of poverty The importance of slowing down and making sure you have the information you need when making a decision How trying to feed the desires caused by a lack of resources and opportunities growing up can lead you to make unwise financial decisions Why you need to trust your instincts and not be afraid to change your mind The reasons she moved from the public sector to private sector and how it impacted her finances Why you need to start investing in your retirement now even if you can only do it a penny at a time The importance of getting out of survival mode Why you need people around you that will help you understand including building a team of professionals who can answer your questions and teach you what you don’t know You can learn more about Nancy and her book Let’s Talk About Race (And Other Hard Things) on her website: drnancydome.com. You can also connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.  If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Wayne Lomax is joining the conversation on the Worth Listening podcast to share his Money Memoir. Wayne comes from a long line of entrepreneurs beginning with his great-great grandfather who was born in slavery, his grandfather, his father, and now his children. In addition to serving a leading church in South Florida, Wayne is also the president of The Fountain Endowed Legacy Scholarship Fund and the Youth Development Institute. Specializing in personal development, Wayne helps people pursue their full potential. Today Wayne will share with us more about the financial lessons he learned throughout his career along with the financial advice he would share with his younger self.  In This Episode We Discuss: How Wayne’s family set an example for him on work ethics and finances The crisis that led to him realizing he needed to do something different with his finances Why we need to remember it’s always about the end game The money themes he is noticing in young professionals The importance of delayed gratification Why you should work with financial professionals who educate you instead of doing it for you The importance of having a long-term plan The financial risks young professionals should be willing to take To learn more or further connect with Wayne Lomax on Facebook and Twitter @wayneblomax. You can learn more about The Fountain of New Life Ministries here.  If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today’s guest on the Worth Listening podcast is Tianna Madison. Tianna is a 2x Olympian, 3x Olympic Gold Medalist, 3x World Champion, Author, and Yogi. Today she is sharing her personal story with us including the financial ups and downs that came with her career as a professional athlete.  While still in college, Tianna earned the opportunity to go pro in track and field. Although many people think professional athletes make lots of money, Tianna shares the story of what finances actually look like for many athletes. She shares the ups and downs of her career and what happened to her finances because she wasn’t giving it the attention it needed.  In this episode, Tianna and Lauryn talk about: How the one conversation Tianna and her parents had about college financing pushed her to excel in track and field What her finances looked like as a young professional athlete How your income in one location might not stretch as far as it will in another city or state The unexpected expenses that come with a career in sports How filing bankruptcy brought about positive change for Tianna The importance of knowing what’s going on with your finances How Tianna approached her entrepreneurial journey Buy Tianna’s memoir Survive & Advance on Amazon and follow her on Instagram  @tianna.t.madison If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Happy New Year! In this episode of Worth Listening, 4x Olympian and CFP® professional Lauryn Williams is kicking off 2022 by sharing simple and actionable tips you can use to get your finances in order this year.  In this episode, Lauryn talks about: Why you need to take a look at last year’s spending One expense we often overlook in our budgets Getting your estate planning documents in order in 2022 The need to start planning for big expenses Looking at the fees you pay on your credit cards Tax planning and finding a CPA or Enrolled Agent Credit reports and why you need to look at yours 5 things she is focusing on to win at life in 2022 If you want to share your money memoirs on the podcast or what you’d like to see on the podcast in 2022, contact [email protected] If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Happy holidays! Once again we have reached the time of year when it’s time to reflect on the current year and set goals for the upcoming year. In this episode, Worth Listening podcast host and owner of Worth Listening, Lauryn Williams, is talking about what she experienced and accomplished in her business in 2021 and where she’s headed for 2022.  In this episode, Lauryn talks about: Reflections on 2021 and what business looked like for her Her addiction to being busy and how she’s addressing it for 2022 Getting started on a big vision before you feel ready to get started Goals for her business and podcast in 2022 Why she’s prioritizing her health in the new year Her goal to become fluent in speaking Spanish The importance of learning a new way to view sales If you want to share your money memoirs on the podcast or what you’d like to see on the podcast in 2022, contact [email protected] If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams Resources: Welcome to Wealth Financial Retreats

Today’s guest is Jacent Wamala. Jacent is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist turned Money Mindset Coach and founder of Wealth & Wellness University. She also hosts the Jacent’s Gems podcast where she provides “been-there-done-that” guidance to help women of color write the best chapter of their lives. She helps women overcome debt, level up their income streams, and achieve impactful, life-changing financial freedom.  In three years, she paid off over $90,000 in credit card and student loan debt and saw the link between financial stress and mental health issues for her clients. Her goal is to help her community become aware of the limiting beliefs and fears getting in the way of their financial freedom and empower them to create a plan to reach their goals. Today Jacent shares with us steps you can take to address the root cause of your money mindset challenges so you can make lasting financial changes in your life.  In This Episode We Discuss: How calculating her net worth led to her “aha moment” Why so many people revert back to poor financial habits over and over again The importance of getting to the root cause of your negative money mindset challenges Actionable steps you can take if you’ve felt financially stuck  The importance of taking ownership for your current situation How to build the right money team Learn more about Jacent Wamala by following her on social media: Instagram: @jacentsgems Twitter: @jacentsgems Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wwustartsheree Website: https://www.wamalawellness.com/ If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams RESOURCES: Episode 125: Financial Self Care for Couples with Guest Amy Scott Episode 126: Achieving Mental Wealth with Guest Rich Jones No Excuses by Brian Tracy The Lies We Tell Ourselves by Jon Frederickson

Today’s guest is Rich Jones. Rich hosts the Paychecks & Balances podcast, where he shows you what's possible personally, professionally, and financially — all while having some fun along the way. Beyond the podcast, Rich is a Masters' athlete, mental wealth advocate, and purveyor of positive vibes. Today Rich will share his personal memory memoir with us. He shares the unusual path that led him to become a personal finance podcaster even though he doesn’t consider himself a financial expert. He will also talk about the impact his mental health has had on his finances and other areas of his life and the importance of building Mental Wealth. In This Episode We Discuss: The little efforts we can make to inspire people and change the course of their life Using the process of elimination in life to find out what the right lane is for us How the way we feel about our finances can impact other areas of our lives What it means to be Mentally Wealthy The negative role drinking and other coping mechanisms can have on every area of life including finances Why we need to stop making excuses in order to make real progress Importance of showing yourself grace and giving yourself permission to take care of yourself How to stop letting life happen to you and your finances The importance of reflecting on your life and finances to determine what you really want How “wealth” is about more than just your finances What looking at your bank statement can teach you about other areas of your life Learn more about Rich Jones by following him on social media: Instagram: @paybalances and @iamrichjones Twitter: @PayBalances and @iamrichjones Facebook: @paychecksandbalances LinkedIn: @paybalances Website: https://paychecksandbalances.com/ If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today’s guest on the Worth Listening podcast is Certified Financial Coach, author, wife, and mother Amy Scott. Amy is passionate about working with couples to help them get on the same page about money so they can live life with less conflict and more space to focus on what really matters.  Amy has taught hundreds of couples her unique budgeting system over the last seven years to help them reduce financial stress and disagreements while allowing them to pursue dreams that had previously gone unfulfilled. Self-care has become a popular topic over the last few years around our mental health, but self-care also applies to our finances. Amy shares about the tough financial decisions she and her husband made to begin living lives that aligned with what they really wanted. She shares practical tips that couples can use to practice financial self-care in their marriage and families. In this episode, Amy and Lauryn talk about: One question you and your partner can use to have productive conversations around financial needs and wants Why finances are such a huge stress for married people and couples Why you need to shift from focusing on the “shoulds” to the “whys” in your finances The importance of having curiosity around your personal finances Why you need to take the time to get clear about what you really want The biggest cause of financial stress for couples The difference that seeing the big picture makes in getting your finances in order Creative ways you can teach children about money Learn more about Amy Scott and download the 3 Simple Steps to Uplevel Your Budget on her website: amyscottcoaching.com If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams RESOURCES: Episode 98: Tackling Your Money Mindset with Guest Lindsay Bryan-Podvin Social: Facebook:  @amyscottfinancialcoaching Instagram: @amyscottfinancialcoaching Website: amyscottcoaching.com

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore are continuing the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations they have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé continue onto the final episode of a three-part series on equity compensation. Chloe specializes in working with individuals in the tech industry and those who receive equity compensation. There are a few common mistakes she sees people make so she is sharing tips to help you know better so you can do better.  In part three of this series, Lauryn and Chloé talk about Employee Stock Purchase Plans also known as ESPPs. They cover the basics along with answering your burning questions like “How long should I hold onto the stocks?” and “When does it make sense to participate?” In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé share: The basics of what an Employee Stock Purchase Plan is and how it works The limits and restrictions that come with ESPPs including the annual purchase limit How ESPPs are deducted from your paycheck after taxes Details about Lookback Provision What you need to know about taxes The risks involved What things you should consider before deciding to participate How to know when to sell and when to hold Importance of working with the right tax professional and financial planner If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore RESOURCES MENTIONED: Should You Participate in Your Company’s ESPP? Worth Listening Episode 122: Equity Compensation Part 1 Understanding RSUs Worth Listening Episode 123 Equity Compensation Part 2: ISOs and NQSOs

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore are continuing the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations they have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé are moving onto part two of a three-part series on equity compensation. Chloe specializes in working with individuals in the tech industry and those who receive equity compensation. There are a few common mistakes she sees people make so she is sharing tips to help you know better so you can do better.  In part two of this series, Lauryn and Chloé talk about stock options including ISOs (incentive stock option) and NQSOs (nonqualified stock option). The difference between the two is how they are treated from a tax standpoint. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé share: An overview of what equity compensation including what is a stock option What a stock option is and how the process works The difference between RSUs and stock options including the additional risk involved The importance of understanding the ramifications of all the decisions you need to make with stock options Why you need to think about when to buy shares and if you really even want to The consequences of buying or selling at the wrong time What a cashless exercise is and when you want to do it Why you should work with a financial planner and tax professional if you have stock options The tax liabilities involved and why you don’t want to forget about them The considerations you should be making when buying shares of a private company The importance of keeping your financial goals in mind  If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore RESOURCES MENTIONED: Worth Listening Podcast Episode 122: Equity Compensation Part 1 Understanding RSUs Salary negotiation strategies everyone in tech already knows — but you don’t Coming up next The next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, is Equity Compensation Part 3 Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPP)

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore are back for another “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations they have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé begin a three-part series on types of equity compensation, more commonly called “stock options”. Chloe specializes in working with individuals in the tech industry and those who receive equity compensation. There are a few common mistakes she sees people make so she is sharing tips to help you know better so you can do better.  In part one of this series, Lauryn and Chloé dive into RSUs (Restricted stock units). They talk about: What RSUs are and the types of jobs that offer them as equity compensation How you receive RSUs from a company The importance of understanding the terms and restrictions that may apply The tax requirements you need to know about if you receive RSUs The difference between RSUs from a public vs private company Two questions to ask yourself when deciding if you should hold onto or sell the vested stock The common mistakes people make when receiving RSUs and how to avoid making them yourself If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore RESOURCES MENTIONED: Salary negotiation strategies everyone in tech already knows — but you don’t How RSUs Can Help You Reach Your Financial Goals Worth Listening Episode 114: "Know Better, Do Better" Investing Part 2 Types of Investment Accounts Worth Listening Episode 107 ”Know Better. Do Better. Series” Planning for a Financial Windfall Coming up next The next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, is Equity Compensation Part 2 covering the stock options.

Today podcast host, financial coach and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams deep dives into talking about financial literacy and the distractions that stop people from taking control of their finances the right way.  While society tends to think that financial literacy is only a problem for low-income earners, it’s not true. Financial distractions get in the way of financial literacy for people on all ends of the earnings spectrum. If you’re not reaching your financial goals and aren’t on the path to get there, this is the episode for you! In this episode, Lauryn talks about: How financial distractions get in the way of financial literacy The importance of being able to admit what you don’t know about finances The importance of understanding what your financial goals are to identify financial distractions when they come along Common examples of financial distractions that negatively impact financial literacy Why you need to know the difference between the “right thing to do” and the “right thing for you to do” Accidental success vs intentional success The negative impact that skepticism can have on finances How distraction impacts people on both sides of the earning spectrum Why you need to get your financial basics in place before The importance of watching out for those that are trying to hold you back If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams Welcome to Wealth Interested in learning more about the Welcome to Wealth retreats or online program? Welcome to Wealth financial retreat coming to Atlanta in October 2021 Welcome to Wealth: 12-week personal finance program

Today podcast host, financial coach and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams dives into talking about financial conversations. But not just any financial conversations, she’s sharing how to answer the awkward or scary money questions people ask you. Many people were brought up with the belief that you shouldn’t talk about money with others. Lauryn will help you overcome this belief while learning ways to answer the money questions people ask in a way that leads to productive conversations.  In this episode, Lauryn shares how to answer the following money questions: What is your credit score? How can you afford that? How much debt do you have? Can I borrow some money? Or, can you give me some money? How much did you pay for that? How much money do you have? If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you’re interested in learning more about attending a Welcome to Wealth financial retreat hosted by Lauryn Williams, learn more here: Welcome to Wealth retreats Resources: How to Talk About Money with Other People: Overcoming the Awkwardness How to Have Financial Conversations that Aren't Awkward

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode, Chloé and Lauryn talk with three other CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™  to share tips on how to help women of color get ahead financially. As minority women in the financial industry, they all have experience working with other women of color and see the trends and common challenges that they face. Guests include: Rianka Dorsainvil, CFP® and co-CEO of  2050 Wealth Partners. Rianka serves as a member of CNBC's Digital Financial Advisor Council and CFP Board’s Diversity Advisory Group, is a Forbes Personal Finance Contributor, and has been recognized for her accomplishments and leadership within the industry by leading publications and organizations.  Anjali Jariwala, CPA and CFP®, is the founder of FIT Advisors - a financial planning firm serving physicians and business owners virtually across the US. Prior to launching her own firm, Anjali spent over 6 years working with Fortune 500 clients at a top 4 accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and 2 years with a large, prestigious financial planning firm serving high net worth individuals.  Angela Moore, CFP®:  Founder of Modern Money Education.  She is a passionate, outspoken financial literacy activist and has over 15 years of experience in the financial industry. Angela has served as an Executive Board Member of the Financial Planning Association of Miami and is a member of the XY Planning Network and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors. Angela was honored by Brickell Magazine as one of Miami’s Top 20 Professionals Under 40 in 2018 and by Business Insider as one of the top financial advisors for millennials.  In this episode they share: Considerations for women that are the breadwinner of the family.  Tips for handling finances in your relationship Why you need to focus on cashflow The importance of understanding how your past, family history, culture, and other elements can impact the way you think and feel about money Why you need to develop a financial plan that resonates with you  How you can continue to offer financial support to family members without breaking your budget (and why you may need to include this line in your financial plan) Scarcity vs abundance mindset Considerations for women of color in corporate settings The importance of estate planning   Shared quote: “If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies for me and eaten alive.” - Audre Lorde Resources Planning for Aging Parents Black first-generation wealth builders need to put on their own financial ‘oxygen masks’ first S01 EP05: How To Be Your Bold, Authentic Self In The World Of Financial Planning If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloe Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore If you want to further connect with Rianka Dorsainvil: Instagram: @rianka_d Twitter: @Rianka_D Facebook: @RiankaDorsainvil LinkedIn: @riankad https://www.2050wealthpartners.com/ If you want to further connect with Anjali Jariwala: Instagram: @anjalifit Twitter: @AnjaliFIT Facebook: @FITadvisors LinkedIn: @fit-advisors https://fitadvisors.com/ If you want to further connect with Angela Moore: Instagram: @modernmoneyeducation Twitter: @modernmoneyedu Facebook: @modernmoneyeducation LinkedIn: @angelamooremma http://www.modernmoney.education/

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode, Chloé and Lauryn are talking about life insurance. This is one of those financial conversations that a lot of young professionals don’t think they need to have. But you don’t get life insurance because you’re going to die, you get it because your loved ones are going to live. And even if you aren’t married and don’t have kids, Chloé and Lauryn are going to share with you some important things you need to think about when it comes to life insurance. In this episode Lauryn and Chloé cover: The real purpose of life insurance How much life insurance you really need What things in your life impact the amount of life insurance coverage you need Why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all number everyone needs to be covered for How term life insurance works How whole life insurance works and why it’s not the best choice for everyone What you need to know before borrowing against your whole life insurance When it makes sense for single individuals with no dependents  to buy life insurance What you need to know about group life insurance from your employer Where to find individuals policies for life insurance What options exist for individuals that are unable to qualify for individual life insurance due to their health history The benefits of a convertible term policy The importance of finding an insurance agent with integrity Understand how your insurance agent is getting paid and what they’re getting paid The importance of understanding what can cause your policy to lapse and why you should reevaluate it each year Shared quote: “Always plan ahead. It was not raining when Noah built the ark.” - Richard Cushing  RESOURCES: Episode 116 "Know Better, Do Better": Estate Planning with Guest Shalini Codispoti 7 scenarios where a single person might need life insurance Life Insurance Needs Calculator How Much Life Insurance Do I Need? If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. This week Lauryn and Chloé invite fellow CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and author, Nannette Kamien, to the podcast to talk about planning for college and repaying student loans.  Nannette is a financial planner at Cultivating Wealth. She previously owned her own firm and wrote the book Crazy College Money. She enjoys educating families about how to make smart financial decisions to pay for college. In addition to working with clients through her financial planning firm, Worth Winning, Lauryn is a Certified Student Loan Professional (CSLP) working with Student Loan Planner to help student loan borrowers navigate their repayment options. In this episode, Chloé interviews Lauryn and Nannette to find out what parents and students need to know about planning for college and repaying student loans. There are a lot of misconceptions out there around student loans and burying your head in the sand isn’t going to help. In part this episode Lauryn, Chloé, and Nannette talk about: Balancing saving for your children’s education while paying off your own student loans and saving for retirement Types of accounts to use for college savings When to start having conversations about paying for college with your kids and what you should share with them The importance of educating yourself on the student loan process and financing options before your child is enrolled in college (Spoiler alert: It’s not the same as when you were in college.) Common mistakes made in college planning How the financial aid system is broken and why you can’t bury your head in the sand instead of planning for it The types of student loans available and the pros and cons of the different options Student loan forgiveness  How income driven repayment plans work and what you need to know about the options including planning on paying taxes on the amount that’s forgiven Consolidating vs refinancing your student loans What you should consider if you want to go to grad school Parent+ loans RESOURCES: Student Loan Planner website: https://www.studentloanplanner.com/ Schedule your free introductory phone call with Nannette: https://cultivatingwealth.com/contact/ Worth Listening Podcast Episode #31: Don’t Be Overcome by Your Student Loan Debt with Travis Hornsby Worth Listening Podcast Episode # 58: College, Finances & Student Loans  Worth Listening Podcast Episode # 115: Renting vs Homeownership If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “It's not burn baby burn, but learn, baby, learn, so that you can earn, baby, earn.” -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. This week Lauryn and Chloé are talking all things estate planning with guest Shalini Codispoti of Codispoti Law P.C. Shalini is an estate planning attorney licensed in the state of Texas and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. She’s also a wife and most importantly a mom. With that she gained an awareness that everything we do is for the ones we love. She views estate planning as the ultimate act of love. Shalini helps her clients ensure that their loved ones stay out of court and out of conflict in the event of their passing or incapacity. Lauryn and Chloé find that a lot of their clients don’t feel that they need estate planning because they’re too young, aren’t married, don’t have kids, or aren’t rich. But Shalini shares why estate planning is for EVERYONE. In this episode Lauryn, Chloé, and Shalini talk about: What estate planning is Why EVERYONE needs estate planning (Even if you're young. Even if you’re single. Even if you don’t have kids. Even if you’re not a millionaire.) The estate planning documents you need to have in place Why you need to make some important decisions now instead of waiting The importance of having the right people in place to handle your finances if something happens to you Things to think about when choosing who to handle your medical or financial affairs What you need to know if you’re in a long-term relationship and living together but not “married” What you need to know about prenuptial agreements (Spoiler Alert - It’s not just for rich people.) How a trust helps keep your finances from being tied up in probate and the importance of funding the trust The importance of how your financial accounts are titled Estate planning recommendations for real estate investors (Another Spoiler Alert: Rental properties should not be held in your individual name.) Estate planning advice for digital nomads Documents that every parent needs to have What digital assets are and how to plan for them Why there is no one-size-fits-all estate plan for everyone Where you can go to find out if you have any unclaimed property The fact that you don’t know what you don’t know, so you need to work with an estate planning attorney If you want to further connect with Shalini Codispoti: Facebook: @codispotilawpc Email: [email protected] If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “Estate planning is more than just your wealth. It’s the legacy that you leave behind. It’s about your story… and your story matters.” RESOURCES: Find out if you have Unclaimed Property: https://unclaimed.org/search/ Shalini’s blog: https://www.codispoti-law.com/soap-box/

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. This week Lauryn and Chloé are wrapping up the Investments for Beginners series by talking about the super trendy topic of real estate investing. HGTV shows make it look really easy to make quick money by investing in real estate, but things aren’t always as they seem.   Lauryn and Chloé are going to cover some of the things that don’t get mentioned on these types of shows. While they’re not against investing in real estate, they share several important considerations that need to be made if you’re thinking about purchasing an investment property. In part three of this series, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: How owning real estate is just like running a business The importance of understanding your “why” before you invest in real estate (spoiler alert: “because it sounds like an easy way to make money” isn’t a good reason) The importance of understanding the ongoing costs of owning an investment property The potential issues that tenants can cause All the different hats you have to wear as a real estate investor (property manager, bookkeeping, etc) Why you need to run the numbers to see if the numbers actually work Deciding what type of real estate investment property you want to own House hacking Why you need to look at the Return on Investment (ROI) How it can help to talk to other investors first and ask questions about the financial side The liabilities involved in owning investment property and the insurance that you need to have (and the insurance your renter needs to have) Why you should talk to an attorney about the right legal structure for you The importance of estate planning if you own investment property If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: "Real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away. Purchased with common sense, paid for in full, and managed with reasonable care, it is about the safest investment in the world." -Franklin D. Roosevelt RESOURCES MENTIONED: Worth Listening Podcast Episode 113: Investment Series Part 1 - Understanding the Basics Worth Listening Podcast Episode 114: Investment Series Part 2 - Types of Investment Accounts Worth Listening Episode 96: Real Estate Investing is a Get Rich Slow Strategy with Sunitha Rao Worth Listening Episode 95: Building Wealth Through Real Estate Investing with Justine Chan Worth Listening Episode 94: Episode 94: House Hacking & Real Estate Investing, with Andrew Kerr Some landlords sell properties as CDC extends eviction ban How to Vet an Investment Property: Cap Rates, Cash-on-Cash Returns and More Coming up next The next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series is all about estate planning with Shalini Codispoti.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé continue the Investments for Beginners series by explaining the different types of investment accounts. A lot of people end up following the investment trends which can cause them to miss some important steps in preparing for their financial future.  They explain with detail some of the main types of investment accounts and how to know which one you should be investing in. If you’re new to investing or have been investing and aren’t sure you really know what you’re doing, this is a great place to start.  In part two of this series, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The three major categories of investment accounts The importance of understanding how you’ll be taxed to avoid a potential nightmare at tax time The difference between taxable, tax deferred, and tax free  Understanding the pros and cons of pre tax vs post tax investments Why you want to have a diverse portfolio The importance of understanding the right way to do rollovers How to prioritize between savings, paying off debt, and investing What percentage of your income you should be saving  The importance of determining what makes the most sense for you instead of following along with everyone else Getting rich slowly If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: "If you can’t manage $1,000, you can’t manage $10,000. Financial literacy is not a side effect of wealth. Wealth is a side effect of financial literacy.”  RESOURCES MENTIONED: 5 Money Lessons to Gain from the Basecamp Saga A financial planner explains how much you should put in your FSA vs. your HSA before the end of the year How to Prioritize Saving, Investing, and Paying Off Debt I'm a financial planner, and I think most people are better off skipping a Roth 401(k) Should You Participate in Your Company’s ESPP? Coming up next The next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, is Investing Part 3 covering the ins and outs of rental properties. 

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé begin a three-part series on investing. It’s easy to think that you need to start investing without really understanding what it is, how it will help you, or the best strategies to make your money work for you. But when it comes to investing your money, you don’t want to just follow what’s trendy at the moment. It’s important to understand investing, what your goals are and how to make it work for you. In part one of this series, Lauryn and Chloé help you understand the basics of investing. They talk about: Why investing is important How investing makes your money work for you Why you need to cover your financial basics first The Importance of understanding the risks Tips for diversifying your investments Public investments vs private investments Alternative investments - what they are and what you should know about them Why you need to understand your investments and not just follow the trends If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: "Don't look for the needle in the haystack. Just buy the haystack!" — John Bogle RESOURCES MENTIONED: Should You Invest in Stocks or Mutual Funds? What Are Robo-Advisors? Coming up next The next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, is Investing Part 2 covering the different types of investment accounts and strategies.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé talk about the first generation wealth builders tax, sometimes referred to as the “black tax”. When you’re the first person to achieve financial stability and build wealth within your circle of family and friends, there’s a good chance there are people in your life that will want financial help from you.  Statistics show the racial wealth gap already makes it harder for POC to achieve financial success which means supporting friends and family only adds to the problem. This is where the term “black tax” comes from. However, the lessons shared by Lauryn and Chloe can help any first-generation wealth builder. In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The importance of establishing priorities to help you get on track before helping everyone else Why you need both short term and long term financial goals A few strategies you can use to create priorities and systems for who you decide to help and how much you’re able to help them with (and the importance of having these in place for yourself before you need to use them) How to better understand your cash flow Why you need to look back to see how you’ve helped people in the past (Hint Hint - Those little amounts can really add up) Things you can do to help friends and family learn to help themselves Why you need to avoid making “loans” to family and friends How to prepare for the future financial obligations of caring for aging parents Why you need to prioritize yourself first in order to have a greater impact long-term If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “If you want to have enough to give others, you will need to take care of yourself first. A tree that refuses water and sunlight for itself can’t bear fruit for others.” ― Emily Maroutian RESOURCES MENTIONED: Balancing the “Black Tax” with Your Desire to Build Wealth Here’s what the “Black tax” does to so many families - including mine The Black Tax: The Cost of Being Black in America Coming up next In the next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, we’re going to talk about begin a 3 part series on Investing.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé talk about the three big money expenses that impact your wealth-building ability. You’ve probably heard when it comes to budgeting “the little expenses add up”, and while that’s true, it’s the big expenses that are killing you.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: What W-2 employees can do to reduce tax liability Tax considerations for self-employed individuals The difference between tax deductions and tax credits Tax considerations of homeownership The importance of understanding investments and/or starting a business and how it impacts your tax liability How much you should be spending on housing (renting or mortgage) Financial considerations for changing jobs or relocating How to reduce or eliminate student loan expense How to reduce or avoid auto loan debt What you need to know about credit card debt How your credit score is calculated Understanding your cash flow and the impact of these types of expenses If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “Wealth is not the same as income. If you make a good income each year and spend it all, you are not getting wealthier. You are just living high. Wealth is what you accumulate, not what you spend.” – Thomas Stanley  RESOURCES MENTIONED: Wealth-Building for the Wealthy Through the Tax Code Continues as Families of Color Fall Further Behind Substantial Income of Wealthy Households Escapes Annual Taxation Or Enjoys Special Tax Breaks I'm a financial planner, and I think most people are better off skipping a Roth 401(k) Episode 105 - "Know Better, Do Better" Series: Renting vs Homeownership A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Home Buyers What Tax Credits Can I Qualify For This Year? A Guide Coming up next: In the next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, we’re going to talk about the First Generation Wealth Builders Tax (AKA financially helping family and friends).

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé talk with guest Dr. Sarah Fallaw about the financial behaviors that are important for wealth building. Sarah is the co-author of The Next Millionaire Next Door and founder of DataPoints LLC, a behavioral assessment advisor fintech company. The company created an assessment of wealth-building potential based on The Millionaire Next Door.  If you’re ready to learn how to build wealth and what behaviors you can learn and what habits to adopt in order to make it happen, this is the episode for you! In this episode, Lauryn, Chloé, and Sarah discuss:: The difference between income and net worth Some of the myths about millionaires and what they really do instead The myths or misconceptions people have about building wealth The dangers of watching what others are doing and buying  Six behaviors that predict financial success Why it’s important to understand what your financial planner is doing The importance of believing in your ability to build wealth What to watch out for so you won’t be influenced in your spending decisions Impact of those around us on our financial behaviors and decisions To further connect with Dr. Sarah Fallaw: Twitter: @sarahfallaw LinkedIn: @sarahfallaw https://www.datapoints.com/ The Next Millionaire Next Door If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “Money should never change one’s values…. Making money is only a report card. It’s a way to tell how you’re doing.” - Thomas Stanley RESOURCES MENTIONED: Millionaire Next Door https://www.financialstaples.com/this-book-changed-how-i-think-about-money/ Emotion and Intention In Saving Money https://bigthink.com/personal-growth/psychology-saving-money-tracy-thomas?rebelltitem=1#rebelltitem1 How Marketing Influences Our Spending https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-behind-behavior/201902/how-marketers-influence-how-much-we-spend-big-purchases Wealth Potential Assessment (shorter version of DataPoints assessment I use with clients) https://measure.datapoints.com/survey/e/DLHHyamFf0ZGySdIhLfd  Spending Patterns Assessment  https://measure.datapoints.com/survey/e/pDbfyvDHqwABMRHty21H  Robert Caldini’s book https://www.influenceatwork.com/ Coming up next: In the next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, we’ll dig more into how your spending habits impact your ability to build wealth.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé talk with guest panelists Personal Risk Advisor Meaghan Dowd, CPRIA and Private Risk Advisor, LaTanya Simmons, CPCU, CPRIA about the ins and outs of Property and Casualty insurance. A lot of people tune out when they hear the word “insurance”, thinking it’s either a boring topic or just going to cost them money. But insurance can actually be a pretty cool thing to help you build and protect wealth. It’s important to understand what types of insurance you need to properly cover all the different areas of your life and finances. In this episode, the panelists talk about: What P&C insurance (property and casualty insurance) is and what it covers Why insurance coverage isn’t one-size-fits-all Best insurance coverage for the gig and rental economy (Airbnb, Uber, Turo, etc) The biggest misconception with auto insurance Can you really use your credit card insurance instead of insurance offered through rental car companies? When is the right time to add your significant other to your insurance policies? How to know if you need insurance and how to be eligible for it What you need to know about personal articles coverage Why it’s helpful to work with a traditional insurance company instead of an online solution and how to know when it’s time to move to high-end providers Insurance considerations for entrepreneurs working from home as well as individuals who hire nannies, landscapers, housekeepers and other service providers If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “Remember; when disaster strikes, the time to prepare has passed.” – Steve Cyros RESOURCES MENTIONED: Homeowners Coverage in the Age of Catastrophic Weather Patterns

We are taking a break this week from the “Know Better. Do Better” series to hear the inspiring money memoir of one woman who is working hard to create the financial life she desires while still having the quality of life that she wants. If you are burnout and exhausted from your job, this might be an inspiring message for you to listen to. Today’s guest is Alka Kumar. She grew up in India, where she went to medical school and eventually came to the United States. She spent nearly 30 years working as a physician when she realized that she was overworked and getting close to reaching the point of being burnt out. Instead of toughing it out because she was getting closer to being able to retire, she realized she needed to make some changes in her life. She cut back her hours so she could work part-time and began to educate herself on real estate investing. Before she knew it, she bought her first property and was finally on the path to earning passive income. She now owns and manages 16 units and is continuing to grow and expand her portfolio. Alka is also excited to help give back by sharing financial and real estate information to help other professionals, especially single women learn to line up multiple income streams instead of just depending on their 9 to 5 job. In This Episode We Discuss: What it was like growing up in India and what made Alka move to Canada (and then the US) The difference between the cost of college in India vs. the US Some of the great financial principles that Alka lives by How she educated herself on investing and real estate Why she’s working as her own property manager and if she plans to continue that in the future Why she started small when buying her first investment property Some of the horror stories of being a landlord and why she still thinks it’s one of the best things The unexpected expenses that come with being a landlord How Alka has financed her properties The importance of having a “get rich slow” mindset If you want to learn more about Alka Kumar and the work she’s doing you can connect with her at: Website: https://www.yourwealthmd.com/ LinkedIn: @alka-ally-kumar-120b43149 Facebook: @YourWealthMD If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé are talking about how to handle your finances when you receive a windfall. Now you might instantly think of winning the lotto as a windfall, but there are many instances of windfalls that you can receive including tax refunds, stimulus checks, and inheritances.  While not every windfall you receive is going to be large and life-changing, it’s still important to have a plan for what you’re going to do with it.   In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: What to consider when you receive small windfalls Why a large tax refund is NOT the goal The importance of considering payout options and tax obligations Considerations to make if you receive a large, but not life-changing windfall Important considerations for signing bonuses Why you need to be clear on your financial needs Why it’s helpful to have money goals established even if you’re not planning on receiving a windfall What to think about for retirement planning Importance of watching out for scams including “sketchy businesses” What professionals you may want to work with Additional pro tips and things to watch for if you receive a windfall If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore  Shared quote: “Wisdom with an inheritance is good, but wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom” – Anne Bradstreet RESOURCES MENTIONED: How to Prioritize Saving, Investing, and Paying Off Debt The smartest things do with your money when you get a raise, according to a financial planner Balancing the “Black Tax” with Your Desire to Build Wealth Coming up next: In the next episode of the Know Better. Do Better series, we’re going to talk about everything you need to know about Property and Casualty Insurance.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In this episode of the series, Lauryn and Chloé help you answer the question “Am I ready to start a business and become an entrepreneur?” A lot of people are thinking about taking the leap into entrepreneurship after the last year, but how do you know if it’s really a good idea? There are a lot of considerations to make before getting started and it’s not for everyone.  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: The common mistakes that people make when starting a business What you need to have in order with your finances before you start a business The biggest reason that many businesses fail Why you need to be passionate about your business How long it really takes before you’ll be able to pay yourself as an entrepreneur What professionals you should connect with from the start of your business A few things you need to know about taxes Unexpected expenses that many entrepreneurs forget to plan for Potential business scams to watch out for What steps you can take if you want to start a business and are ready to become an entrepreneur If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore RESOURCES: Instagram: @financialstaples Twitter: @finstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore Shared quote: “Dreams do not come true just because you dream them. It’s hard work that makes things happen. It’s hard work that creates change.” - Shonda Rhimes RESOURCES MENTIONED: E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber  Episode 105 - "Know Better, Do Better" Series: Renting vs Homeownership Episode 100 - Employee vs Entrepreneur: What to Know Before Making the Jump Coming up next: In Episode 107 we’re going to talk about what to do if you get an unexpected windfall.

This is the “Know Better, Do Better” series born from the countless conversations two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore, have about the trendy narratives and clickbaity articles that make it hard for them to help their clients. They want to help you gain financial confidence and clarity to control your destiny. In the first episode of this series, Lauryn and Chloé dive into the trendy topic of homeownership. Even in the midst of the pandemic, the housing market has continued to soar. Many sellers are getting over the asking price and many buyers are struggling to buy while being caught up in bidding wars. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that since everyone else is doing it, it must be good. But, is buying a house vs renting really the right decision?  In this episode, Lauryn and Chloé talk about: Why a primary residence is not an investment 4 questions to ask yourself before buying a house The downsides of homeownership Common mistakes people make when buying a house If they think people are really “throwing money away on rent” Common mistakes people make when refinancing their mortgage The importance of prioritizing what’s important to you when it comes to your finances If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams If you want to further connect with Chloé Moore: Instagram: @financialstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore RESOURCES: Chloé’s Business Insider article: “I'm a financial planner, and there are only a few situations where I recommend homeownership to my clients” A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Home Buyers  First-Time Home Buyer Programs by State: https://time.com/nextadvisor/mortgages/first-time-homebuyer-loans-and-programs/

Welcome to our first full episode of 2021! We’re kicking the year off with a series called “Know Better, Do Better”. Fellow financial planner Chloe Moore from Financial Staples is going to be co-hosting this series with me (Lauryn Williams). We will be teaming up to break down some hot financial topics. But before we start diving in and breaking down clickbaity articles, scams, and misinformation, we want to officially introduce you to Chloe.  In this episode of the podcast, Chloe shares her money memoir with us along with why she decided to become a Certified Financial Planner and start Financial Staples.  We also discuss: The impact that Chloe’s upbringing had on the way she handles her finances What made her change majors in college from athletic training to financial planning The different options available for paying for college without student loans The impact it can make when you are exposed to experiences outside of your bubble Why Chloe decided to set out as an entrepreneur and start her own financial planning business How she’s handling her finances know The financial conversations that she’s having with friends and family Why you shouldn’t wait to talk to a planner until your finances are “ready” and why you don’t need to worry about being judged If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams RESOURCES: Learn more about Chloe at: https://www.financialstaples.com/ Follow her on social media at: Instagram: @financialstaples Facebook: @finstaples LinkedIn: @chloemoore

Welcome to 2021! Worth Listening podcast host, Lauryn Williams, has been busy gearing up for the 4th year of the podcast. And she’s got some surprises in store for you. Here’s what you can expect in the upcoming year: Lauryn is bringing Certified Financial Planner, Chloe Moore, as a co-host for 13 episodes. They are going to dive into some of the trendy financial topics and do some financial myth-busting.  There will be several episodes where Lauryn will cover a case study along with sharing financial planning based on specific situations. The podcast guests are going to be from older generations. They’re going to share the things that they wished they would have known. There’s even a 100-year-old guest that will be joining us.  Several episodes will include a panel of guests discussing different financial topics During this episode, Lauryn also shares some inspiration for 2021 and the importance of creating a plan. She shares: Why she’s ready to move from surviving to thriving in 2021 Her plan and focus for the new year Why we need to focus on connecting with community in a way you feel safe The importance of having an accountability partner Why it’s going to be fun in 2021 If you want to share your money memoirs on the podcast or share your theme for the new year, email [email protected] If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

2021 is just a few days away and it’s time to make sure you have your goals and action steps in place for the new year. 2020 brought a lot of unexpected situations for many people. You may have found that your finances were negatively impacted or you may have found that you had extra to save because you were sitting at home a lot more. On the last episode, Certified Financial Planner and Worth Listening host, Lauryn Williams shared tips to help you reflect on the events of this year and the impact they had on you. In this episode, she helps you get ready for the new year by sharing 3 tips to keep in mind as you plan for 2021.  In this episode, Lauryn talks about: Emotions around finances The questions you should be answering as you reflect upon the year Three things to keep in mind as you set goals for 2021 The importance of being adaptable and leaving wiggle room in your budget Why it’s OK to make money off your “superpower” The importance of embracing that it’s not bad to make money (even more than you need!) If you want to share your money memoirs on the podcast, or share your goals and action steps for the new year, email [email protected] If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams Resources: Worth Listening episode 98: “Money Afford Me…” talking with financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin Worth Listening episode 99: “Financial Resiliency in 2020” and how to bounce back Worth Listening episode 101: “Reflecting on 2020”

Happy holidays! This is typically a time of year when we start to do a lot of reflecting. 2020 has certainly given us a lot to think about this year. And while many people are thinking, “I can’t wait until 2021”, things aren’t going to automatically change just because the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve.  In this episode host, Lauryn Williams, talks about the importance of reflection and helps walk you through the process. In this episode, Lauryn talks about: What reflection is and why we need to do it at the end of this year The questions you should be answering as you reflect upon the year The importance of writing down your reflections to make them tangible Finding the things to be grateful for even in difficult times The importance of training your mind The difference between “resolutions” and “goal setting” Creating a new narrative for 2021 Establishing YOUR definition of success If you want to share your money memoirs on the podcast or share what success means to YOU, contact [email protected] If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams Resources: Worth Listening episode 98: “Money Afford Me…” talking with financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin Worth Listening episode 99: “Financial Resiliencey in 2020” and how to bounce back

Today podcast host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams address the considerations, financial and otherwise, that you should be aware of when it comes to being an employee vs entrepreneur.  A lot of people are thinking of making changes in their employment situation because of the impact that 2020 has had on their finances and life. Some are looking to jump into life as an entrepreneur after being laid off by their employer. They want full control over their career and what happens. And then there are the entrepreneurs that are looking to switch back to being an employee for the stability and steady paycheck that comes with the job.  Lauryn deep dives into the different pros and cons of each situation and what you should consider before making a decision. In this episode Lauryn talks about: Disadvantages of being an employee Disadvantages of being an entrepreneur Advantages of being an employee Advantages of being an entrepreneur Employee vs entrepreneur financial considerations Knowing what your purpose  If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams Resources: Worth Listening episode 98: “Money Afford Me…” talking with financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin Worth Listening episode 99: “Financial Resiliency in 2020” and how to bounce back

Today podcast host and Certified Financial Planner Lauryn Williams talks all things financial resiliency. We had high hopes at this time last year and were getting excited about ringing in a new year and new decade. But then 2020 hit and we’ve been thrown one curveball after another. Everyone has had to pivot and adjust throughout the year time and time again.  This leads us to financial resiliency. Instead of tossing in the towel, we can learn how to be resilient with our finances regardless of what comes our way.  In this episode Lauryn shares: What it means to be financially resilient How to get back on track with our finances Why we shouldn’t be chasing money What systems we need to put into place to bounce back with our finances The role that advocacy plays in our finances Why you shouldn’t be ashamed if you don’t have a budget in place How to take inventory of your current financial situation If you want to further connect with Lauryn Williams at Worth Winning, follow us on social media: Instagram: @worthwinning Twitter: @worth_winning Facebook: @worthwinningfp LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Today I’m excited to have Lindsay Bryan-Podvin on the podcast today. Lindsay is a biracial financial therapist, speaker, podcaster, and Plutus-nominated author. In her therapy practice, she uses shame-free financial therapy to help people get their minds and money in balance. Additionally, she's expanded her services to help therapists with their money mindset, niching, and authentic marketing. She lives with her husband and their dog in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 2020 has brought a lot of different challenges that have created a lot of different emotions around money including the layoffs and furloughs due to covid, the consideration of how to be more socially responsible with finances, and survivors guilt from those that experienced financial growth this year.  Lindsay is going to share a little about what a financial therapist does and shares what everyone should know about the intersection of emotions and money.  In This Episode We Discuss: What a financial therapist is and what to look for when finding one to work with The stages of financial emotion throughout 2020 The survivor guilt that people are experiencing who haven’t been negatively impacted financially this year Signs that you need a financial therapist The process of working with a financial therapist Tips on how to find affordable help for anxiety or other mental health challenges Tips to help you finish the year on a good note Take the Financial Archetype quiz at: mindmoneybalance.com/quiz Lindsay’s website: https://mindmoneybalance.com Follow her on social media: Instagram: @mindmoneybalance Twitter: @mindmnybalance Facebook: @mindmoneybalance LinkedIn: @lindsaybryanpodvin Podcast: https://www.mindmoneybalance.com/podcast1

Rounding out the Real Estate series on the Worth Listening podcast is guest Arielle Minicozzi. She is a partner and financial planner at Modern Money Advisor, where she focuses on working with young, female professionals to help them achieve homeownership, address their student loan debt and build a firm financial foundation.  In addition to her work with Modern Money, Arielle is the founder and co-owner of Sphynx Automation, a virtual CTO firm that helps financial advisors gain efficiency and maximize their client impact using technology and automation. Arielle resides in sunny Arizona with her husband (and business partner) Mark Figueroa, and their cat (the namesake of Sphynx), Nigel. Before becoming a Certified Financial Planner, Arielle worked as a mortgage lender. This gives her a unique and complete perspective on what things you should be thinking about and preparing for before buying a house. She shares tips and advice to help you make the most of your home buying experience. In This Episode We Discuss: The strategy that Arielle recommends to clients to help them save for buying a house.  What to look for when choosing a mortgage lender.  The importance of having your finances in order before buying a house The unexpected expenses that come with home ownership How things like your credit score and down payment impact your mortgage options How much you should spend on your house and why you shouldn’t necessarily spend as much as you’re approved for Steps to homeownership If you want to see what Arielle’s up to, you can find her on Instagram and Facebook @modernmoneyadvisor. Or, visit https://www.modernmoneyadvisor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernmoneyadvisor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernmoneyadvisor

Today’s guest is a former professional tennis player, Sunitha Rao. She spent ten years competing in all the majors and Olympics before retiring from the sport at the age of 23. That’s right, she went pro at the age of 14!  After returning from sport, she found herself flat broke with a 6th-grade education and GED. Fast forward 11 years and she is now thriving in corporate America as a financial analyst with an MBA from Villanova while also being a real estate investor with 9 rental units.  Her personal story is full of twists and turns from growing up with immigrant parents, experiencing life as a young professional athlete, and starting her real estate journey. Her path is a testament to the importance of creating a strong network, realizing there is more than one way to success and thinking about life choices holistically by incorporating past experiences with a long term view of the future.  Today Sunitha will share with us more about why and how she started investing in real estate even though she had never purchased a home before. In This Episode We Discuss: How you can get started with real estate investments through house hacking your way into the market.  Why real estate investing is a “get rich slow” strategy How her upbringing impacts the way she handles her finances today including her real estate investments.  The importance of doing your research and running the numbers. Why you need to understand what your specific financial goals are when investing Instagram: @griffixpropertygroup griffixpropertygroup.com

We’re continuing the Real Estate series today with guest Justine Chan. Justine is a real estate agent with The Level Group in New York City and the founder of Live with Plum, an educational site that helps women build wealth through real estate. She graduated from The Yale School of Management with an M.B.A. and from NYU’s Stern School of Business with a B.S. in Finance and Economics.  Today Justine will share with us more about why she turned to real estate as a wealth-building tool in her mid-twenties and what she did to get started.  In This Episode We Discuss: How to slowly start building a real estate portfolio  How real estate investing can help compound your wealth without using your salary The importance of building and maintaining a high credit score for investing in real estate Why your first home doesn’t need to be your “dream home” The importance of understanding how the market moves What to look for before investing in an narea How to calculate your debt-to-income ratio and why it matters If you’re a woman interested in real estate investing, check out Justine’s educational site Live with Plum. You can also find her on the following social media platforms: https://www.facebook.com/livewithplum/ https://twitter.com/livewithplum IG: @livewithplum

Welcome to the October series of the Worth Listening Podcast! This month we’re focusing on all things real estate.  Today’s guest is Andrew Kerr here to share his Money Memoir with us. Andrew is the founder of FI by REI (Financial Independence by Real Estate Investing). He is the director of a nonprofit and world traveler by day and a serial house hacker and real estate investor by night.  Andrew has an incredible story when it comes to real estate investing. He started his career in the real estate industry but gave up a six-figure income in order to pursue a life he enjoyed and work he cared about focused on working with nonprofits. He quickly learned that the financial gap between the two careers was a big one, but  instead of switching jobs to chase the dollar, he continued doing what he loves working with nonprofits while gaining financial independence through real estate investing.  Today Andrew will share with us more about his REI journey. In This Episode We Discuss: How he managed to transition from a six-figure income to living on a $20k salary The difference that having financial conversations can make The difference between house hacking, active real estate investing, and passive investing What to look for when starting to invest in real estate passively Why House Hacking is a great way to get started in REI For those of you want to connect with Andrew, you can find him at www.FIbyREI.com. And if you are interested in learning more about House Hacking, Andrew wrote a great guide called The Ultimate Guide to House Hacking. Then his show, The House Hacking Podcast has a ton of great case studies of individuals that have done a house hack. And if you’re ready to tackle your finances and create a financial plan to meet your needs and support the lifestyle you want, explore your options with Worth Winning. IG: https://www.instagram.com/thehousehackingpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/fibyrei/    FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheHouseHackingPodcast  https://www.facebook.com/FIbyREI/    Twitter: https://twitter.com/fibyrei   https://twitter.com/thehousehacking 

Today’s guest is Phuong Luong. Phuong is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and founder of Just Wealth, a virtual, fee-only financial planning practice. She understands personal finance across income and wealth spectrums and provides accessible and objective financial planning, coaching, and education. She consults with organizations and companies on how to build effective and culturally relevant programs and financial technology.  Phuong also provides training and workshops to the public on practical personal finance, financial history, structural racism, and racial and gender wealth divides. Phuong is the Chair of the CFP Board's Council on Education. Today Phuong will share with us more about the different types of giving that exist. She’ll also share a little of her financial background as a first-generation Vietnamese American and how her hustle for side jobs eventually led her down the path of becoming a CFP.  In This Episode We Discuss: How giving cash can be one of the best ways to help others and why we shouldn’t think we know someone’s situation better than they do. The difference between not having enough money and not knowing how to manage the money you have.  The types of giving and how they tend to change as income increases The importance of exposure to different financial levels and lifestyles How millennials are changing “giving”  What young inheritors are doing and the generational wealth transfer that’s happening How you can use “emergency fund giving” to help those you care about without breaking your budget Learn more about Phuong Luong: Phuong’s business website: https://www.justwealthplanning.com/ Twitter: @pt_luong Mentioned Resources: Give Directly: Give Directly runs large-scale direct cash transfer projects around the world, including the U.S.  Economic Security Project: The Economic Security Project has channeled over $10 million through direct, aligned and in-kind support to groundbreaking research and projects - including the Stockton Economic Empowerment Demonstration (SEED) and Magnolia Mother's Trust  Asset Funders Network webinar about cash giving on July 28, 2020

We’re continuing on with our August series on giving. Today’s guest, Charles E Goodman Jr. is going to be discussing the often debated topic of tithing. Charles has served for the last 13 years as Senior Pastor and Teacher of the 9,700-member, multi-site Tabernacle Baptist Church in Augusta, GA. He’s the author of three books and is currently preparing to begin work on earning his 7th Degree! There are a lot of opinions out there about tithing. Should we tithe or not? How much should we tithe? What’s the Bible really say about tithing? Is tithing just an old testament thing? Should you tithe if you’re in debt? Is tithing the same thing as giving? Should you tithe on your gross, net, or does it even matter? Today Charles is going to share a little of the message that he shares with his congregation regarding tithing, which may be a little different than you’ve heard before. He’s also going to share a little with us about his personal financial story including his upbringing and how he’s earned all those degrees with almost no student loan debt. In This Episode We Discuss: The eye-opening experience Charles had about finances when he got to college How he was able to get scholarships to cover his degrees The desire to change generational wealth The dangers of trying to keep up with the financial perception The holistic approach to tithing: Offering of time, talent, testimony, and treasure. The 10/10/80 plan for your finances The importance of being part of a church that you’re comfortable supporting and what to do if you’re not.  Why you need to change the way you view your financial failures so they don’t hold you back  If you want to learn more about Charles or hear more of his messages, you can find him at: Instagram: @DrCEGJr Facebook: @drcegjr Twitter: @DRCEGJR Website: https://www.tbcaugusta.org/

Today’s guest is Sierra Nicole. Sierra is a 23-year-old entrepreneur who decided to quit college at the end of her junior year to pursue other opportunities. And it’s a decision that changed her life. She’s now the owner of a trucking company, several Airbnb rentals, a business coach, and she’s a virtual financial literacy professor for the 3E Programs which is presented at Yale and Howard University. Sierra learned early on that she was going to need to unlearn some of the money mindsets she learned growing up so she could relearn and change the path of her life. Today Sierra will share with us more about the changes she decided to make that helped her move from having a scarcity mindset to a mindset of abundance. In This Episode We Discuss: Why money is not evil and it’s not wrong to pursue wealth The importance of unlearning in order to relearn and change your direction Why you need to always be learning The books that have helped Sierra along the way Overcoming a scarcity mindset The importance of learning how to receive The books that Sierra mentioned include: The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea by John David Mann & Bob Burg Think and Grow Rich by by Napoleon Hill Profit First by by Colt Forte If you want to see more of what Sierra is up to, you can follow her at: Website: sierranicholeofficial.com Facebook: @sierra.nicole.1650 Instagram: @sierranicoleofficial Tiktok: @sierranicoleofficial

During the month of August the Worth Listening theme is Giving. A lot of conversations in the financial world focus around how to make more, investment more, and save more. Giving is an often overlooked but important piece of the pie. Today I’m excited to have professional track and field athlete, entrepreneur & philanthropist Steven Benedict here to share his Money Memoir with us.  As a professional track and field athlete and Olympic Trials Qualifier, Steven Benedict has run in some of the world's most prestigious events. In addition to the Adidas Classic Diamond League and US Nationals, he ran for Nike for 2 years and was A Penn Relays Champion. Featured in 50 national and international magazines such as Train, ESPN Magazine, Mens Fitness, Mens Health and Fitness RX, Steven offers advice and motivation to elite and up and coming athletes alike. Beyond the track, he is the founder of “Fostering Success”  a non-profit organization that pairs Professional Athletes with Foster Kids and is a powerful motivational speaker and author.  These accomplishments were not what was expected based on his early years. From abandonment to abuse, family deceptions, untimely deaths, drugs, and alcohol, Steven was confronted with more obstacles before the age of 28 than the majority of people face in a lifetime. Despite the hardships, Steven applied what he learned on the track to remain focused on the finish line. His rules for running the race translate to almost every industry, person, and circumstance and his story is a reminder to all who hear it that so long as you still have breath in your lungs, your race can still be won.  Today Steven will share with us more about his personal experiences and how he focuses on giving back now.  In This Episode We Discuss: The second chance he was given by his adoptive parents The impact that others made on his life as he was growing up  The difference between giving and investing How he diversifies his income streams as a professional athlete  The importance of understanding that giving doesn’t have to be financial How he’s running his nonprofit different than many others Instagram: @steviey_b www.stevieyb.com

We’re wrapping up our series on Men & Money today with guest Ryan Skinner. Ryan is the founder and co-owner of Summit Financial Partners, a Massachusetts based firm working with clients aged 55+ to help them build secure income for life. He’s also the author of Taking Stock: Protect Your Wealth and Create Reliable Income for a Happy & Secure Retirement. Ryan’s been featured on Fortune, Forbes, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal.  But more than that, Ryan is living proof that survival from a dark and downward spiral is possible. I don’t want to ruin too much of his story before he has a chance to share it with you, but he went from riches to rags and back again. And because of his experience, he’s able to offer a unique perspective on some of the struggles that he sees men facing.  Today Ryan will share with us more about how he went from living the high life to being homeless and addicted to drugs and how he rebuilt his life from the bottom up. In This Episode We Discuss: How Ryan got his start in the stock market before graduating high school.  The impact that insecurity and the pressure to provide can have on men. What Ryan sees as some of the reasons why men are incarcerated at a much higher rate than women.  How his drug addiction took him from having multiple houses, cars, and a six-figure bank account to losing everything Why it’s not about what you have but what you do with what you have. The advice that he gives to men that are struggling with insecurity, loneliness, or struggling with the pressure of life. You can learn more about Ryan’s business here: http://www.summitfinancialpartners.org/ or follow him on Facebook @SummitFinPartners Learn more about Ryan's story here: http://www.ryantakingstock.com/ Explore your options for financial planning: https://www.worth-winning.com/

We are interrupting our regularly scheduled programming for the week to address the current events that are taking place around our country. Tension is HIGH this year and we want to have a meaningful discussion on race and racism.  Today Worth Listening host Lauryn Williams, 4x Olympian, Certified Financial Planner, and founder of Worth Winning, shares her perspective of what’s happening. She also shares actionable steps that anyone can take to work on making lasting change in overcoming racial injustice instead of just paying lip service to the “cause” on social media.    In This Episode Lauryn Discusses: The difference that technology and social media is making on shining a light on racial injustice The problem with pushing the “speak up or be canceled” agenda and why it’s OK to think before you jump into the conversation The importance of reaching out for help or therapy if you need it. This is a traumatic time and people are feeling it. It’s OK to admit it and find support and guidance.  How you “don’t know what you don’t know” and it’s important to educate yourself (and this applies to all races) A few specific things that the majority can do to support ending racial injustice  The importance of taking advantage of the opportunities and resources that are available to you as a minority. How financial planners can be more intentional about diversifying their business Why the “you can’t judge a book by a cover” is still so true RESOURCE LIST Worth Listening Podcast Series on the Racial Wealth Divide Episodes 77-80 Therapy for Black Girls Melanin money  Minority money podcast

The June series “Men & Money” is continuing with guest Shawn Hames, CEO of iDeal Floors. After graduating from high school, Shawn decided to take his future in his hands by working his way up the company business instead of going to college. He jumped in with both feet to start learning everything he could about the company from the ground up. Don’t think he was handed some cushy job as the owner’s son. He now appreciates that his dad never handed him anything and made him work for every dollar he earned.  In 2019, Shawn and his sister bought the company which has grown to include six locations while doing $13 million in annual revenue.  Today Shawn will share with us more about the lessons that he’s learned in business and finance. In This Episode We Discuss: How Shawn learned work ethic and the value of money.  The difference between revenue and profit. Why you need to acknowledge that you don’t know everything. The importance of self-education, finding mentors, and learning from those that know more than you. What to remember when trying to obtain a business loan. Why you and your partner need to be on the same team when it comes to your finances. How Shawn is teaching his own kids about finances. You can check out Shawn’s business here: https://www.idealfloors.com/ If you’re interested in exploring options to get your finances in order: http://worth-winning.com/

We are interrupting our regularly scheduled programming for the week to address the current events that are taking place around our country. Tension is HIGH this year and we want to have a meaningful discussion on race and racism.  Today Worth Listening host Lauryn Williams, 4x Olympian, Certified Financial Planner, and founder of Worth Winning, shares her perspective of what’s happening. She also shares actionable steps that anyone can take to work on making lasting change in overcoming racial injustice instead of just paying lip service to the “cause” on social media.    In This Episode Lauryn Discusses: The difference that technology and social media is making on shining a light on racial injustice The problem with pushing the “speak up or be canceled” agenda and why it’s OK to think before you jump into the conversation The importance of reaching out for help or therapy if you need it. This is a traumatic time and people are feeling it. It’s OK to admit it and find support and guidance.  How you “don’t know what you don’t know” and it’s important to educate yourself (and this applies to all races) A few specific things that the majority can do to support ending racial injustice  The importance of taking advantage of the opportunities and resources that are available to you as a minority. How financial planners can be more intentional about diversifying their business Why the “you can’t judge a book by a cover” is still so true RESOURCE LIST Worth Listening Podcast Series on the Racial Wealth Divide Episodes 77-80 Therapy for Black Girls Melanin money  Minority money podcast

As we continue to explore the topic of men and money during the month of June, today’s guest is Jedidiah Collins. He is an NFL veteran that played in the league for 7 years. In between seasons, he earned his CFP to become an expert in the field of personal finance. He’s also the author of the book Your Money Vehicle and host to the Rookie to Veteran podcast. He’s also a married man and dad to two daughters. And, his mission is to empower people to own their future both professionally and financially. Today Jedidiah will share with us more about why personal finance became a topic of interest to him as well as what financial and personal lessons he learned from his years in the NFL. In This Episode We Discuss: That your networth is not your self-worth What it means to control your APE How one of his best investments was also one of his worst financial decisions His personal view on lending money to family and friends The impact that ego has on finances The real problem that plagues NFL players and their finances The important lesson he learned from teaching a class on personal finance Instagram: Jed.Collins45 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jedidiah.collins.7 Twitter: JedCollins45

During June we’re going to be talking “men and money” on the podcast. There’s been more attention on women in the financial industry, which is much needed. But I want to make sure we shine a little light on the men too. Today I’m excited to have Erik Kroll here to share his Money Memoir with us. Erik is a Certified Financial Planner and the owner of Hilltop Financial Advisors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He has a passion for helping people overcome student loan debt and find peace of mind with their money. Erik will share with us how he got his start in financial planning and what challenges he faced as he set out to start his own business. We’re also going to discuss some of the common stereotypes that surround genders and finances. In This Episode We Discuss: What Erik learned about finances while busing tables after college. The stereotypes around gender and finances The importance of being on the same page about how you handle finances with your spouse Why you need to set aside pride when handling your money Instagram: erikkrollfp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hilltopfa/

Today’s guest is Preethi Harbuck from the Local Passport Family. Preethi is a mom of 5 who writes to spark curiosity and connection through family travel and exploring at home. She has an MBA with an emphasis in marketing and she recently started an Instagram account called Mompreneur Academy to empower mom entrepreneurs with business tools for success. Today Preethi will share with us more about how she and her husband handle their family finances in order to explore both close to home and across the world. Preethi and her husband have traveled to 62 countries and they had children in tow for 43 of them. They aren’t just trying to have incredible family vacations but to teach their family about the world and explore local cultures.  In This Episode We Discuss: How to organize finances so you can travel The fact that you can continue to travel with children and the importance of showing them local cultures.  Tips to save money as you travel while also getting to experience life like the locals How to use your finances as a tool The importance of prioritizing your spending to enable yourself to do the things you want If you want to learn more about Preethi and her family travels you can check out localpassportfamily.com or find her on Instagram @localpassportfamily and @mompreneur.academy

Today’s guest is Rob Bertman, CFA, CFP® from Family Budget Expert. Rob had achieved his dream career of being a partner in a successful investment management firm when he felt the urge to strike out on his own in a new direction. He started The Family Budget Expert to help families improve their lives and financial situation by helping them alleviate the #1 relationship stressor—challenges with spending.  He researched and created simple techniques that couples can use to overcome the financial struggles of spending and debt.  Today Rob will share with us more about his background in finance and what drove him to make the shift of leavving a prestigious job in order to start his own business helping families. Throughout the episode he breaks down and spells out the simple strategies you can use to get on the same page with your partner about your finances as well as help your kids get a good financial start.  In This Episode We Discuss: What the #1 predictor of financial success is A simple mindset shift you can make to overcome the negative stigma around budgeting  Keep, Reduce, Eliminate: The three prong approach Rob uses with budgeting The 5 most important lessons you should teach your children about money What one step Rob thinks you should take if you’re just starting out in getting your finances under control To download Rob’s free guide 5 Steps to Cut Spending 7 Finally Save Money visit his website here: https://familybudgetexpert.com/ If you want to take advantage of enrolling in The Ultimate Money Game Plan for free before the end of April 2020, click here and use the discount code FINANCIALFREEDOM. (https://worth-winning.teachable.com/courses)

Today’s guest is Travis Hornsby. He is a former bonds trader that transitioned to being an entrepreneur and founder of studentloanplanner.com. He works with professionals with student loan debt to help them take control of their financial situation and make the best decisions when it comes to their debt repayment.  Travis got an early start on being frugal, which he shares in the podcast. He became interested in the FIRE movement (Financial Independence. Retire Early.) after securing his dream job and discovering it still wasn’t what he really wanted. This led him down a path of cutting expenses and building his savings and investments allowing him to retire at the age of 25.  Now as a 30-year-old, Travis is married, running a successful business and leading a more balanced life when it comes to budgeting and finances.  Here are a few things that Lauryn and Travis discuss in this episode: What the FIRE movement is all about Tips to help reduce your expenses Tricks to lower your out-of-pocket college expense and how Travis graduated with no debt and five-figure savings Anxiety around spending money The homeownership rules that Travis recommends and why he is a renter instead of a homeowner. Links mentioned in podcast: www.studentloanplanner.com 25 is the New 65 Listen to Travis’ first guest appearance on Worth Listening: Episode 31 “Don’t Be Overcome By Your Student Loan Debt” The Ultimate Money Game Plan online course. Use discount code FINANCIALFREEDOM to get free access.

Welcome to Financial Literacy Month on the Worth Listening podcast. We know budgets and finances might be looking a little different right now in light of the coronavirus pandemic, but it’s all the more reason to work on getting your finances in order. Throughout the month podcast host and Certified Financial Planner, Lauryn Williams is going to address the big bad b-word—BUDGETS! In this episode, Lauryn’s going to kick off the month of budgeting while also addressing some of the things you should know about from the economic stimulus plan passed by congress. Here are a few things that Lauryn discusses: The main points you need to know about support coming through the CARES Act passed by congress for both individuals and small business owners The importance of not letting shame stop you from reaching out for the help you need The self-consciousness people have about talking budgeting and why one system isn’t right for everyone The budgeting method she uses Credit card debt and how to create a repayment plan How to address a scarcity mindset The importance of tracking expenses A free offer from Worth Winning that can help you work on getting your finances in order Links mentioned in podcast: The Ultimate Money Game Plan online course. Use discount code FINANCIALFREEDOM to get free access.

Today’s guest is Certified Financial Planner, Wes Shannon. Wes became a Certified Financial Planner and founder of SJK Financial Planning after going back to school for his undergrad in his early fifties. He describes himself as “an old white guy” and a true Texan and he has a true heart for helping people with this finances including volunteering his services to help those such as single moms work on organizing their finances. Wes is an alley as we talk about how to bridge the race gap and talk about the racial wealth divide. While there is a majority out there as a number of people, there doesn’t need to be a divide in the way we think about ourselves and each other and I think it’s important to get everyone involved in the conversation if we’re going to eliminate this gap. In This Episode We Discuss: What Wes found when he started researching the racial wealth divide The messages that the media has been sharing about race for decades The importance of understanding that there are many ingredients that are impacting the racial wealth divide The role that the education system is playing in the divide How technology is failing us in 2020 The beliefs that are holding the majority back from seeing the real problem How the majority can join the conversation https://www.sjkfinancialplanning.com/ Facebook: @sjkfinancial Twitter: @rwswes

Today’s guest is Morgane from the Young Black Mrs. Podcast. By day, Morgane is a digital marketing specialist in the food industry. By night, she's a wife, cook, shower singer, and podcaster. Morgane is an HBCU grad from Wilberforce University and her personal experience provides her with a unique perspective on the racial wealth divide.   Today Morgane will share with us more about her financial story including how she learned to save as a child and how finances played a role in which HBCU. She also shares what caused her finances to fall apart and how she and her husband created a plan to quickly turn things around.  In This Episode We Discuss: Her experience transitioning to a largely white community growing up to attending an HBCU What bad advice she was given about paying on student loans from her school Why it’s important to learn how to use credit cards correctly or not use them at all The role the media is playing in the racial wealth divide Instagram: @youngblackmrspodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoungBlackMRS/

Today’s guests are Pam Capalad and Dyalekt. Pam is a Certified Financial Planner and founder of Brunch and Budget which helps people to become more comfortable with financial conversations. Dyalekt is a musician, educator, and actor. His music and one person plays are used as a curriculum as he works with kids as young as 6 through college-age to teach on the emotional and practical ways they deal with finances. They are both also podcasters working hard to help people of color create financial stability. Not only are Pam and Dyalekt educated on the financial industry they are well versed on the policies that are impacting the racial wealth divide. They aren’t shy about sharing the things that need to be addressed and changed in order to start correcting this gap that’s impacting our society.  Today Pam and Dyalekt will share with us more about what people of all colors can do in order to address the racial wealth divide.  In This Episode We Discuss: The surprising negative impact that desegregation had on the financial stability of minorities The role that the media is playing in continuing to feed the racial wealth divide The reality of the “black tax”  How digital redlining is continuing to feed the racial wealth divide Why words like “personal responsibility” and “privilege” are connected with negative emotions What the majority can do to help put an end to the wealth divide If you want to learn more about Pam and Dyalekt or see what they’re up to you can find them at the following sites: https://brunchandbudget.com/ http://dyalekt.com/

In the final podcast episode for 2019, Lauryn Williams reflects on 2019 from both a business and a personal perspective. The end of the year is an important time to reflect on events and situations and determine what you want the upcoming year to look like.   Here are a few things that Lauryn shares in this episode: The ups and downs that she experienced in 2019  How she saved 291 people a total of $9.8 million on their student loans The importance of reviewing the prior year and setting goals for the upcoming year Why it’s important to look at each new day as a clean slate Details about the online financial course that she’ll be launching in 2020 Changes that she’s planning on making with the podcast (and she wants your feedback!) After listening to the episode make sure to keep your eye out on social media and the website to find out more about what’s coming in 2020: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/worthwinningfp/ Twitter https://twitter.com/worth_winning Instagram https://www.instagram.com/worthwinning/ Website: http://www.worth-winning.com/

Today’s guest is a financial educator, podcaster, and soon to be author, Eugenie George.  Her path to where she is today, as the founder of Money and Flow didn’t start with finances. In fact, she spent her first years after college working as a teacher until things all seemed to hit rock bottom at once.  After being evicted, fired, and losing a close friend to suicide, Eugenie refused to give up. She researched how to get herself out the hole she was in and the information she learned along the way instilled in her a passion for helping women of color with financial wellness.  Today Eugenia will share with us more about the path that led her to financial education and some of what her upcoming book is going to be teaching on.  In This Episode We Discuss: The entreprenuerial spirit that was in Eugenia from childhood How she went from having paid off student loans, a savings account and building a business to broke and evicted The importance of doing the research to know you aren’t alone How relationships can impact your finances and the importance of who you surround yourself with Why transparency about finances is important for you and others You can download the first chapter of Eugenie’s upcoming book Our Money Stories at her website here and you can follow along with her work and story on Twitter. And, don’t forget to check out her podcast Monday and Flow.

Today’s guest is Carol Jones the Financial Planning Apprentice for Urban Wealth Management. Carol’s interest in financial planning stems from the struggles she experienced in helping her family with everything from budgeting to retirement. She was selected as one of two recipients of the 2019 Association of African American Financial Advisors Dalton Education Scholarship and is enrolled in the Certificate of Financial Planning program at Pepperdine University. Carol has a heart for empowering people, especially women and younger generations to fulfill their dreams from a spiritual, academic and financial perspective.  Today Carol will share with us more about her personal financial story and what led her to pursue a career with financial planning. She’s worked hard to learn about different financial areas not only for herself but to help her Grandmother and parents to get on the right track in areas where there was a gap.  In This Episode We Discuss: How Carol’s piggy bank was the start to her financial education Why you should challenge the stigma about attending community college The small scholarships that many people overlook Why you shouldn’t create silos from the different areas of your financial future The conversations you should be having with family and friends about finances You can support and learn more about Carol at Urban Wealth Management or on Instagram. And, you can also check out her Instagram account Sisters Walking in Wisdom, with a website that’s coming soon.

The interesting thing is, the diversity conversation wasn’t really a part of her life as the only black girl in her high school graduating class or as a professional athlete and Olympian. But everything changed when she started working in the financial field.  In this podcast episode, Lauryn is transparent on a completely real level about what it’s like to be a minority in the financial industry and why this shouldn’t even be a discussion in 2019.   Here are a few things that Lauryn shares in this episode: The importance of looking at a whole person and not just their “minority” status The difference between privacy and secrecy around finances Her struggle with coat swapping to fit the demographic that she’s interacting with Her insecurities about not being “black enough” The guilt she faces as someone who is an exception to the racial wealth divide Her frustration with being pushed to waive the minority flag Why our financial solutions need to incorporate the whole person, and not just one part of them Lauryn is passionate about talking to others about everything from finances and her advice for professional athletes to diversity and inclusion. If you’re interested in hiring Lauryn to speak you can contact her here.

If you met Anothy ONeal, you probably wouldn’t believe that at one point in his life he was $35K in debt and living homeless in his car. Today he’s debt-free, a best-selling author, speaker, and Ramsey Personality. Since 2003, Anthony has helped hundreds of thousands of students make smart decisions with their money, relationships, and education. He travels the country spreading his encouraging message to help teens and young adults start their lives off right. His latest book, Debt-Free Degree, launched October 2019. Here are a few things that Anthony shares in this episode: How he got $35,000 in debt in college even though he didn’t need a penny for his education.  The importance of taking responsibility for your financial situation instead of blaming it on others.  What “dream home” means to him (and it’s probably not what you think). Why your focus might need to be on increasing your income and not just reducing your expenses. The three things that parents and students need to focus on when planning for college and careers. What the financial conversations that he has with those in his life look like now. The importance of having a budget and writing it down.  You can follow Anthony on YouTube and Instagram @AnthonyONeal and online at anthonyoneal.com or facebook.com/aoneal.

One of the reasons why Worth Listening host, Lauryn Williams decided to share more of her story on the podcast in 2019 is because she gets asked a lot of questions about her personal story (Who doesn’t want to hear more about the only American woman to medal in both the summer and winter Olympics?). And, since she encourages others to be willing to share their financial stories, she wanted to show that’s she’s willing to do the same. In this episode, Lauryn addresses the importance of organizing your finances. She shares how she organizes her finances on both a personal level and as an entrepreneur. In This Episode Lauryn Discusses: The importance of knowing where your money is going How she uses You Need a Budget to keep her accounts in order and work towards her financial goals How “paying yourself” works Why she’s a financial planner with a financial planner of her own The importance of accountability for reaching your financial goals What to look for in a financial planner When you might want to work with an accredited financial counselor If you are interested in talking to a financial planner and getting your finances in order, Lauryn recommends that you check out the following resources: Worth Winning XY Planning Network NAPFA

Today’s guest is Mary Beth Storjohann. She’s a CFP® and Founder of Workable Wealth is not your typical financial planner. With over 14 years of experience in the financial services industry, she works as an author, speaker, and financial coach to apply a fun, albeit no-nonsense approach in working with entrepreneurial women and couples in their 30s – 50s across the country, helping them make smart, educated choices with their money. Mary Beth initially became interested in finances because even though she had hardworking parents, there was a lack of financial education in the household as she grew up. After taking a receptionist position at a financial planning firm while in college, she grew to love the industry, changed her major, and hasn’t looked back since.  As both a financial planner and entrepreneur, Mary Beth has some great advice to share. In this episode we discuss: The connection between money and independence The difference between building a business to run until you’re done with it versus building a business that you can sell How she determined that it was right to merge with another planning firm Why she works with a financial planner even though she is one What her biggest financial mistake was and why she doesn’t regret it How to budget in a way that creates freedom with your spending If you’re interested in learning more about Mary Beth, check out the following: Workablewealth.com Work Your Wealth by Mary Beth Storjohann The Work Your Wealth podcast If you’re interested in learning how to take control of your finances, schedule a FREE call with Lauryn Williams here.

Summer is winding down and many people (or their children) are headed back to school. While we might be more than half way through the year, in a sense, it’s a new year for some and a great time to touch base on our goals. And, each day is a new beginning where we can start again and get back inline on working towards our goals. With all that in mind, on this episode of the Worth Listening podcast, host Lauryn Williams discusses the importance of organizing your finances and how to grade yourself on your efforts. She starts by using herself as an example. So, if you want to know how a Certified Financial Planner grades themselves and what areas they are succeeding and struggling within their own finances, you’re going to want to listen to this. (Hint-Hint: She didn’t give herself an A+.)  After giving herself a grade and explaining why she chose what she did, Lauryn breaks down 5 simple things you can do to start improving your own grade in financial organization.  Here are a few things Lauryn shares in this episode: The importance of reviewing your finances and setting future projections when planning and budgeting Why we need to plan for the unexpected The role discipline plays in your financial goals The five steps to keep in mind when you’re doing financial planning Write it down. Set time-oriented goals. Reward yourself. Have an accountability partner. Don’t count money you don’t have. Lauryn also shares some valuable places where you can look for assistance and help with your financial planning: Worth Winning AFCPE  XYPlanningNetwork NAPFA If you’re interested in speaking with Lauryn to see if she’s a good fit for you when it comes to finacial planning, you can schedule a call here.

Today’s guest is Melanie Finnegan. She’s an expert in tax lien certificate investments and the Founder, CEO, and Managing Partner of Tax Lien Wealth Solutions. Her journey in tax lien investing started at the ground level.  As a single mother with no college degree, she applied for a position in marketing at a local business in her small town that handled tax lien certificates. But, her personality and confidence caused the business owners to offer her a position as a portfolio manager instead. This was the path that led to her becoming an expert in the field and eventually led her to start her own business.  Today Melanie will share with us more about tax lien certificates, advice for single mothers, and what life is like now as an entrepreneur.  In This Episode We Discuss: Why helping children establish a good financial foundation is so important for their future. Why you shouldn’t sweat the small stuff. The importance of having confidence.  How to get started in tax lien certificate investments even with a small budget to work with How Melanie is handling life as an entrepreneur If you’re interested in more information on Melanie or tax lien certificate investments, you can find it at the following: Tax Lien Wealth Solutions  You can also follow Melaine on social media @taxlienwealthsolutions. Her company is running some great contests and giveaways so make sure you check out her website.  If you’re interested in learning how to take control of your finances, schedule a FREE call with Lauryn Williams here.

Today’s guest is Danielle Desir. She’s a travel finance strategist, writer, speaker and the founder of The Thought Card, an award-winning travel finance blog and podcast empowering you to make informed financial decisions - travel more, pay off debt and build wealth.  Growing up in a Haitian family, Danielle learned great savings habits. She even had her first retirement plan setup at the age of 15. But, life happened and she ended up with a graduate degree and a large amount of student loans. With a few strategic decisions and sticking to a financial plan, Danielle paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years and purchased her first home at the age of 27!.  She has also traveled to 26 countries and 3 continents. She strongly believes in not letting your financial responsibilities hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Here are a few things that Danielle shares in this episode: The importance of delayed gratification in helping you achieve your financial goals The two strategies that she used in order to payoff her student loans so fast. And Lauryn shares a little about financial psychology and how it helps you reach your goals.  The surprising thing that she had to give up in order to reach her financial goals A few things to remember when purchasing a house How she enjoys travel by automating her travel budget If you want to connect with Danielle, you can find her at the following places: Blog - Thought Card Podcast - https://podcast.thoughtcard.com/ Social Media - @thethoughtcard If you’re looking for more information on how a financial planner can help you with your finances, schedule a FREE call with Lauryn Williams to get started.

Many people shy away from asking family members about their financial situation, but Lauryn makes some strong points for why it’s so important.  She touches on tips for talking about money with your parents and siblings along with your spouse and children. Lauryn shares a little bit about her own family, why she strives to have financial conversations with them, and how you can do the same.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why it’s so important to know about your parents’ financial situation.  Questions that you can ask your parents and siblings to get the conversation started.  What to do if they say, “it’s none of your business” The importance of being open about finances in your marriage.  Why you need to be open with your children about financial matters as well In the episode Lauryn shares some important questions that should be addressed with your parents. These conversations might feel awkward, but it’s important to have them while you can. If something happens to your parents before you ask these questions, you could be left to figure things out on your own. Here are a few of the questions: Do they have arrangements made for when something happens?  Where do they keep the paperwork you will need to access? Who makes the decisions on their behalf if they are unable to? If you want tips on how to remove the awkwardness from financial conversations check out Episode 65.

If you’ve listened to the Worth Listening podcast before, you know that host, Lauryn Williams, is all for having conversations around money. In fact, that’s why she started the podcast. She wanted to get people talking so they could discover all the benefits. In this episode of the podcast host, Lauryn shares how to start having conversations about money with your family and friends. One of the biggest concerns that people have about money conversations is how awkward the conversations can be. But, they don’t have to be. Lauryn shares some valuable tips to help you out. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What makes financial conversations with family and friends awkward for Lauryn. The importance of remembering that it’s not about talking numbers, it’s all about the strategy. What important money mindset shifts you should make. The questions you can use to start to the conversation Lauryn wants to make it really easy for you to start talking to your friends and family about finances. These questions are designed to make your conversation less awkward. Here are the questions that she shares in the podcast: Questions to start conversations about money   What’s the best piece of financial advice you’ve received? What are your long-term financial goals? How do you measure your financial success? What tools are you using to measure?  What is a question about money that you’ve always wanted to ask someone? What percentage of your income do you spend on housing and how did you come up with this number? How do you deal with large unexpected expenses?  Are you currently saving money for retirement?  Do you and your partner set a financial budget for your home?  Have you ever successfully negotiated a pay raise? (Check out the Negotiate Anything podcast by Kwame Christian for help in this area) What’s one thing you wish your parents would have done differently financially?  What student loan plan are you on?

Today’s guest is Chad Bonham, filmmaker, author, and co-founder of 51 West Entertainment. He has been working in mass media for 29 years. A graduate of the University of Tulsa, Chad has written extensively for over 30 publications and online sites and has authored or co-authored 27 books including Everybody Needs A Head Coach, The Seven C’s of Leadership, 3D Coach, and Life In The Fairway. Along with his work as a journalist and author, Chad has enjoyed success as a broadcast and film producer. He has produced, directed and written six feature length documentaries including The Battle For Brandon and Before The Kick, both of which he is developing into feature film screenplays. Chad has also taken his media experience into the film marketing world as a consultant for various companies such as Ribbow Media, Provident Films, Pure Flix Entertainment, Sony Films, and Affirm Films on more than a dozen movies that have tallied over $200 million at the box office. Chad has spent six years as a media instructor at Victory College in the School of Creative Arts. He also hosts "The CSJ Podcast" and serves as managing editor of christiansportsjournal.com. Chad and his wife Amy live in Broken Arrow, Okla., with sons Lance, Cole and Quinn. How did Chad reach the point of accomplishing all of this? He came from humble beginnings, but his parents instilled some important lessons into him from the start. While it took him a little time to transition from being an employee to really going after his dreams, he’s become unstoppable. Today Chad will share with us more about how his humble upbringings had a big impact on how he handled money in the future. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What the financial transition looks like when going from being employed to being a freelancer The challenges of being the first person in the family to graduate with a four-year degree The importance of operating from a mindset of abundance. Why it’s so important to communication about finances and the budget with your spouse or partner. Check out some of Chad’s latest work: Amazon author page here http://www.thebattleforbrandon.com/ http://christiansportsjournal.com/

In this episode of the Worth Listening podcast host, Lauryn Williams shares how to move past financial failures. In her last episode, Lauryn opened up and shared some of the personal financial failures and mistakes that she has made over the years. Now, she addresses the steps that you need to take in order to rebound from past money mistakes. She provides listeners with practical steps and actionable tips that you can put into play in your own life to turn your financial situation around. No one likes to admit they’ve made a mistake. But, the mistake becomes even bigger when you choose to stay stuck in it. Lauryn wants to show you how to move forward in a positive way. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why the retirement age is being pushed back The importance of acknowledging that there is a problem with your finances. The 5 step plan that can help you rebound from financial failures How to set financial goals that you can stick to The importance of educating yourself on financial matters Why preparedness is crucial to your financial success

Today’s guest is Andrea McGrew, Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Legal Officer at USA Financial. Andrea attended college on a full ride scholarship as a swimmer, where she worked towards an undergrad in broadcast journalism. While in school she worked at Fox Sports Detroit but turned down a local news position after graduation to head to law school where she focused on business and securities law. Andrea focuses on creative effective compliance procedures that are relatable and prides herself on developing relationships with USA Financial advisers and clients and breaking down antiquated compliance stereotypes. She’s the host and creator of the podcast Be UnNiched where she’s working to help support and prove that women are not a niche financial services industry. Andrea breaks it all down for us sharing everything from her experience with student loans to how she and her husband handle merging their finances along with why she thinks it’s so helpful to work with a financial advisor. Andrea shares with us: What is was like weighing the decision to take out student loans and go to law school. The one real financial regret that she has about her student loans. Why she and her husband chose to keep some accounts separate even though they handle their finances together. The importance of working with a financial advisor, even if you have experience in the financial world on your own. The battle that women are facing when working in the world of the financial services industry. If you want to learn more about the initiative that Andrea is undertaking with Be Un Niched, check out the following links: Beunncihed.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Today’s guest is Faneisha “Fo” Alexander. Fo is a Millennial personal finance expert whose story of paying off nearly $78K in debt in less than 3 years took the Internet by storm. She is the editor and chief of the GirlTalkwithFo blog & podcast- a personal finance platform created to teach women how to dump debt, build bank, and create the life they want. Through her online platforms, she shares daily personal finance tips to help women begin to take control of the finances and, ultimately, their lives. In this episode of Worth Listening Fo shares with us more about her upbringing and how she came to find herself in over $80k of debt. She also shares some valuable advice on what you need to focus on if you really want to get out of debt (and it’s not what you might think).   In this episode we discuss: The things her parents did when handling their finances that set a good example for Fo when she was married herself What she did to earn money as a child The importance of understanding how you’re going to pay for college How Fo ended up in debt and the mantra she used to motivate herself to dig her way out The importance of being willing to talk to people about your finances The two things you need to do if you to get out of debt You can learn more about Fo’s book, Dump Debt & Build Bank: The Everyday Chick’s Guide to Money, and see a free preview of it here. And, you can learn more about Fo and the services she offers at her website girltalkwithfo.com or connect with her on social media at the following links: Twitter Facebook Pinterest Instagram

In this episode of the Worth Listening podcast host Lauryn Williams continues sharing her own personal money memoir and she’s diving into a topic that most people like to avoid—financial failures. You may think that as a Certified Financial Planner her financial history is full of one success after another, but financial planners are real people too, that have real financial pasts. Before her career working with money, she was a professional track athlete which came with plenty of financial challenges that a lot of people didn’t understand. From trying to learn how to handle her finances as an athlete and set herself up for life after sports, she developed a passion for helping other athletes and young professionals. One of her goals is to help others avoid the financial mistakes that she made in her past. Here are a few things that Lauryn shares in this episode: What it was like transitioning to life as a professional athlete when she was still in college. The things that her classes as a financial major didn’t teach her that she needed to know in order to handle her everyday finances. The bad experiences that she had with financial advisors throughout her athletic career. Several of her biggest financial mistakes involving life insurance, buying a home, and making investments. What you should look for when choosing a financial planner to work with. The importance of knowing when it’s time to cut your losses and move on. 4 ways to help you recover from financial failure. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guest or would like to share your own money memoir please contact us through our website worth-listening.com.

Today’s guest is Che Scott. Che is a former UM football player that has dedicated his life and career to make an impact on the younger generations. He is the author of Honor: The New Guy Code. His goal is to teach boys how to respect girls and girls how to respect themselves. Today Che will share with us more about his own financial story. He was born in Jamaica into a farming family. This background taught him the difference between needs and wants. His family always had what they needed to survive. As a young boy Che’s family moved to the United States. This opened new doors for him including the opportunity to meet high school friends that opened up his mind to attending college. Che’s five-year goal is to relocate to South Africa where he can continue to spread the message of the Honor: New Guy Code and help impact cultures and teach boys and girls around the world the importance of respect and honor. In This Episode We Discuss: The lessons Che carries with him from his rural background. The importance of a good work ethic. What financial decisions Che is making to help him with his future plans of living abroad. The money hack Che used to save money on housing. Why we need to change our thinking about our spending habits. You can find out more about Che Scott’s books and program at the website http://honormoves.com/ and follow Che on Twitter here.

In this episode of the Worth Listening podcast host, Lauryn Williams continues sharing her own personal money memoir by discussing her experience with earning an athletic scholarship, why she chose the University of Miami, and how she handled her finances in college. Lauryn broke some of the popular stereotypes about college students and finances. She was responsible with credit cards and didn’t get caught up in spending money on things that weren’t needed. And, while she might not have needed student loans herself, as a financial planner she has become an expert on working with clients to create student loan plans.   Here are a few things that Lauryn shares in this episode: Why she chose to attend the University of Miami How she handled her finances in college How she felt about borrowing money (even from friends) The importance of having good influences in your life The surprising things she didn’t feel prepared for in her own finances when college was over (even as a finance major) The difference between paying on your student loans and having a student loan plan Links mentioned in podcast: www.studentloanplanner.com

Today’s guest is Sheria Smith, Civil Rights Attorney for the U.S. Board of Education. Sheria excelled at academics from a young age and used that gift to work her way up and out of Gary, Indiana. At the age of 14, she attended a boarding school on the east coast to increase her chance of making it to an Ivy League school. It was this experience that showed her how money looks and spends. Sheria didn’t let her advancement stop there. She graduated from Harvard with a degree in Government and eventually earned a law degree from the University of Texas. Today Sheria will share with us more about what it was like growing up in a town where most people were struggling to make it financially along with the similarities and difference of those that she went to boarding school with. In This Episode We Discuss: How sometimes helping family and friends the most financially isn’t always the way they want you to help them. The difference between how people with new money behaved compared to those with old money. The importance of understanding that credit cards aren’t always bad if you know how to use them. The extra pressure she feels to rise above. How to recover from financial mistakes. Connect with Sheria Facebook: Sheria Smith Instagram: @sherialaw LinkedIn: Sheria Smith Hey, Worth Listening listeners, do any of you have student loans hanging over your head? You know they are there. You pay on them, but you try to never think of them because it depresses you that you’ll be paying on them forever. Is that you? If you’re ignoring your student loans it’s time to develop a serious strategy to face them head-on. Check out our options at studentloanplanner.com. Word of the Day: Nouveau Riche, which also means “new money”. Sheria talked about how she could tell the difference between old money and new money. Old money acted like they didn’t have it because they were comfortable with it being there. New money liked to flaunt it and show off what they had. This is a good reminder that as you build wealth, especially if you aren’t used to having it you really need to think twice about how you’re spending it. You want to look like old money. Don’t think you have to be flashy to prove you are making it, those that are truly wealthy aren’t worried about impressing others. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guest or would like to share your own money memoir please contact us through our website worth-listening.com.

On this episode of Worth Listening, Lauryn continues sharing more of her money memories and the role it plays on her financial life right now. She has always had the mindset of an entrepreneur and as a teenager loved being able to make her own money so no one could tell her what to do with it. Just wait until you hear some of the ways that she made money as a child! Now, as an adult, Lauryn isn’t motivated as much by wanting to have money that has full control over, but by the contribution that she can make on the world through the work that she’s doing. Lauryn also shares with us about her time working in the service industry, an important perspective we should have on judging other people’s spending, and more. In This Episode Lauryn shares: How she used to race her neighborhood kids for money (this is a story you want to hear) The feeling of independence that money can bring Why tips should just be a bonus and not how people make a living How a simple mindset shift can help us stop judging the way others use their finances

Today’s guest is an entrepreneur, speaker, and branding expert, Matt LeBris. Matt started his journey as an entrepreneur at the ripe old age of 12 when he and a neighbor kid started selling their parents’ groceries off the front porch. While the business only lasted a week, Matt caught the entrepreneurial bug. When he was 17 and a freshman in college he started his first real business which he had major success with. Over the years Matt has experienced plenty of ups and downs in his finances. While he’s modest about his the success that he has experienced he’s more than willing to share the mistakes and failures he’s made with others. And, this is exactly what we are looking for on the Worth Listening podcast! Matt shares with us: His experience failing out of college and looking back what the reasons are that led up to it. The importance of owning up to your financial mistakes and forgiving yourself. How important it is to have mentors and ask questions. Why you need to be able to separate your needs from your wants. Connect with Matt: Twitter: @Matt_LeBris Instagram: @Matt_LeBris Facebook: Matt LeBris LinkedIn: Matt LeBris Website: MattLeBris.com Word of the Day: Receive When Matt was talking about being able to forgive ourselves for our financial mistakes he also shared the importance of being able to “receive” the lessons that we have coming our way. The key to being able to correct and move forward is being able to receive the lessons and take ownership of our actions. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Back in the final episode of 2018, podcast host, Lauryn Williams, gave us a heads up that we would get to find out more about her in the 2019 episodes and that time has come! Have you been wondering who the woman is behind Worth Winning? Or, wondering what made a four-time Olympian decide to turn her attention over to financial planning? Well, you’ll get your answers throughout Lauryn’s personal money memoir series. In this first episode of her series, Lauryn reminisces about her childhood and her first memories of money. She’ll also share what life was like growing up with divorced parents and splitting her time between Philadelphia and Detroit. While it might not have been a “traditional” upbringing it’s one Lauryn enjoyed and her mom said they put the “fun” in dys-fun-ctional! Lauryn shares with us: Where her entrepreneurial spirit came from How she learned to balance fun with structure How the example you had of money when you are growing up can impact the financial decisions you are making today The importance of reflecting on your early memories to decipher your beliefs about money

Today’s guest is Adele Jackson Gibson. Adele is s a sports journalist, fitness coach, fitness model, and an athlete. She is an athlete that tells other athletes’ stories, but today she is sharing her own money memoir with us. Adele came from a family that was financially solid. She didn’t grow up having to worry about finances and was even blessed to graduate from college with no student loans. However, that doesn’t mean that there haven’t been financial hiccups and mistakes made as she transitioned into #adulting and handling her own finances. Today Adele will share more about her largest financial mistake. It was a simple oversight that had large consequences. She’s open with us about the impact that it made on her, as well as how changing her self-talk and money mindset is helping her overcome it. In This Episode We Discuss: The importance of financial literacy when it comes to employment. How having an employee mindset can hurt an entrepreneur. The importance of your mindset and self-talk when it comes to your finances. How money is similar to your cardiovascular system. Connect with Adele:  Instagram: @adelejackson26 Twitter: @AdeleJG26 Website: adelejacksongibson.com Word(s) of the Day: W2 and 1099 You may be wondering what the difference is between W2 and 1099 let me clear it up for you a little. A W2 employee you fill out a W4 initially is an employee that receives a W2 form at the end of the year from their employer. Your employer deducts your payroll taxes and sends them to the government for you. On the other hand, a person receives a 1099 because he/she is a contractor. You first fill out a W9 then At the end of the year, the company provides you with a 1099 showing what they have paid you over the year. All taxes are your responsibility to pay. One isn’t better than the other, you just need to know which applies to you so you can plan accordingly. So, if you aren’t making estimated tax payments throughout the year you are going to get hit with an unexpected bill as Adele did. But, it is so important that you understand the difference so you can budget your finances properly. There’s nothing like an unexpected tax bill to blow your budget, steal your savings, or put you in debt. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

What a year it has been! This was my first year podcasting and we've gotten great feedback on the episodes, so a HUGE thank you to all the Worth Listening listeners and guests! My original goal was to have a new podcast every other week, but it turned into a weekly podcast. I interviewed millennials with amazing financial stories and learned a lot from each one of them. These podcasts helped me to discover some great ideas on how to best serve my clients in 2019. There's nothing more important to me than being able to help people organize their finances and knowing their lives will be changed because of it. Six years ago I found good financial planning and I've never wanted to turn back since. Here are a few things that I share in this episode: What exciting changes are coming to the podcast in 2019. (Hint Hint - you might get to know a little more about me) Why it's so important to be open about your finances and have discussions with those you are close to. Why I'm so passionate about money discussions. An offering from Worth Winning that will enable you to take your finances to the next level in 2019. Information on some products I'm creating to help everyone be able to afford the financial help they need. My personal goal for 2019 It's that time of year when everyone's talking about resolutions. I'm not big on resolutions because to me they are things that you say you are going to do but have no action plan behind it. Instead, I think we need to be setting goals, writing them down, setting parameters around them on how we are going to reach those goals. This is what it should look like: My goal is to _______ and I’m going to do that by ____________, ________________, and ___________________. I'd love to hear what your goals are for 2019. After you listen to the podcast feel free to share your goals with me at [email protected]. I can't wait to bring you fresh new material in 2019 and to share my own money memoir with you. As always, if you need help with your finances check out the Worth Winning services. I wish you all the best in 2019! If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Claudia Steer. Claudia immigrated to the United States from London when she was just a teenager. Coming from what would be similar to the projects over in London, Claudia grew up with a scarcity mindset that impacted her life for many years. She took the long road to the corporate world but eventually landed a job where she earned 10 years of experience developing creative strategies for some of the largest brands in the world, including McDonald’s, Coke Zero, Burger King and New Balance. However, the corporate world just wasn’t cutting it for Claudia. She decided to leave in order to start a freelance career. Now, she’s hard at work building her freelance career while also turning her focus to the world of interior design. There are exciting things coming in Claudia’s future including in her finances. Claudia admits that a lack of financial literacy caused her to make some poor financial decisions throughout her life. But, now she has a plan and is working hard to straighten out her finances. In This Episode We Discuss: What it’s like living with a scarcity mindset. What it means to be “house poor” and the importance of understanding your mortgage options. The “good debt vs bad debt” myth. The importance of financial literarcy when it comes to things like student loans, 401k, and financial planning. The fact that financial mistakes don’t always equal frivilous spending. Connect with Claudia:  Email: [email protected] Websites: www.nw10interiors.com www.steerstrategies.com Instagram: @nw10interiors Word of the Day: Financial Literacy Investopedia defines financial literacy as, “the education and understanding of various financial areas including topics related to managing personal finance, money and investing.” But, I want to stress to you that you don’t have to become an expert in the world of finances in order to succeed. Claudia shared with us that earlier this year she invested some of her time and money into meeting with someone that helped her develop a plan for her finances. I believe it’s important that you know what you’re doing with your finances and why, but it’s ok to have someone else help you out. We can’t do all things and know all things so it’s important that we admit what we don’t know and find someone that does The difference between success and failure in your finances is strategy. If you are struggling to create a strategy that works for your finances check out worth-winning.com to see what options are available. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].  

Today’s guest is Tela Holcomb. Let’s cut right to the chase, Tela retired at the age of 29! It didn’t happen because she was born into money, won the lotto, or took any other shortcut. She reached that point through educating herself on the stock market and trading. Tela is an Air Force Veteran that joined the military because she wanted to force herself to commit to something that she would not be able to quit. She grew up in a small town and she wanted to give herself a chance to be gone for long enough that she could guarantee herself a change. Today she spends her time teaching others how they can use investments and trading as a source of income and change their financial futures. She gets to do this purely because she enjoys it, not because she needs the money from it. Today Tela will share with us more about the basic financial lessons her mom taught her that helped set her on the right path for handling her finances in the future. She shares how she started learning about investments and why she struggled with the idea of “retiring” and focusing on her investments and trading. In This Episode We Discuss: How learning to balance a checkbook, budget, and pay the bills made such a difference in her life. The importance of trademarking in your business. The importance of not increasing your spending every time you get an increase in your pay. Why she and her husband have been able to be successful in handling finances in marriage. Why it’s important to teach your children more than you were taught in order to expand what they can achieve. Connect with Tela: Instagram: instagram.com/telaholcomb/ Facebook: facebook.com/TelaHolcomb/ Twitter: twitter.com/telaholcomb Websites:Telaholcomb.com and tradeyour9to5.com/ Word of the Day: Trademarking A trademark is essentially a symbol or set of words intended to be used to identify and distinguish the brand name of one seller or provider from others. You need to legally register your name and logo so others can’t impersonate your material. Tela shared some reasons on why this is so important and I need to get to it! Trademarking your ideas helps you protect your intellectual property. You may have some great ideas that could really help you change your financial future, but if you don’t protect those ideas you could lose them completely. Tela is able to rest easy because she knows if someone tries to use her something she created, her intellectual property, her trademark attorney’s got her back. It’s not only important to make the money and create the ideas, but it’s also important to protect what you have created. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Malcolm Lemmons. Malcolm was a professional basketball player that played overseas before transitioning to life as an entrepreneur. The time he spent overseas showed him the importance of athletes having a plan to transition to life after sports because there are very few athletes that aren’t going to need to find a way to earn an income once their athletic career is over. Malcolm is the author of Lessons from the Game, a motivational speaker and the founder of Players Point Agency. His company works to help professional athletes, executives, and entrepreneurs expand and monetize their brand and influence. Today Malcolm will share with us more about the misperceptions that society has about money. His mother was a doctor but as a single mother raising two boys in an expensive city she struggled to make ends meet. From her title people automatically assumed they were better off than they were. She worked hard, sometimes at multiple jobs, to make ends meet. People also assume that all professional athletes have bottomless pockets. After playing overseas Malcolm can tell you that it’s a whole different story. This is why it’s important to keep your focus on your own finances instead of what you “think” everyone else has. In This Episode We Discuss: What life is really like as a college student athlete or professional athlete overseas. The importance of budgeting your money now so you can accomplish what you want in the future. Why you need to focus on the opportunities and not the obstacles. The importance of discussing finances strategy with your circle of friends. Malcolm on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malcolmlemmons/ https://www.instagram.com/playerspointagency/ https://www.instagram.com/playerspointpodcast/ Malcolm on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/malcolm.rashad https://www.facebook.com/Playerspointagency/ https://www.facebook.com/playerspointpodcast/ Malcolm on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MalcolmLemmons Malcolm's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Game-Malcolm-Lemmons/dp/1544941447 Malcolm's Website:  http://playerspointagency.com/ Word of the Day: Loans Loans - The act of lending or a grant of temporary use of something. The idea is someone gives you something and you’re supposed to give it back. The reason I picked this is we need to be really strict with our loan policy heading into 2019. Why? Friends and family don’t let friends and family have f’d up finances. If someone comes to you to ask for money we need to have conversations with them about finances instead of just handing money over. Let’s start talking to the people we care about their money issues and our own. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Angela E. Matthews. She calls herself a serial entrepreneur because she loves the entrepreneurship lifestyle and has built several businesses over the years. Currently, she’s the woman behind the Happy Investor Method. Angela learned how to use investments to her advantage and is passionate about teaching others how to do the same. Angela wasn’t taught how to handle money as a child. Her parents moved to the US from Guyana in the late ’70s and in their culture you had what you needed but little else. Growing up if she needed clothes for school or money for a class trip she could ask for it, but she didn’t earn an allowance or have a source of income to teach her financial strategy or savings. Her parents stressed the importance of education overworking when she was in school. But, when she hit college she found out there was another way to live and there was money to be had. She discovered that while education is important having a job and a paycheck could also help her throughout her time in college. That set her on the path that eventually led to her creating the Happy Investor Method. Angela has had to overcome a few obstacles on the path to where she is right now, but there is one thing that helped her along the way—her ability to not take “no” as the final answer. There have been multiple times throughout her life that people told her “no” but she pushed on and found a way to make it happen. In This Episode We Discuss: How her parent’s debt impacted her ability to get financial aid for college. How she ended up in investments as a philosophy major. The difference between obtaining wealth and preserving wealth. How she started investing and what she encourages her clients to do. The importance of changing your mindset when it comes to your situation and your finances. Angela on Facebook: facebook.com/TheAngelaEMatthews Learn more about Angela: happyinvestormethod.com Word of the Day: Choice Choice-making a decision when faced with two or more possibilities. The key here is POSSIBILITIES. Mindset might have you saying there are no other options. Choose to focus on the possibilities and then take action change is inevitable. “Sometimes you think you’re born into a situation and you’re going to have to die in that situation and it really gives you the feeling of hopelessness. But the second you realize you have a choice, which we all have, then you can actually be diligent about changing your situation.” You can choose to figure it out on your own. You can choose to invest in yourself by enlisting the help of a professional to help you with the strategy and accountable to make the changes in a timely fashion.   If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Danny Harvey. Danny is the Director of Financial Planning & Finance Faculty at Prairie View A&M University. He is also a professional speaker and financial advisor. He came from humble beginnings where he didn’t go without, but he also didn’t realize how little they actually had. He was raised by a single-mother that taught him the principles of hard work and saving money. He became great at saving money even though he didn’t really know what he was saving it for. While going to college was something he wanted to do, it was also something he was told that he was going to do. Danny majored in economics at Texas A&M. His plan was to work for an investment firm, get rich, and then eventually become a professor and financial advisor when he was old and gray. But, life doesn’t always go as we plan. He transitioned to a position as a professor and advisor far sooner than he thought and he isn’t looking back. Today Danny will share with us more about the lessons he wished he would have listened to when he first heard them in college along with the lessons that he is working to teach high school and college students. In This Episode We Discuss: Why it’s better to be wise and learn from someone else’s mistake instead of always using life and personal experience to learn lessons the hard way. Why we need to start educating students about personal finances in high school instead of waiting until college courses. Danny talks about a program he started with this classes where the college students go into high school classrooms to educate the students. Understanding that money is a tool and you need to know how to put that tool to work for you and your future. And, the sooner you do it the better it is. The importance of having a fluid financial plan that is able to adapt as your life and goals change. Danny on Instagram: instagram.com/mrdannyharvey/ Danny on Twitter: twitter.com/mrdannyharvey Danny on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danny-harvey-mba/ Word of the Day: Wisdom I liked the way Danny defined wisdom as learning from someone else’s mistakes. Why learn financial mistakes the hard way? It can take a long time to recover from handling your finances wrong. That’s one reason regular discussions about money is so important. The more you can learn from others the fewer hard lessons that are going to come your way. If you still feel stuck or have questions start asking everyone around you. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Rana Campbell. Rana recently transitioned from her 9 to 5 job to become an entrepreneur. She is the woman behind the Dreams in Drive podcast and website where you can find the encouragement, motivation, and steps you need to start living your dream life. Rana’s story is a bit different than many that we have had on the podcast in the past. She hasn’t been a professional athlete and she hasn’t had to dig herself out of a huge hole of debt. And, she wasn’t raised in a home where she had to worry about having the necessities that she needed. Instead, her parents set for her the example of hard work and the value of a dollar. She was taught the importance of putting money in the bank and why you should save money for the things you want instead of using credit cards to buy them now. However, these strong and important lessons actually created money blocks in her mind that she has had to overcome in order to pursue her dream and run her business. Today Rana will share with us more about the lessons that she learned about money as a child that helped set up her for success in life, even if she didn’t understand them at the time. In This Episode We Discuss: The importance of understanding the financial aid packages offered at different colleges. That it is okay to spend money when you do it within reason The difference between saving money and building wealth. The importance of knowing when you need to spend money in order to keep improving yourself or your business. Rana on Instagram: instagram.com/dreamsindrive/ Rana on Twitter: twitter.com/dreamsindrive Rana on Facebook: facebook.com/dreamsindrive/ Rana's Website: dreamsindrive.com/ Word of the Day: Allocate. Setting something aside for a specific purpose. It’s important to give your dollars a job. Some should be saved in a saving account. Some should be invested. Some should be in your retirement plan and of course, you have a spend a little. If you don’t tell your money where to go, you will be wondering where it went. When you give your money a job you can make it literally work for you. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].  

Today’s guest is Kwame Christian. Kwame is a business lawyer that has transitioned to his work as Director of the American Negotiation Institute. He provides training through workshops that teach people how to make difficult conversations easier. His podcast, Negotiate Anything, has been downloaded more than 350,000 times by listeners in more than 180 countries. Today Kwame will share with us more about what made him transition from his career as a lawyer to working as an entrepreneur providing trainings and speaking around the country. In This Episode We Discuss: What it means to be a “war time leader” or “peacetime leader” with your finances The fact that you really can negotiate anything (including your cable bill) The importance of how you handle your “bonus money” How great it feels to have a job that you love Kwame on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/ Kwame's website: americannegotiationinstitute.com Kwame's book: Nobody Will Play With Me: How To Use Compassionate Curiosity to Find Confidence in Conflict Negotiate Anything on Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negotiate-anything-negotiation-persuasion-influence/id1101679010?mt=2 Word of the Day: Negotiation.   This is one of Kwame’s passions and he describes it as any conversation where a person in the conversation wants something. When it comes to your finances it’s important that you remember to negotiate. You can negotiate to increase your salary or to decrease your monthly expenses. Remember, it never hurts to ask. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Amara Legget. Amara is a motivational speaker who travels the country to share her message on how to make the impossible possible in your life. She is running her business while working towards a bachelor’s degree. But, what really makes her stand out is that she is 17 years old. She earned her high school diploma and an associate's degree at the age of 16. Today Amara will share with us more about the path that she used to accomplish this use feat and how she is growing her business as a motivational speaker. In This Episode We Discuss: How the Dual Enrollment program works. Ways to make money from a blog. How she is building her brand as a motivational speaker. The hardest thing about being an entrepreneur. The importance of looking professional. Amara on Instagram: instagram.com/a.young.legend/ Amara on Pinterest: pinterest.com/ayounglegend/ Amara on YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCQ4wpyfVUtuVJe95-XaTFvQ?view_as=subscriber Amara's Website: ayounglegend.weebly.com/ Word of the Day: Impossible. Amara’s message is on making the impossible possible in your life and I’d like to talk about that word “impossible”. It means incapable of being or incurring. This is a word that holds us back from achieving greater things. It’s a word that limits our mindset. People believe things like “it’s impossible to save for retirement while paying on student loans” or “it’s impossible to go to college without taking student loans” or “it’s impossible to get out of the financial hole that I’m in”. Let me tell you, these things are not impossible. Sometimes, we just need to change up our vocabulary which affects our mindset. If you feel like you are in an “impossible” place with getting to your financial goals start by talking to (friend, planner, therapist) to see what you can do to make the “impossible” possible. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Dave Claffey, Head of Communications at the startup Earnin. Dave served in the National Guard before attending college. It took him a little time to find his path, but once he did he has worked hard at every job to reach the top and then move on to the next opportunity. He has his numbers set towards financial independence and early retirement and is well on his way. Today Dave will share with us the ups and downs of his financial journey. He very recently paid off his last debt (minus a house) and has several side-hustles going to help him grow his investments. In This Episode We Discuss The difficulties of being the first person in the family to go to college. How his time in the military helped him get out of debt and what caused him to go back in debt. The 3 things that he tells people about getting their finances in order. How the app Earnin differs from a payday loan advance and how they’re helping their customers. What it means to work for a start-up. Dave on Instagram: instagram.com/earnin_official/ Dave on Facebook: facebook.com/EarninOfficial/ Dave on Twitter: twitter.com/earnin Dave's website: https://www.earnin.com/ The Word of the Day: Payday Loan   I do not encourage you to ever use a payday loan! Yes, it gives you quick access to cash, but the average APR on one of these loans is 400%. If money gets tight you don’t have extra to be throwing away on one of these loans. Borrowing from one of these predatory lenders is like putting a bandaid on a gunshot wound. To avoid ever having to consider borrowing start building an emergency fund right now while there is no emergency. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Kyle Miller. He is a UX Designer that has worked with brands such as Under Armour and Capital One. He also has several side hustles going including the development of the app Goodfynd which helps you locate food trucks near you in the DC area. However, while he has been an entrepreneur since childhood he went to college for property management. He has an interesting story on how he wound up as a UX Designer. Today Kyle will share with us more about the creative ways he made money as a child and how he is putting that same entrepreneurial spirit to live in his adult life and finances. In This Episode We Discuss: What motivated him to start making money as a pre-teen. The pitfalls of student loans. The feeling of empowerment that finances can bring. The importance of working with a financial planner and why it’s worth it to pay a professional instead of trying to do it yourself. Kyle on Instagram: instagram.com/fwdthinkrs/ Kyle's websites: https://www.goodfynd.com/ https://www.fwdthinkrs.com/ https://www.kylmllr.com/ The Word of the Day: Splurge When we splurge on something, we are spending money that we don’t have or know is intended for some other purpose. This is extravagant. However, I am of the opinion that having a budget and planning to do the things you love will allow you to spend with true freedom. It’s ok to plan to enjoy the things important to you. Planning allows you to spend freely. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].  

Terrie Chantel climbed the corporate ladder in the IT field for over a decade before turning her focus over to the side hustle she had been building along preparing tax returns and doing credit repair. She has now launched The Greenhouse Academy, which is full of how-to trainings on everything from personal and business finance to credit repair. Today Terrie will share with us more about her personal credit story and how she learned about credit repair firsthand when discovering she had negative accounts in her name from childhood. She also shares with us about her emotional climb up the corporate ladder as an African American woman in the IT field and the passion that drove her to helping others with their finances. In This Episode We Discuss: The negative effects of trying to look and play the part of corporate America. How she got started in investments. What credit repair really is and who it can help. The importance of chasing passion and not money. Chantel's Website: https://mygreenhouseacademy.com/ The Word of the Day: Racial Wealth Divide   Earning a middle-class income does not guarantee middle-class economic security. White households in the middle-income quintile own nearly eight times as much wealth as middle-income Black earners and ten times as much wealth as middle-income Latino earners. This disconnect in income earned and wealth owned is visible across the entire income spectrum between these groups. If the middle class were to be defined by wealth rather than by income, Black and Latino families in the middle-income quintile would need to earn 2-3 times as much as White families in order to enter the middle class. This is one reason why educating yourself is so important. There are plenty of initiatives working to help address this major problem. Institute for Policy Studies and Prosperity NOW have done extensive research and have very good resources to provide you with more information. We have a long way to go and one way I can see to start making changes is to keep financial conversations going. Remember, It’s not about the numbers but about the strategies.   If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Host Lauryn Williams records a solo episode with a retrospective of past episodes, so if you've missed any, this is a good look at episodes worth going back and listening to. She also shares advice for planning a budget and managing your finances. Those you think may be good advisors may be selling a product, like insurance, instead of a service, like helping you set a budget and stick to it. Get ready for a soapbox moment, as well as some trusted resources. Resources: XY Planning Network - XYPlanningNetwork.com The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - NAPFA.org Past Episodes Mentioned: Ep 022: Scholarships, Student Loans, and Choosing a Side Hustle with Deshaya Williams Ep 023: Difficult beginnings to pursuing your passion and the financial life you desire with Georgia Rappleye Ep 024: The Ultimate Financial Comeback Story with Marques Ogden Ep 025: Finding Financial Freedom with Rianka Dorsainvil Ep 026: “Always be an Intern” How learning from others led to a career in Acquisitions With DJ Moultrie Ep 027: Banking Budgeting and Business with Kayla McDowell Ep 028: Self Worth and Setting Goals: It’s an Inside Job with Jasmine Henderson Ep 029: Finding Freedom after the Podium, A Recovering Perfectionist’s Take on Finances with Samantha Arsenault Livingstone Ep 030: The NFL, Entrepreneurship, and Avoiding Costly Mistakes, With Jeron Mastrud Ep 031: Don’t Be Overcome By Your Student Loan Debt with Travis Hornsby Ep 032: Reverse Retirement and Financial Planning with Tashari Berry Ep 033: Spend Money Like you Spend your Time with Jeneba Tarmoh Ep 034: If You Don’t Have it, Create It with Alechia Reese Ep 035: Rebekah Aladdin Overcomes Generational Poverty and Strives for More Ep 036: Work hard, Save harder - Saving 60 Percent of Everything I Make with Jonathan Weislow Ep 037: Journey to Launch Financial Independence with Jamila Souffrant Ep 038: Using Investment Principles for Debt Solutions Ep 039: Feeding others first requires feeding yourself with Chef Latoya Rush If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].

Today’s guest is Professor, Chef, and Navy Veteran, Latoya Rush. She works as a Professor teaching Surgical Technology by day and is a chef/caterer/food blogger by night. Her goal is to eventually transition to her catering business full time. Today Latoya will share with us more about her rough transition to civilian life that resulted in her losing everything and how she turned it all around. She will also share the important lessons she learned along the way and what she is teaching her daughter about finances. In This Episode We Discuss: What makes the transition from military life to civilian life so difficult and why so many veterans struggle. The hardest thing about being behind on your bills and trying to work your way out of debt. Why the small things matter in your finances. Why you need to take care of yourself first when it comes to your finances. Things to be mindful of when pursuing life as an entrepreneur (hint-there’s a lot of people trying to profit from this group of people right now). Latoya on Instagram: instagram.com/oldfieldnpierce/ Latoya on Pinterest: pinterest.com/rushllaj/ Latoya on LinkedIn: twitter.com/ThePeachChef www.oldfieldnpierce.com/ The Word of the Day: Transition “The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.” Life is full of transitions, graduating college, joining or leaving the military, changing jobs, getting married, buying a home, starting a family, starting a business, retiring and the list goes on. these life-altering events often come with big changes to your finances. If you want to have the financial future that you dream of you need to have a plan that helps you keep your finances on track during times of transition. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected].  

Today’s guest is Blayne Bristol. She is a former opera singer-turned-entrepreneur. Blayne is the founder and CEO of Beyond Bridges Social. Her company is a one-stop shop for digital marketing with a focus geared towards Commercial Real Estate. Blayne completely opens up with us as she shares both the highs and lows of her money memoirs. She shares with us how she used to have a selfish mindset without even realizing it, how pushing herself to the limit took a huge toll on her health and the collapse and rise of her financial story. In This Episode We Discuss: That you can dig out of the hole and it doesn’t need to take as long as you think. The danger of overextending yourself. How it only took 90 days to make and break her financial story. The lightbulb moment when Blayne decided to apply investment principles to her debt repayment plan. How she’s paying off around $100k of debt in just 24 months. Blayne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbridgesocial/ Blayne on Facebook: https://business.facebook.com/BBridgeSocial Blayne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bbridgesocial/ beyondbridgessocial.com/ The Word of the Day: Bootstrapping The dictionary definition is to “get (oneself or something) into or out of a situation using existing resources.” Blayne isn’t getting out of debt because she hit the lotto or found a job with a huge pay raise. Instead, she figured out how to use the income she already had to dig her way out of the hole as quickly as possible. If you feel like your financial situation is hopeless I can promise you that it’s not. You may just need a new perspective.   If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected]  

Today’s guest is Jamila Souffrant. Jamila is the founder of the Journey to Launch blog and podcast where she shares what she is doing to work towards financial independence. She is still working in corporate America right now but is well on her way to making that leap. Today Jamila will share with us more about how she was able to purchase her first property right out of college and how she and her husband have managed to save around $85k a year for the past couple years. In This Episode We Discuss: What she learned being raised by a mother that worked hard to bring her to America and provide a better life for her. How much the lack of money really matters. The importance of being resourceful instead of focusing on your resources. Why you need to create your own definition of financial independence. Jamila on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeytolaunch/ Jamila on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/journeytolaunch Jamila on Twitter: https://twitter.com/journeytolaunch JourneytoLaunch.com Journey to Launch podcast The Word of the Day: Financial Independence Jamila’s story centers around working towards Financial Independence. I love the way she described that financial independence doesn’t mean that you never work again. It just means that you don’t have to depend on that paycheck or job in order to live. It gives you the freedom to choose what you want to do in your life. And, it doesn’t look the same to everyone. Your goals might not be the same goals that Jamila has, or that i have, or that your neighbor has. It’s important that you determine what this would look like to you. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected]  

Today’s guest is Jonathan Weislow. Jonathan is a former University of Miami baseball player, Director of Operations at Amicon Management, and made the ‘30 Under 30’ list from the University of Miami Alumni Association this year. Today Jonathan will share with us more about his financial experience through college and the long road he took to the career he has today. He also shares with us his savings strategy (which includes saving 60% of his income). In This Episode We Discuss: How hard work does pay off and if you want to make more money you just need to work a little harder. The truth about what you make when you graduate with an advanced degree. The importance of having patience in your finances. Amicon Management: amiconmanagement.us/ The Word of the Day: Patience The definition is “the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset”. Jonathan and his wife lived in a 1-bedroom apartment for 7 years while saving up money. He is building the financial future that he wants through patience. So many people lose their patience and want that instant gratification that they end up setting themselves back further. A little patience goes a long way in your finances. If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected]

Today’s guest is Rebekah Aladdin, celebrity makeup artist. Rebekah overcame generation poverty, attended college, and saved her way to being able to go after her dream. Her work as a makeup artist has been featured in 11 magazines this year. Her celebrity clientele includes Lena Waithe, Aisha Hinds, Justine Skye, Winnie Harlow, Cassie, Mary Mary, and Normani Kordei to name a few. Today Rebekah will share with us more about her upbringing and how it impacted her ability to attend college. She’ll share about the things she did to make ends meet and help her family at the same time and the smart decisions that she made that allowed her to take a risk on herself. In This Episode We Discuss: Generational poverty and how intelligence is a resource. The difference between a necessity and a treat. The mindset change that helped Rebekah embrace life as a freelancer and overcome her money hangups. How to know when it’s time to hire a team. Rebekah on Instagram: @rebekahaladdin Rebekah's website: www.rebekahaladdin.com The Word of the Day: Insurance I thought about describing IUL’s but what I really want to discuss is how to avoid being taken advantage of. The reason I got so upset when I heard Rebakah say that an insurance purchase went poorly for her is because it happens far too frequently. An insurance agent decides to refer to him or herself as a financial advisor but the only advice they provide is "buy this insurance." They do not help you understand your budget. They do not consider whether you have an emergency fund in place. Are you contributing to retirement? Do you have a good strategy for your student loan debt? Insurance is a product, not a service. It is unfortunate that we must be wary of people who refer to themselves as advisors and that you expect to provide a service but really are just peddling a crappy product that does not consider your complete financial picture and disappear once the sale has been made. This damages the image of the financial industry and in particular makes it hard for those of us who aren’t selling a product but providing a service. Insurance is not bad. Its job is to protect you from a risk. There is a type that is appropriate for you but a person first needs to know your full story before prescribing a cure. Some questions to ask when someone is encouraging you to purchase a product: How they get paid for your purchase. What happens when you want to get rid of the policy? What happens if you need to stop paying that premium for awhile? Do you provide support outside of this insurance purchase? If you have financial questions, suggestions for guests, or would like to share your own money memoir, please contact us through our website worth-listening.com. If you're liking the show, make sure to let me know by leaving a review or sending an email to [email protected]

Today’s guest is Alechia Reese. She is a single mother, founder of 360 Gateway Brands, award-winning author of Eating Elephants, certified professional international speaker, and co-founder of a nonprofit that works to bring the STEM experience to inner-city youth. Her resume is impressive including doing work for companies like Progressive, UPS, BET, the Miami Marlins, Grey Goose, Vogue Italia, and Verizon. She is all about empowerment and equipping people to succeed. Today Alechia will share with us more about how she rose out of poverty to create a successful life for herself and her daughter. She is extremely open with the details of her life and shares about the ups and downs that she has had along the way. In This Episode We Discuss: The advice her mom gave her that everyone can learn from. The 5 senses of money. The importance of building relationships and knowing how to play the game in your industry. Why you should never hide from creditors and what you should do instead. Alechia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alechiareese/ Alechia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alechiareese Alechia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/alechiareese Find out more about Alechia:  https://www.alechiareese.com https://www.360gatewaybrands.com/

Today’s guest is Jeneba Tarmoh. She is a track and field sprinter that has found success in college as an All-American and professionally including a gold medal in the 2012 Olympics. But, more importantly to Jeneba, is her great personality, her love for God and love for her family. Today Jeneba will share with us more about her experience as a professional athlete including her road to get there. She shares with us what she’s doing to prepare for the end of her sports career even though it isn’t here yet. In This Episode We Discuss: The two retirements of professional athletes and how to prepare for both. Why there is a lack of transparency around finances in the world of Track and Field and what needs to happen to change that for future athletes. Why she incorporated herself when she went pro and how that impacted her finances and the way she handled her money. The strategy that she has used since the start to assure she will have the money that she needs when she needs it.  Jeneba on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenebasylvia/ Jeneba on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtarmoh

Today’s guest is financial advisor Tashari Berry. She was the Founder and CEO of Tashari Financial Group before recently joining Wealthcare Financial Group, Inc.as the VP and Director of the Sports and Entertainment Division. This means she will be working with the finances of entrepreneurs, entertainers, and professional athletes. Tashari calls herself a teacher first and financial advisor second because she educates her clients throughout the process. Today Tashari will share with us more about how her passion and interest in finances and investments began. She also shares how hard she worked to make sure she could reach her goals in life. Her careful planning allowed her opportunities that she would not have had otherwise. In This Episode We Discuss: How a little perseverance goes a long way in getting college scholarships. Her experience living in China teaching English and why she thinks more people need to experience this in their lives. How to plan for the long-term finances by thinking about your 80-year-old self. What exactly a financial advisor does and why it’s worth it to pay a financial advisor or planner to help with your finances. Connect with Tashari: Instagram: instagram.com/sportswfg/ Facebook: facebook.com/SportsWFG/ Twitter: twitter.com/sportswfg Website: https://www.wcfingroup.com/

Today’s guest is Travis Hornsby. He is a former bonds trader that transitioned to being an entrepreneur and founder of studentloanplanner.com. He works with professionals with student loan debt to help them take control of their financial situation and make the best decisions when it comes to their debt repayment. Today Travis will share with us his personal story of his own finances. Not many people graduate college with no debt and $40,000 in savings and investments, but he did. He shares how his financial decisions allowed him to leave his job and take a year to travel the world and what his now father-in-law said to him that motivated him to a new level of success. Then, Travis unleashes on us a wealth of information about student loan debt. In This Episode We Discuss: The difference between federal loans vs private loans and how to know what the best situation is for you. The importance of saving for your future now instead of waiting until your student loans are taken care of. Why you need to look at your student loans as a tax on your income instead of debt. Why it’s important to find that balance between spending and savings. Find Travis on: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn

Today’s guest is Jeron Mastrud. He is a former NFL player but prefers now to be known as a recently engaged, soon-to-be loving husband, son of two teachers, brother, author of a best-selling book, and CEO of a health and wellness company based in Portland, Oregon. Today Jeron shares with us about the conservative upbringing that he had with finances and how that helped him throughout his career on and off the field. In This Episode We Discuss: What he did to prepare for life after sports before his NFL career even started. The whirlwind of his first year in the NFL and the wise financial advice that his father and agent gave him. The importance of asking questions when you don’t understand something in finances and life. The similarities between sports and entrepreneurship. Jeron on Instagram Jeron on Facebook Jeron on Twitter http://pacificneurotherapy.net/ https://dexapdx.com/home

Today’s guest is Samantha Arsenault Livingstone. She has won an Olympic Gold Medal and National Championship in swimming and is now a transformational speaker, high-performance coach, and recovering perfectionist. Today Samantha will share with us more about the impact that her early athletic success had on her, along with the lack of transparency around finances that she experienced along the way. She shares with us the events that changed everything for her and put her on the path to being an entrepreneur. In This Episode We Discuss: Why she passed up the chance to go pro after winning an Olympic gold medal at the age of 18. Why she doesn’t regret giving up some of her scholarship money. How being a perfectionist can negatively impact your finances. The traumatic event that changed the course of her life. Samantha on Instagram Samantha on Facebook SamanthaLivingstone.com

Today’s guest is Jasmine Henderson. She is a current two-time world record holder, former professional soccer player, author, empowerment speaker and mom. She has been a speaker on the TEDx stage, and has been interviewed live on Sports Center. When she unexpectedly became a single mom at 25, her focus changed. Her life experiences are what drive her to support people in living beyond limits and beyond labels. An advocate for women empowerment and equality, Jasmine coaches young soccer players, speaks around the world, and is writing her next book, "She Will Rise." Today Jasmine will share with us more about the role that mindset plays in our finances and how she was able to overcome the wrong mindsets that were holding her back. In This Episode We Discuss: What she left on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro that enabled her to move forward as a woman full of purpose in a new way. A few of the mindsets that we need to change about our finances, careers, and power. The importance of self-worth and how to make sure you aren’t getting it from the wrong places. How big inequality is in soccer and why the “Equal Play, Equal Pay” efforts are so important for women everywhere. JasmineEmpowers on Instagram JasmineEmpowers on Twitter JasmineEmpowers on Facebook

Today’s guest is Kayla McDowell. She is a professional banker by day and the co-founder of a production company that specializes in podcasts and YouTube channels by night. Well, not necessarily by night, but it is the side hustle she’s growing along with starting her own podcast. But, don’t let that fool you, she’s all about climbing the corporate ladder as well. Today Kayla will share with us more about her experience working her way through college for two degrees and why she may be hitting the books again within the next year. In This Episode We Discuss: What it’s really like to be broke and working your way through school. Why scholarships and grants are so important when getting your degree and other ways to reduce the cost of an education. The one tip she learned early on about how to handle her paychecks that she continues to use and recommend to others today. Kayla on Instagram So Kayla on YouTube  

Today’s guest is DJ Moultrie. While in college he found an area to specialize in that has helped him successfully launch a private equity firm. He has worked with investors to secure over 11 digital companies and managed over $1 million in capital for real estate buyers. He is currently raising capital for independent feature films. Today DJ will share with us more about the major shift that he had in his mindset that helped him decide that he will never go back to working for someone else. He also shares the lessons he has learned along the way and what he would share with his 14-year-old self. In This Episode We Discuss: Why he never trusts anyone that won’t talk about money. The book that helped transform his life. How important it is to always continue learning. The importance of discussing finances prior to tying the knot. For more information: Twitter: https://twitter.com/obadjm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obadjm/ Website: http://kogacquisitions.com/ Email: [email protected]

Today’s guest is Rianka, Certified Financial Planner and the Founder and President of Your Greatest Contribution, a financial planning firm that is dedicated to serving young entrepreneurs. She has earned many different recognitions for her work in the financial industry. Today Rianka will share with us her humble upbringing and how she always felt like there was something greater for her. She talks about how she became passionate about financial planning and how it helped her personally and professionally, plus loads of valuable information with us. In This Episode We Discuss: The difference between a CFP and financial advisor. Why education is the key to everything. Why you should always declare a major when you start school. The true meaning of financial freedom. For more information: Rianka on Twitter Rianka on Instagram RiankaDorsainvil.com Your Greatest Contribution

This week we sit down with former-NFL player Marques Ogden. After his career in professional sports, Marques experienced fast success and failure within the construction industry. After working his way up out of an unexpected bankruptcy, he now shares his story with others, holds leadership academies, and is in the process of expanding his personal brand to a larger platform. He has the ultimate comeback story. In this episode, we walk through Marques early days what it was like being the younger brother of an NFL star and how he found his own identity. Thought Marques ran into some difficulties, he is by no means the stereotypical athlete-gone-broke. He shares what it was like running a construction company and what brought it to its demise. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The whirlwind experience of being drafted in the NFL and how finances work for drafted players. How he kept his finances straight from before ever becoming an NFL player. How he went from owning a multimillion dollar company to bankruptcy in just 90 days. Why it’s so important to share your story.

Today’s guest is Georgia Rappleye. She is an entrepreneur and owner of Munsun Retreats in New York City. Previously she worked as an award-winning advertising executive before leaving the job to pursue her passion. She is risking it all to see her dreams come true. Today Georgia will share with us more about the environment she lived in as a child and the impact that has made on how she handles her finances as an adult. In This Episode We Discuss: The surprising takeaway Georgia had while living and teaching in Africa. The negative impact that 9/11 had on finances. Lifestyle Creep and why we spend more when we make more. The importance of understanding things don’t usually just fall into place nicely financially once you are done with college. Instagram: @munsunretreats Website: MunsunRetreats.com

Today’s guest is Deshaya Williams. She is a former Division 1 NCAA Champion and D1 regional coach of the year. She now owns her own wellness company where she specializes in birth coaching, postpartum support, fitness, and yoga coaching. Today Deshaya will share with us more about her journey to getting not one, but two master's degrees and her transition to being an entrepreneur. She also shares with us the importance of family and how this impacts her finances. In This Episode We Discuss: The benefit of college scholarships and how they are for more than just people looking to become professional athletes. Why you shouldn’t just take all the student loan funds that are offered to you. The importance of humbling yourself when needed to get your life and finances in order. Why you might need a side hustle and what you should consider when choosing one. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/inhisarms21/ https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/renewedyouthny/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/renewedyouthny/?ref=br_rs

Having a financial planner isn't just for the wealthy, but anyone who would like to have a better management system for their money. You may think it's counter-intuitive to pay to have someone manage your money, but one of the themes of our past episodes you may have noticed is the emotional hold it can have on someone. Having someone that is separated from that emotional attachment may be perfect for those wanting to not only control the money they have now but also plan for their future. This episode focuses a bit on my story, and also looks at the past episodes of Worth Listening, which I hope will inspire you to take control of your money. Resources mentioned: cfp.net xyplanningnetwork.com napfa.com worth-winning.com Lauryn on Twitter: @worth_winning Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Be a guest or suggest a guest for the show by emailing [email protected] Catch Up on Past Episodes of Worth Listening: Episode 1: Pro Players Beware - Ballin' is Expensive, with Clinton Portis Episode 2: Working at ESPN while pursuing Olympic Rowing, with Meghan O’Leary Episode 3: From Hoop Dreams to Making Dreams Come True, with Brandon Okpalobi Episode 4: Rock Climbing to Financial Independence, with Sasha Digiulian Episode 5: Effectively managing a fluctuating income while playing professional basketball, with Marcus Ginyard Episode 6: The Marines, Costly Mistakes, and Real Estate Investing, with Jason Miller Episode 7: Swim, bike or run toward your financial goals, with Haley Chura Episode 8: A Frugal Athlete and Major League Soccer, with Amobi Okugo Episode 9: Pursuing Your Passion and Having the Budget to Live the Life You Want, with Rocky Garza Episode 10: Entrepreneurship and Financial Empowerment at 17, with Miracle Olatunji Episode 11: Using Mindset to Earn Your Way to Wealth, with Brian Street Episode 12: Playing, Networking, and Planning for Financial Success After Sports, with Ruth Riley Episode 13: Hurdling the Obstacles Towards Financial Success, with Bershawn Jackson Episode 14: Finances, Football, Family, and Faith, with Kelly Jennings Episode 15: From the NFL to Shark Tank - Football, Finances, and Entrepreneurship, with Justin Forsett Episode 16: Pursuing Passion All the Way to the Bank, with Elton Anderson Episode 17: Education is the Key to Financial Success, with Andrew Post Episode 18: The Importance of Asking Questions and Having a Realistic Budget, with DJ Williams Episode 19: Living on a Shoestring Budget and Pursuing a Dream, with Annie Pokorny Episode 20: From Minor Leagues to Financial Planning, with Richard Giannotti

Today’s guest is Richard Giannotti. Richard played in the minor leagues for nine seasons before retiring from professional sports and transitioning to life as a financial advisor. He uses his personal experience and education to guide and educate professional athletes about their finances. Today Richard will share with us more about what athletes need to know as they manage the ups and downs of their career and finances. In This Episode We Discuss: What to look for when choosing a financial planner. The unexpected costs of being an athlete and the dangers of falling into a lifestyle that is more than your budget allows. The importance of planning now so you can live the life you want later. The fact that a million dollars is never really a million dollars. Follow Richard on Instagram | Twitter

Today’s guest is former professional cross-country skier, Annie Pokorny. She represented the U.S. at three U23 World Championships, won multiple top-10 National Titles, and was an NCAA All American. While her athletic career is over she has successfully transitioned to life after sports and now works in marketing, maintains a lifestyle blog, and runs a side copywriting business. Today Annie will share with us more about what it was like living a zero-sum lifestyle while pursuing a career as a professional cross-country skier. In This Episode We Discuss: What it was like to live off of grant money while keeping living expenses low in order to make ends meet. What it was like to balance college and a professional sport. How the skills she learned on the road helped her transition to life after sports. Why it’s worth it to her to live in an area with a high cost of living so she can enjoy where she is and the sacrifices she has made because of it. annieataltitude.com

Today’s guest is DJ Williams, University of Miami Hall of Fame linebacker and former NFL linebacker turned entrepreneur. DJ now owns two Pincho Factory restaurants in Miami, has his own clothing line called Dyme Lyfe, and is in the process of starting a new business to help professional athletes build their own brands. Today DJ will share with us a wealth of information he has learned throughout his journey growing up, playing in the NFL, and transitioning to life after sports. In This Episode We Discuss: Why asking questions is the key to success What type of people you should work on surrounding yourself with. The importance of getting real about your budget and using it to plan for your future. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dymelyfe/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DYMELYFE/ Twitter https://twitter.com/dyme_lyfe www.dymelyfe.com

Today’s guest is Andrew Post, Senior Vice President of Invo HealthCare. Andrew began his career as an economics teacher but now spends his time working to help impact children from tough home situations so they avoid going down the wrong paths and experiencing unfortunate situations in the future. Today Andrew will share with us more about his personal experience with finances and what he has learned along the way that others can benefit from. In This Episode We Discuss: Finances in college and what to watch out for. The importance of making wise financial decisions in the present to be prepared for the future and retirement. The financial surprises that come along as an adult like how hard it is to save and the unexpected expenses that pop up.

Today’s guest is Elton Anderson, successful photographer and well-recognized brand. Elton is also the founder of Creators of Colors, a platform that focuses on people of color within the creative industry. Today Elton will share with us more about how he went from being “successful” in the eyes of the world in his twenties with a good paying job, owning his own house, and plenty of assets to being broke at thirty. This is when he decided to restart and really pursue his passions which has led him down an exciting path. In This Episode We Discuss: The difference between being self-employed and owning a business. Why it’s important to set long-term financial goals. Elton’s love for travel and his top 3 tips for traveling on a budget. The importance of paying yourself first. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatorsofcolor/ https://www.instagram.com/eltonandersonjr/ https://www.instagram.com/travelnoire/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/travelnoire/ https://www.facebook.com/The-Creators-of-Color-187942721801210/ Twitter https://www.eltonanderson.com http://www.thecreatorsofcolor.com

Today’s guest is Justin Forsett, former NFL running back and business owner. Justin played 9 seasons in the NFL for 7 different teams. The constant changing of teams helped him always keep his eye on what his next move would be when his NFL career was over. He used his NFL retirement announcement to help launch a business he started with a few of his former college teammates —Shower Pill. Today Justin will share with us more about what it was like to bounce from one team to the next and the cost that was involved with the transitions. He shares how his humble beginnings helped him stay conservative with this money throughout his career.In This Episode We Discuss: What Justin thinks is the hardest thing about being an entrepreneur What his experience was like going on Shark Tank and the advice that he has for others looking to do the same The advice his financial advisor gave him as he moved from one team to the next. How important giving back is to Justin and his business. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jforsett/ https://www.instagram.com/showerpill/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JustinForsett/ https://www.facebook.com/ShowerPill/ Twitter https://twitter.com/JForsett https://twitter.com/ShowerPill http://www.jforsett.com https://www.showerpill.com/  

Today’s guest is Kelly Jennings, former NFL player turned Financial Planner. Kelly spent six years with the NFL before leaving the league to pursue his passion for people. He has combined his passion together with his financial and counseling degrees to work as a financial planner. Today Kelly will share with us more about football, finances, family and faith and the role each has played in his life. In This Episode We Discuss: How finances work once you are drafted into the NFL. He goes into details about who pays for what and how he learned to handle his finances. How Kelly learned that giving people close to him money was not actually helping them in the long run. The importance of working with a financial planner to get and keep your finances straight.

Professional track athlete, Bershawn Jackson has succeeded on the track at all levels from high school to the Olympics. After years of careless spending, Bershawn is on the right track and shares the importance of financial planning and why athletes need to think about life after sports. Today Bershawn will share with us more about the financial lessons he has learned throughout his years in the sports. In This Episode We Discuss: The biggest mistake he made that cost him half a million dollars. How work ethic is the key to success. The difference that working with financial experts can make on your life.

Today’s guest is Ruth Riley. Ruth has a long list of accomplishments including NCAA and WNBA Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist, former General Manager of San Antonio Stars, and is currently working as the NBA Academy Global Technical Director for Women’s Programs. Today Ruth will share with us more about her journey from playing college basketball to reaching the WNBA. She talks about how the pay and culture of the WNBA differ from the NBA and the impact that it has on the players. She also shares how she used her time in the WNBA planning for life after playing the game professionally. The lessons that she has learned along the way are ones that we can all apply to our lives and finances. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How planning out your giving for the year can help you say “no” without feeling guilty. The importance of educating yourself on finances in your downtime. For Ruth, this was while playing overseas, but we all have downtime that we can use to gain knowledge to help us in our finances. The importance of networking and building connections in the present to help your future career goals and financial situation.

Today’s guest is Brian Street. He is an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and currently pursuing his Ph.D. in social services. Brian is passionate about the importance of pursuing what you love instead of chasing a dollar. Today Brian will share with us more about how he overcame his financial struggles and discovered his true passion. In This Episode We Discuss: Why you need to establish a plan to achieve your personal and financial dreams. Why it’s important to build a network as you work towards your goals. The importance of focusing on what you are passionate about and using your skills in what you do.

Today’s guest is high school student and entrepreneur Miracle Olatunji. Miracle is currently an ambassador for The Diamond Challenge, founder of two companies, and well on her way to a future of financial freedom and success. In her money memoir, she shares her passion for finances, which started at the age of 7 years old. Today Miracle shares with us how participation in the Diamond Challenge has impacted her life and what it’s like to balance school and business at such a young age. She shares with us the importance of educating yourself in the financial world, as well as the lessons she has been learning in investing. She is wise beyond her years and has great advice to share.

Today’s guest is Rocky Garza. Rocky is an entrepreneur, speaker, challenger, and people expert. He also has a service called Personal Identity Mapping that helps people discover how and why they do the things they do. Today Rocky is coming on the show to give us a little insight into how and why he does the things he does. We discuss the things that Rocky’s grandparents did to help him reach the point that he is at right now. How he transitioned to being a homeowner at the age of 24 and his use of roommates to offset the cost of his mortgage. We also discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship and how he and his wife decided to take the leap. Rocky also gives us insight into how he and his wife handle their finances together and why budgeting became important to them for their present and future.

Like many people, Amobi Okugo wanted to be a professional soccer player from a young age. In high school, he realized that his dream might become reality. He was the 6th draft pick in the MLS after his freshmen year in college. He has had a successful athletic career while obtaining his college degree and is getting ready to enter his 9th season. Today he shares with us how he handled the influx of money when we became a professional athlete and why it’s so important for team members and peers to be open about their finances. Amobi believes in accumulating financial knowledge in order to make wise decisions for your financial future.

Haley Chura attended the University of Georgia as a swimmer before transitioning to the life of an accountant at a successful firm. After taking a break from sports she received a challenge from her boss that set her on the path that led to becoming a professional triathlete. It’s a step that she might not have taken if she hadn’t been preparing financially for years. Today we discuss Haley’s journey to become the Ironman Champion last year, after one of the roughest times in her life. She shares the ups and downs of the sport and the impact it has on her finances as well as the importance of always being prepared.

Jason Miller dreamt of becoming a professional football player when in school. His college athletic dreams were put on hold due to injury and financial difficulties. Instead of allowing this to hold him back in life he has continued to adapt his plan to find success. While a career in the NFL wasn’t in the plans, Jason is now a former Marine and entrepreneur that has discovered how to put his money to work for him and enjoys mentoring the high school athletes on the football team that he coaches for. Today we discuss what motivated Jason to join the military and the financial lessons that he learned along the way. We also find out how a dramatic setback in life actually motivated Jason to take the steps necessary to become a successful entrepreneur. For more information, visit the show notes at http://www.worth-listening.com  

Marcus Ginyard played college basketball at UNC Chapel Hill before being selected to travel the world playing basketball.   Marcus shares with us the lesson learned when his emergency fund was spent on something other than an emergency. Finally we talk about managing your income when it is fluctuating and the importance of having money discussions. Other things You’ll Learn in This Episode: What a Roth IRA is Why is important to file and pay your taxes The importance of planning ahead when you have fluctuating income For more money memoirs like this, visit http://www.worth-winning.com/win/podcast/108-ep005

Professional rock climber, Sasha DiGiulian, has been competing since she was 12 years old. Sasha turned professional before she even entered college! Today Sasha will share with us more about her life as a professional rock climber and how she balanced doing both throughout college. She will also share how she managed her own contracts on her own from a young age and what she learned about building the right team of professionals around her, like a financial advisor and manager. In This Episode We Discuss: What to look for when building a team, including a financial planner What the life and schedule of a professional rock climber looks like The importance of learning your worth and not settling for what you don’t agree with. For more information, visit the show notes at http://www.worth-listening.com

Brandon Okpalobi is Founder and CEO of DIBIA Athletic Development and DIBIA Dream, Inc, Today we discuss how Brandon made $2 allowance in high school, then how he walked on the basketball at a Division 1 college school and earned a scholarship. Finally we talk about how you don’t have to be playing sports to be involved in sports. Brandon is still involved with basketball by running both a non profit organization and a for profit business.

2016 Olympian Meghan O’leary played all sort of sports growing up and even played volleyball and softball in college. Yet, she didn’t find rowing until after college. Yes, she started rowing AFTER college, became an Olympian and recently made history by earning silver medalist in the 2017 world championships.   Today we discuss her parent’s impact on her money habits, and being intentional about beefing up your resume so you can go after your dream job. We also discuss how money works in rowing and why it is necessary to have a job while training and competing. At the height of her sports career she is still working but now to build her equity in a startup. For more information, visit the show notes at http://worth-listening.com

We kick the show off with one of the best NFL running backs to ever play the game, Clinton Portis. You have probably heard his name in the news frequently for being great football player or for fun personalities that kept the sport fans entertained while playing for the Washington Redskins. More recently the news has been surrounding the trouble he has had with money. Reporters tell the story from their point of view but I believe no one is more qualified to tell your story than than you. The purpose of this show is to encourage the world to start having the the right conversations about money. The kind that allow others to learn from our mistakes. The kind that is open, honest and inspires education thru conversation. In this episode Clinton Speaks candidly, about the circumstances that lead to some of the mistakes he made. He shares with us words of caution and words of wisdom. One of the shows motto’s is “You don't have to get it all right, to be allright.” You will see despite his mistakes Clinton is doing just fine. For more information, visit: http://www.worth-listening.com

Welcome to the Worth Listening Podcast. I started my company, Worth Winning, because young professionals and athletes need something different from what the financial industry has offered in the past. We want to make good money decisions we just need someone we can relate to who knows finances. I want to fill that gap. We are in the middle of making huge life decisions: pursuing advanced degrees, buying homes, getting married, having kids, and switching jobs. This is when we need financial planning the most! A secure future starts with a healthy foundation. As athletes, we put everything we’ve got into our sport but what happens when competing is no longer an option? As we transition to life after sport we create new goals and dreams. I want to help you prepare a plan to find and fund the dreams that are truly worth winning. — Lauryn Williams, MBA Find more about what Worth Winning is all about at http://www.worth-listening.com