Real Money, Real Experts

Do It Scared: Making Financial Guidance More Accessible for Everyone with Cynthia Hudson

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:00:00 -0400

What if the best financial advice starts by asking one simple question: Why?

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with newly accredited AFC® Cynthia Hudson. Cynthia shares how her unconventional journey—from manufacturing floors to financial counseling—shaped her belief that lasting financial change happens when we address root causes instead of surface-level symptoms.

Cynthia explores how disability, trauma, and lived experiences influence financial decision-making, and why creating accessible financial guidance doesn't just benefit people with disabilities—it creates better outcomes for everyone. Through powerful personal stories, she discusses navigating public benefit systems, overcoming self-doubt, and learning that curiosity and compassion are just as important as financial expertise.

Whether you're a financial professional, educator, or coach, you'll walk away with practical strategies for meeting clients where they are, asking better questions, and building more inclusive financial conversations.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why accessibility benefits every client—not just those with disabilities
How to uncover the root causes behind financial challenges
The role trauma and lived experiences play in financial decision-making
Common pitfalls when advising clients receiving public benefits
How curiosity can strengthen trust and improve client outcomes
Why Cynthia's personal motto is simple: Do it scared.

Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome Cynthia Hudson, AFC®

02:00 From banking and manufacturing to financial counseling

05:00 Why solving the root cause matters more than treating financial symptoms

09:00 Disability, accessibility, and creating better financial outcomes

12:00 When good financial advice can unintentionally cause harm

13:00 Cynthia's personal experience navigating poverty and healthcare benefits

16:00 Practical ways financial professionals can make their services more accessible

19:00 Earning the AFC® without a traditional college path

22:00 Stepping outside your comfort zone and learning to "do it scared"

24:00 Bringing financial education into the workplace

27:00 Cynthia's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Cynthia on Linkedin!

Read about "The Financial Health of People With Disabilities Key Obstacles and Opportunities" from NDI!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Wealth Within: How Self-Worth Shapes Net Worth with Justin Chastain, AFC®️(Re-Run)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Editor's note: Real Money, Real Experts is on a mid-summer break. Please enjoy this episode re-run. We will be back with new episodes in July!

What does it mean to build true wealth? In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with financial planner Justin Chastain, AFC®️ to explore the connection between self-worth and financial success, the emotional impact of money, and the power of authenticity in both personal and professional growth.

Justin shares his personal experiences with grief and how it has shaped his financial philosophy, explaining why wealth is about more than just numbers—it’s about how money influences your life and the lives of those you care about. He also breaks down why patience is essential in building financial security and how leaning into your uniqueness can set you apart in any industry.

Whether you're a business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone looking to improve your financial mindset, this episode is filled with powerful insights on achieving financial freedom and peace of mind. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on redefining wealth, investing in yourself, and staying true to who you are.

Show Notes:

01:24 Justin's journey into the financial planning space

04:38 The AFC is they key to lifelong learning

07:33 How creating buckets of value influence our financial decisions

14:21 Why leaning into your uniqueness is your superpower

22:22 The secret behind building wealth for a business

27:41 What to look for in mentors & coaches

32:24 Justin's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Justin on Linkedin!

Connect with Justin on Instagram!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Money Roots and Financial Wellness: Understanding the Stories Behind Our Financial Decisions with Jack Howard

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Brandy Baxter sit down with Jack Howard, Head of Money Wellness at Ally, to discuss the evolving landscape of financial wellness and the critical role that mindset, values, and personal experiences play in shaping financial behaviors.

Drawing from both her personal and professional journey, Jack shares how her passion for financial education led her to develop innovative approaches that go beyond traditional financial literacy. The conversation explores the concept of "money roots"—the beliefs, experiences, and narratives that influence our financial decisions—as well as the impact of financial trauma, scarcity, and anxiety on long-term financial well-being.

Listeners will gain insight into how understanding their money story, aligning financial decisions with personal values, and approaching money with greater self-awareness can lead to healthier financial habits and a more fulfilling relationship with money. The episode also examines how financial institutions and financial professionals are increasingly embracing a more human-centered approach to financial education and counseling.

Show Notes:

02:27 Jack Howard's personal finance journey: From student debt to money wellness leadership

05:11 A day in the life of Ally's Head of Money Wellness

06:40 Why financial success is about more than financial skills

08:54 Overview of Ally's Money Roots program

10:56 Understanding money mindset, money stories, and personal values

12:33 How a trauma-informed approach changes financial conversations

14:14 Addressing shame, judgment, and fear around money

15:07 Common money mindset challenges: scarcity, anxiety, and avoidance

18:13 Breaking down barriers: How financial professionals can build trust

19:06 The power of vulnerability in financial education and counseling

20:22 The future of financial wellness and human-centered banking

21:51 Jack's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Jack on Instagram!

Connect with Ally Bank on Instagram!

Connect with Ally Bank on X!

Connect with Ally Bank on Linkedin!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Advocacy Made Accessible: Using Your Voice for Financial Change with Lisa Whitley

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Dr. Brandy Baxter and Rachael DeLeon sit down with Lisa Whitley, accredited financial counselor, and founder of MoneyByLisa LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor domiciled in the District of Columbia.

Lisa shares her unique journey as a Foreign Service Officer with the United States Agency for International Development into financial counseling and advocacy work. Together, they explore how financial professionals can use their firsthand client experiences to influence policy, support financial wellness initiatives, and create meaningful change at the local, state, and federal levels.

From affordability challenges and utility assistance programs to consumer protection and community advocacy, this conversation breaks down how advocacy doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — and why even one small step can make a lasting impact.

Whether you’re passionate about policy or simply looking for ways to better support your clients, this episode is a reminder that your voice matters.

Show Notes:

00:00 – Welcome back to Real Money, Real Experts

00:38 – Introducing guest Lisa Kirchenbauer

01:57 – Lisa’s journey into government relations and advocacy

03:15 – From Wall Street and United States Agency for International Development to financial counseling

04:40 – Why Lisa started her own firm, Money by Lisa

05:49 – What advocacy looks like in financial wellness

06:53 – Why advocacy can feel overwhelming — and how to simplify it

08:28 – Starting local: state and community-level advocacy

08:48 – The Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education Advocacy Toolkit and practical resources

10:46 – Learning from other states and sharing solutions

11:35 – Why AFCs are subject matter experts in financial wellness

13:44 – Key policy issues impacting clients right now

16:08 – Practical first steps for getting involved in advocacy

17:48 – A real-world example of community advocacy creating policy change

19:49 – Lisa’s 2 Cents

20:59 – How the Government Relations Task Force supports the AFCPE community

Show Note Links:

Check out our Government Relations Advocacy Toolkit!

Follow MoneyByLisa on Facebook!

Connect with Lisa on Linkedin!

Learn more about MoneyByLisa!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Beyond the Numbers: The Emotional Side of Financial Planning with Dr. Sonya Lutter

Tue, 12 May 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, Rachael and Brandy sit down with Dr. Sonya Lutter to explore the powerful connection between psychology, relationships, and financial decision-making. From financial stress and emotional spending to couples’ communication and the growing field of financial therapy, this conversation dives into the human side of money.

Dr. Lutter shares how stress impacts our ability to make financial decisions, why money arguments carry so much emotional weight in relationships, and how financial professionals can better support clients through observation, communication, and empathy. The discussion also explores the differences between financial psychology, financial counseling, and financial therapy — and why understanding those distinctions matters in practice.

Whether you’re a financial professional or simply curious about the emotional side of money, this episode offers valuable insights into how our thoughts, behaviors, and relationships shape financial wellness.

Show Notes:

00:31 Meet Dr. Sonya Lutter

02:05 How Dr. Lutter Combined Psychology & Financial Planning

04:57 Financial Psychology vs. Financial Therapy Explained

10:30 Where Financial Professionals Draw the Line with Clients

11:12 The Importance of Family Systems & Financial Conversations

12:08 Katrina’s Story: Grief, Money & Emotional Decision-Making

16:18 How Financial Stress Impacts Decision-Making

17:14 Fight-or-Flight Responses During Money Conversations

19:28 Why Stressed Clients Struggle to Retain Financial Information

20:43 How Financial Professionals Can Better Support Stressed Clients

23:29 Why Money Carries Emotional Weight in Relationships

24:15 Why Couples Argue About Money More Than Anything Else

26:21 The Importance of Financial Communication in Marriage

27:52 Research on Joint Bank Accounts & Relationship Satisfaction

30:23 Cohabitation, Shared Finances & Wealth Building

31:44 Dr. Lutter’s “Two Cents” Advice for Couples & Financial Planning

34:02 Where to Connect with Dr. Sonya Lutter

34:12 Key Takeaways from the Conversation

36:45 Closing Thoughts & Outro

Show Note Links:

Become an ASFP

Discover financial therapy certificate programs at Texas Tech

Meet Dr. Sonya Lutter

Connect with Dr. Sonya Lutter

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Wearing the Investor Hat: Breaking the Biggest Money Myth with Jessica Perrone

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we welcome Jessica Perrone, Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®) and founder of HerFinIQ, to discuss how financial professionals can help clients confidently navigate the world of investing.

With over 16 years of experience on Wall Street, Jessica shares her unconventional journey into finance and how it shaped her mission to make investing more accessible—particularly for women and underserved communities. She emphasizes the importance of education over advice, and how simplifying complex financial concepts can empower clients to take action.

Jessica introduces practical frameworks, including her “financial ducks” approach—ensuring budgeting, saving, emergency funds, credit, and debt management are addressed before investing—and her “cereal box” analogy to help clients better understand investment accounts and assets.

Throughout the conversation, we explore:

Common misconceptions about investing, including the belief that you need significant capital to get started
The importance of helping clients develop an “investor identity”
How AFC® professionals can provide investment education without crossing into advice
Strategies for explaining risk and investment options in an approachable way
The role of confidence and behavior in financial decision-making

Jessica also highlights the growing need for accessible, accurate financial education in a landscape where misinformation is common.

This episode reinforces the critical role AFC® professionals play in bridging knowledge gaps, building client confidence, and supporting informed financial decision-making.

Show Notes:

01:10 Meet Jessica Perrone & HerFinIQ

03:40 Key money lessons: frugality, budgeting, resourcefulness & compassion

04:00 Breaking into Wall Street without a finance background

07:00 Why Jessica created HerFinIQ

10:30 Identity as an investor & why it matters

14:30 Why financial basics must come before investing (“financial ducks”)

16:15 Common misconceptions about investing

18:30 Barriers to entry & access to financial advisors

23:30 Building client confidence & asking the right questions

24:20 The role of confidence in financial decision-making

27:30 Understanding risk: stocks, ETFs & diversification

29:45 Jessica’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

https://www.herfiniq.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicak/

https://www.facebook.com/HerFinIQ/

https://www.instagram.com/herfiniq

https://www.youtube.com/@herfiniq

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Beyond the Legal Battle: Navigating the Financial, Emotional, and Power Dynamics of Divorce with Gabriella Martinelli

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Divorce isn’t just a legal process—it’s a high-stakes financial restructuring, often driven by emotion. In this powerful episode, Gabriella Martinelli, founder of Ever After Wealth, breaks down what really happens when money, identity, and life as you know it are all on the line.

With over two decades of experience across both legal and financial spaces, Gabriella shares why traditional approaches fall short—and how financial professionals can better support clients during one of the most emotionally charged times in their lives.

From uncovering the real reason behind financial decisions (hint: it’s not always about the numbers) to understanding how fear, urgency, and loss of control shape outcomes, this conversation challenges everything you think you know about divorce planning.

You’ll walk away with a new perspective on:

Why divorce is more than a legal event—it’s a complete financial reset
How emotions directly impact financial decision-making
The power clients actually have (even when they feel powerless)
Why asking better questions can change everything

Whether you’re a financial professional or someone navigating a major life transition, this episode is your reminder: the numbers matter—but the why behind them matters even more.

Show Notes:

00:00 –Meet Gabriella Martinelli

02:30 – From legal career to divorce financial strategist

06:15 – Why she left wealth management to remain conflict-free

10:20 – Divorce as a “financial restructuring” (not just legal)

14:45 – The role of emotions in financial decision-making

19:30 – Advice for financial professionals working with divorce clients

24:10 – The “house story” & uncovering the real emotional driver

32:00 – How to ask better questions and reduce client overwhelm

36:45 – Navigating pressure, deadlines, and court timelines

43:20 – Where clients actually have power in the process

49:10 – Common emotional traps: “I want it all” vs. “I want nothing”

53:40 – Final takeaways for financial professionals

56:00 – How to connect with Gabriella + closing reflections

Show Note Links:

Listen to the Divorce and Money Podcast!

Look into the Ever After Blog!

Connect with Ever After on Instagram!

Connect with Divorce and Money on Instagram!

Connect with Gabriella on Linkedin!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Innovating Financial Education: The Power of Financial Field Trips with Whitney Ramirez

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter are joined by Whitney Ramirez, founder of Diapers to Deposits and Financial Field Trips, to discuss innovative approaches to financial education that move beyond traditional instruction.

Whitney shares how her experiential learning model—“financial field trips”—helps learners apply financial concepts in real-world settings, from visiting banks and apartment complexes to exploring car dealerships. By meeting individuals where they are and building on their existing knowledge, her approach fosters deeper understanding, confidence, and long-term behavior change.

We explore key concepts including the financial literacy vortex, the importance of application-based learning, and how educators, counselors, and financial professionals can better engage both youth and adult learners.

This conversation offers practical insights for anyone looking to make financial education more impactful, relevant, and sustainable.

Show Notes:

03:19 The Story Behind the LED Backpack & Standing Out

04:20 How Financial Field Trips Began

05:28 The FAST Framework Explained

07:01 Applying Financial Education in Real Life

11:13 How Behavior Change Happens

13:24 Why Financial Field Trips Work

15:25 Applying These Strategies with Adult Clients

18:03 Teaching Through Storytelling: The “Loan Shark” Lesson

20:23 Planting Seeds Early in Financial Education

21:08 Whitney’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Learn more about D2D Youth Money Hub!

Connect with Whitney!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Tax-Smart Ways to Donate to Charities with Dr. Barbara O’Neill

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Hosts Dr. Brandy Baxter and Rachael DeLeon welcome longtime AFCPE member Dr. Barbara O’Neill to discuss changes in financial planning over 40 years, including increased automation and the uncertain readiness of AI, alongside AFCPE’s growing membership diversity.

O’Neill defines tax-smart charitable giving as aligning donations with income-tax benefits and highlights additional psychological benefits of philanthropy.

She shares strategies including qualified charitable distributions from traditional IRAs, bunching deductions to exceed the standard deduction, donor-advised funds, and new 2026 charitable deductions for non-itemizers, while noting shifting tax rules for itemizers.

The conversation also covers older adults’ needs—lower risk, lower taxes, simplicity, reliable income, and “fun money”—popular later-life class topics, solopreneur advice, and the importance of making financial education simple and actionable.

Show Notes:

00:00 Meet our guest, Barbara O'Neill

02:16 How Finance Has Changed

03:08 AI and the Human Touch

05:48 Tax Smart Giving Basics

14:41 Keeping Up With Tax Law

15:37 Giving Tips for Young Adults

17:57 Older Adults Money Needs

27:10 Late Life Entrepreneurship

33:01 Barbara's Two Cents

Show Note Links:

Check out MoneyTalk!

Connect with MoneyTalk on Twitter!

Explore the MoneyTalk blog!

Grab your copy of Barbara's book!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Fixing More Than the Numbers: Counseling Strategies When Budgets Don't Do the Trick with Jayne Larson and Alicia Lawrence

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Dr. Brandy Baxter sits down with financial counselors Alicia Lawrence and Jayne Larson to explore why real financial change goes beyond the numbers.

They discuss the power of motivational interviewing, empathy, and curiosity in helping clients uncover the “why” behind their money habits. From overcoming the fear of opening bills to negotiating more than 20 credit card accounts, this conversation highlights how mindset shifts—not just budgets—drive lasting progress.

For financial professionals ready to focus less on spreadsheets and more on behavior, this episode offers practical insight into creating meaningful, sustainable change.

Show Notes:

02:00 – Meet the guests: Alicia Lawrence & Jayne Larson

03:00 – Shifting from “what to do” to understanding the why behind money behaviors

05:00 – Motivational interviewing and the stages of change

08:00 – Emotional triggers, stress spending, and building client trust

09:30 – Measuring progress beyond the numbers (confidence, opening mail, mindset shifts)

11:00 – Client story: From avoiding bills to negotiating 20+ credit cards

14:00 – What sparked the mindset shift?

15:20 – Advice for financial professionals: leading with curiosity and empathy

19:00 – Reflection questions that spark behavior change

20:50 – Two Cents segment: Discomfort, flexibility, and sustainable planning

22:30 – How to connect + episode wrap-up

Show Note Links:

Learn more here!

Learn more about the wages & inflation here!

Learn more about the US Inflation Rates!

Learn more about Jayne & Alicia's work here!

Check out this resource!

Connect with Alicia!

Connect with Your Money Line on Instagram!

Connect with Your Money Line on Linkedin!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Rewired: 7 Steps to Help Clients Transform Their Relationship with Money with Ryan Law AFC®, CFP®

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we welcome back fan favorite Ryan Law, award-winning educator, author, and financial counselor, to share something a little different: his groundbreaking ReWired Framework.

Ryan walks us through his seven-step process for identifying and transforming limiting beliefs—the inner work that often determines whether we achieve lasting success. From recognizing the beliefs that hold us back to experimenting with small, actionable steps, Ryan shows how rewiring our mindset can create real, sustainable change—not just in finances, but in all areas of life.

Whether you’re a financial professional helping clients reach their goals or someone striving to make positive changes in your own life, this episode provides practical insights and strategies to start rewiring your brain for success.

Show Notes:

02:09 Introduction to the ReWired Framework

04:59 Why knowledge and motivation alone aren’t enough for lasting chang

08:20 How beliefs drive behavior and why focusing on inner work is key

10:51 Step-by-step breakdown of the ReWired Framework (R–E–W–I–R–E–D)

18:25 The power of small, consistent steps to reinforce new beliefs

21:09 Documenting and reflecting for sustainable growth

24:03 How rewiring your brain applies to clients and your own life

25:26 Ryan’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Ryan on Linkedin!

Learn more about Sarah Newcomb!

Check out Erika Wasserman!

Learn more about Money Habitudes!

Check out Klontz Money Script Inventory (KMSI)!

Read Atomic Habits!

Read Tiny Habits!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Yours, Mine, and Ours: Navigating Money in Blended Families with Mikel Van Cleve, MBA, CFP®, FBS®, CEBS

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Money conversations are emotional for any family—but in blended families, they often come with added layers of loss, loyalty, and complexity.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Dr. Brandy Baxter and Rachael DeLeon are joined by Mikel Van Cleve, CFP®, PhD candidate at Texas Tech University and U.S. Coast Guard veteran, to unpack the unique financial and emotional dynamics of blended families.

Drawing from both research and lived experience—what Michael calls “me-search”—the conversation explores why traditional financial advice doesn’t always work for blended families, common emotional landmines around money, and how assumptions about “joint finances” can unintentionally create conflict. Mikel shares practical tools financial professionals can use, including the three-bucket money approach, genograms, money dates, and role-playing exercises, to foster communication, transparency, and trust.

Whether you’re a financial practitioner working with blended families or someone navigating one yourself, this episode offers actionable insights, empathy-driven strategies, and a powerful reminder: blended families aren’t broken or abnormal—they’re simply different, and they deserve planning approaches that reflect that reality.

Show Notes:

01:26 – Meet Mikel Van Cleve, CFP®

03:05 – How Mikel’s lived experience shaped his research

05:18 – Why blended families are often overlooked in financial planning

07:52 – Emotional and financial landmines blended families face

11:48 – Rethinking joint finances in blended families

13:02 – The three-bucket money approach explained

18:44 – Why practitioner bias matters when working with blended families

23:36 – Tools for navigating emotionally charged money conversations

26:08 – Mikel’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Learn more about Mikel's work

Read Mikel's work!

Connect with Mikel!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Will AI Take My Job? with Dr. Jessica Limbrick

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Is artificial intelligence here to help financial professionals—or replace them?

In this special episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Dr. Brandy Baxter and Rachael DeLeon kick off the new season with their very first video podcast recording and welcome back fan-favorite guest Dr. Jessica Limbrick, professor, researcher, AFCPE Board Member, and 2026 Treasurer.

Fresh off her highly rated AFCPE Symposium session, “Will AI Take My Job?”, Dr. Limbrick joins the show to unpack what AI really means for financial counselors, coaches, planners, and educators. Together, they explore how AI can be used as a powerful assistant—from budgeting and lesson planning to brainstorming client strategies—while also discussing its limitations, risks, and ethical considerations.

This episode dives into:

How financial professionals can use AI without over-relying on it
Why fact-checking and asking better questions matters more than ever
Equity, bias, and access concerns in AI-driven financial advice
Environmental and ethical implications of emerging technologies
Whether AI will actually replace financial counselors—or simply reshape the profession

Whether you’re AI-curious, AI-cautious, or already experimenting with new tools, this conversation offers a grounded, human-centered perspective on how technology and financial counseling can—and should—coexist.

Now available on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.

Show Notes:

01:30 – Introducing Dr. Jessica Limbrick

03:00 – How Jessica Got Interested in AI

06:00 – Using AI as an Assistant, Not an Authority

09:30 – AI in Financial Counseling: Opportunities & Risks

13:30 – Ethical Considerations & Bias in AI

17:30 – The Future of the Financial Profession

20:45 – Will AI Take My Job?

22:45 – Jessica's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Jessica on Instagram!

Connect with Jessica on Linkedin!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Two Cents Round-up of 2025: Lessons in Wealth, Trust, and Financial Growth

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500

2025 was full of insightful conversations, and in this special episode, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter revisit some of the most impactful moments from the year. From defining true wealth to building trust with clients, our guests share nuggets of wisdom that inspire both financial professionals and everyday money managers alike.

Join us as we highlight key takeaways from Justin Chastain, John Ackerman, Ericka Young, Joanne Danganan, and Colleen Salchow. You'll hear about building self-worth, the power of journaling, military family money lessons, and the importance of compound interest.

This is a celebration of learning, growth, and actionable advice to help you and your clients thrive in 2026.

Tune in to leave with your own “two cents” for the year ahead!

Shownotes:

00:04 Welcome to our 2025 round up

01:09 Justin Chastain: Wealth vs. Brand

04:57 Jon Ackerman: Helping the Underserved

08:31 Ericka Young: Financial Coaching & Building Trust

11:42 Joanne Danganan: Journaling & Money Conversations

15:47Colleen Salchow: Military Family Money Lessons

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Where Finance Meets Humanity: Ann Lentell on Coaching, Community & Change

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ann Lentell, CFA, AFC®️, CFP®️ — a financial professional whose career bridges equity research, nonprofit leadership, and deeply human financial coaching.

Ann shares how a childhood curiosity about markets led to a lifelong passion for personal finance, and how a transformative college class sparked her commitment to helping families build savings and stability.

We dive into her decade at Compass Working Capital, where she scaled financial coaching programs for families in federally subsidized housing, and explore how culturally competent, client-centered coaching can shift lives.

Ann also reflects on her journey to the AFC®️, what drew her to AFCPE’s mission, and how raising the bar for financial education brings greater access and equity to communities nationwide. Plus, she gives us a look ahead at her vision as AFCPE’s incoming Board President.

This episode is filled with heart, strategy, and a powerful reminder that every financial story deserves dignity and high-quality guidance.

Show Notes:

03:31 – Get to know AFCPE's 2026 Board President, Ann Lentell

07:26 – What drew Ann to AFCPE

12:39 – Brandy reflects on Ann’s impact on the AFCPE board

12:58 – How nonprofits can raise financial education standards

13:37 – The role of credentials and combating misinformation online

17:11 – Why the AFC pathway matters

17:58 – Ann's 2 Cents

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

We Were Made for This Moment: Real Stories, Real Impact

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Join hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter live from the AFCPE Symposium for a special episode capturing the energy, insights, and inspiration of this year’s event.

In this unique format, you’ll hear directly from attendees—from financial coaches to educators to organizational leaders—as they share what the Symposium means to them, the moments that moved them, and the lessons they’re taking home.

You’ll hear powerful “made for this moment” reflections from:

Kelsea Dickey (Financial Coach Academy)
Christine Richardson (Financial Planning Association)
Debra Barker (Magellan Federal)
Sean Brigham (Texas Tech University)
Kimberly Rand (Project Equity)
Young Mao and Tanya Brinston (University of Minnesota)

Whether you attended in person, joined virtually, or are listening from afar, this episode captures the heart of the AFCPE community—connection, learning, and purpose.

Show Notes:

00:42 Why We Were Made For This Moment

02:05 Rachael’s Symposium Highlights

03:10 Brandy’s Symposium Highlights

08:10 Interview: Kelsea Dickey

11:20 Interview: Christine Richardson

13:30 Interview: Debra Barker

18:00 Interview: Sean Brigham

20:30 Interview: Kimberly Rand

23:13 Interview: Young Mao and Tanya Brinston

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Healing Your Money Parts with Saundra Davis

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with the iconic Saundra Davis — master certified coach, financial well-being expert, and founder of Sage Financial Solutions — to explore the deeper layers of money, mindset, and human behavior.

Sandra shares her powerful journey from financial planning to financial coaching, unpacking why knowledge alone isn’t enough to create change — and how understanding our “money parts” through the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model can transform both our personal and professional relationships with money.

Together, they dive into:

How different parts of ourselves — the saver, the spender, the worrier, the giver — all try to protect us in their own ways
What it means to lead from our Self in financial decision-making
How to bring compassion, cultural humility, and mindfulness into client work
Why continuous learning, reflection, and safe community spaces like the AFCPE Symposium are vital for financial professionals

Whether you’re a coach, counselor, planner, or simply someone striving to make peace with money, this episode will leave you inspired to meet every “part” of yourself — and your clients — with grace, curiosity, and compassion.

Show Notes:

03:24 Saundra’s Journey into Financial Coaching

06:18 The Framework of IFS (Internal Family Systems)

11:57 How to Heal Your Money Parts

28:37 A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Saundra’s Pre-Conference Session

36:37 Saundra’s Two Cents

Show Notes Links:

Listening When Parts Speak by Tamala Floyd

No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz

Explore Sage Financial Solutions!

Connect with Saundra on Linkedin!

Connect with Saundra on Facebook!

Connect with Sage Financial Solutions on Instagram!

Explore Saundra Substack!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Money Talks: How to Heal Your Financial Story with Erika Wasserman

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Erika Wasserman, Certified Financial Therapist and author of Conversations with Your Financial Therapist: Stories and Scripts to Grow Your Financial Mindset. Erika shares how her personal journey—spanning a corporate career, global travel, motherhood, and personal transformation—shaped her holistic approach to financial well-being.

Together, they unpack the emotional side of money—how values, relationships, and even shame influence the way we spend, save, and talk about finances. Erika offers practical tools for breaking money taboos, building confidence, and creating space for empathy in financial conversations.

Whether you work directly with clients or are exploring your own relationship with money, this episode will inspire you to say yes to compassion and start the conversations that lead to financial clarity and confidence.

Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome to Real Money, Real Experts

03:13 Erika’s Journey to Financial Therapy

05:08 Why Money Fights Aren’t About Money

06:58 Breaking the Cycle of Money Shame

09:24 The Power of Compassion in Financial Conversations

10:52 How to Start Difficult Money Conversations

13:36 Inside the Growing Field of Financial Therapy

15:40 Why Professionals Must Know Their Own Money Story

18:59 Erika’s Two Cents

Show Note Links:

Grab your copy of Erika's book!

Connect with Erika on LinkedIn!

Follow 'Your Financial Therapist' on Instagram

Explore 'Your Financial Therapist' on Amazon!

Check out 'Your Financial Therapist' website!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The State of Financial Health in America with Lisa Berdie and Gary Mottola

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0400

What does financial health really look like in America today — and how can we help households thrive in an increasingly complex financial world? In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Lisa Berdie from the Financial Health Network and Dr. Gary Mottola from the Financial Investor Education Foundation (FINRA) to uncover the latest research on financial capability, resilience, and well-being. From the Financial Health Pulse to the National Financial Capability Study, they explore what drives financial health, how major life events like job loss or medical emergencies impact households, and what behaviors can help families build stability. Lisa and Gary also discuss systemic and structural barriers, trends in credit use, and practical steps financial counselors and educators can take to empower clients. Tune in for a deep dive into data, insights, and real-world strategies to help Americans navigate their financial lives with confidence and control.

Show Notes:

02:46 Get To Know Lisa & Gary

06:49 The Importance of Collaboration in Financial Research

08:34 Surprising Findings from the 2024 National Financial Capability Study

09:28 What’s Driving Household Financial Health?

16:13 Can Households Keep Up with Financial Complexity?

20:00 Practical Steps to Strengthen Financial Health

27:28 Lisa & Gary's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Gary on Linkedin!

Explore Gary's research on FINRA!

Look into Financial Health Pulse 2025 U.S. Trends Report!

Connect with Lisa on Linkedin!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Human Connection in a Disconnected World with Riaz Meghji

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0400

What do financial counseling, professional wrestling, and Hugh Jackman all have in common?

Human connection.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with international keynote speaker, author, and broadcaster Riaz Meghji to talk about why every conversation counts. With over 10,000 interviews under his belt—from celebrities to changemakers—Riaz has seen firsthand the power of meaningful dialogue. He shares how valuable vulnerability, curiosity over correction, and a beginner’s mindset can strengthen relationships and transform the way we connect with clients. We also explore the role of storytelling in financial counseling, why human connection matters more than ever in an age of polarization, and how financial professionals can make every conversation extraordinary.

Show Notes:

02:00 The Fun Fact That Started It All

05:26 From Finance to Human Connection

08:12 Embracing the Beginner’s Mindset

10:21 The Power of Co-Creation

14:21 Value-Added Vulnerability

23:25 Vulnerability vs. Oversharing

24:14 Riaz's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Riaz on Linkedin!

Connect with Riaz on Instagram!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From Trauma to Healing: Redefining Money Stories with Rahkim Sabree, AFC®

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with financial therapist, author, and AFC®, Rahkim Sabree, to explore the complex and deeply human realities of financial trauma.

Rahkim breaks down the six sources of financial trauma, from generational cycles and workplace dynamics to systemic barriers and societal expectations. He shares how financial professionals can adopt a trauma-informed lens, why empathy and language are essential in client interactions, and the importance of shifting from shame-based approaches to healing-centered ones.

The conversation also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look into Rahkim’s upcoming book Overcoming Financial Trauma (Wiley, 2025). He reflects on how writing the book transformed his own money story, the healing he’s found in revisiting his past, and why the theme of healing will anchor his keynote at the AFCPE 2025 Symposium.

Whether you’re a financial professional, a community leader, or someone working to redefine your own relationship with money, this episode will leave you with tools, language, and hope to build a healthier, more compassionate approach to financial wellness.

Show Notes:

01:56 Get To Know Rahkim

02:25 Defining financial trauma

06:29 Who is impacted by financial trauma?

10:11 Becoming trauma-informed vs. trauma-responsive

24:10 The power of personal stories in healing

34:42 Empathy, bias, and client relationships

35:38 Looking ahead to Rahkim’s keynote at AFCPE Symposium

37:14 Rahkim's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Read Rahkim's Forbes Article!

Connect with Rahkim on Linkedin!

Connect with Rahkim on Instagram!

Connect with Rahkim on Twitter!

Visit Rahkim's website!

Explore Rahkim's substack!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Preparing to Pivot: Career Lessons with Jacquie Carroll, AFC®

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Dr. Jacquie Carroll—educator, researcher, speaker, and Accredited Financial Counselor®—to talk about the power of the pivot.

Jacquie shares her non-linear career journey, from higher education and HR to financial counseling and now launching her own legacy project, GameKraft, a financial education game designed to help people learn in engaging, accessible ways.

Together, they explore:

Why pivots—both planned and unexpected—are essential to personal and professional growth.
How AFCs can prepare clients for an ever-changing workforce.
The importance of leaning into community, mentorship, and side hustles.
Why success isn’t about a straight path, but about being ready when preparation meets opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a career change, supporting clients through transitions, or just need inspiration to embrace the unexpected, this conversation is full of wisdom, encouragement, and practical takeaways.

Show Notes:

2:15 Jacquie’s Early Career

6:40 Discovering Financial Counseling

12:05 Embracing Career Pivots

18:20 Building Community & Connection

24:45 The Birth of GameKraft

32:10 Legacy & Impact

38:00 Jacquie's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Learn more about Jacquie's journey!

Connect with Jacquie on Linkedin!

Learn about GameKraft!

Jacquie's favorite resources!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Counseling Families Through College Costs with Michelle Smoley, AFC®

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Michelle Smoley, AFC®, a seasoned financial counselor with over two decades of experience guiding families through the higher education journey. Michelle shares her expertise in helping clients navigate student loans, financial aid, and the often-complex decision-making process around college financing.

From strategies for saving and borrowing wisely to addressing common misconceptions about financial aid, Michelle provides actionable insights for financial counselors and planners working with clients of all ages.

Whether you’re counseling parents, students, or young adults preparing for college, this episode equips financial professionals with the knowledge and tools to provide informed, practical guidance.

Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome to Real Money, Real Experts

06:31 Michelle’s Journey into Financial Counseling

13:01 Key Trends in College Financing

23:01 Common Misconceptions About College Costs

30:01 Early Financial Education for Young Adults

53:31 Michelle’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

T. Rowe Price’s 12th Annual Parents, Kids, & Money Survey

Michelle's favorite Private Lendor platform

Find an AFC

Connect with Michelle on Linkedin!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Money with Meaning: Aligning Faith, Values, and Financial Fulfillment with Weslia Echols and Willa Williams

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this inspiring episode, Rachael and Brandy sit down with Weslia Echols and Willa Williams—better known as your favorite financial aunties. As co-founders of Trinity Financial Coaching and co-hosts of Wealth and Wisdom Together, they guide Christian professional women toward financial fulfillment through their signature Five Milestones framework. Wes and Willa share how their friendship blossomed into a thriving business, the importance of aligning money with values, and why meeting clients with empathy and without judgment is essential for lasting change.

Show Notes:

00:00 Meet Weslia & Willa, your “financial aunties”

02:54 How they met and the five-year goal that came true

05:11 From student to business partner

07:26 The Five Milestones of Financial Fulfillment explained

09:53 What it’s like to run a business with your best friend

15:22 Becoming AFCs and the value of community

16:52 Navigating the intersection of faith and finances

20:43 Weslia & Willa’s 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Learn more about Trinity Financial Coaching!

Connect with Weslia & Willa on Instagram!

Connect with Weslia & Willa on Youtube!

Connect with Weslia & Willa on Facebook!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Breaking It Down: Turning Financial Complexity into Clarity with Derek Brainard

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by Derek Brainard, Director of Financial Education at AccessLex Institute, who shares how his background as a Navy trumpet player shaped his unique, down-to-earth approach to personal finance. From managing student loans to navigating economic uncertainty and the rise of AI, Derek offers insights for financial professionals looking to better support clients in a rapidly changing world. Tune in as we explore the importance of breaking down complexity into bite-sized steps, centering life goals in financial conversations, and staying curious as lifelong learners. Whether you're a seasoned AFC or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical wisdom — and a whole lot of #MoneyNerd energy.

Show Notes:

01:30 Derek’s Journey: From Navy Musician to Financial Educator

05:00 Learning Through Struggle: Debt, Discovery, and AFCPE

08:30 Financial Fulfillment and Why Language Matters

12:00 Helping Clients Get Unstuck Through Bite-Sized Wins

15:00 The Coach Mindset: Listening, Not Just Advising

18:30 AI, Technology, and the Human Advantage

22:00 Student Loans and Economic Uncertainty: Meeting the Moment

26:00 Building the Toolkit: How Financial Pros Can Keep Growing

30:00 Derek's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Derek on Linkedin!

Free 30-minute financial coaching service!

Check out AccessLex Tools & Resources!

Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear

Home | Federal Student Aid

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Learning Beyond the Lecture: Teaching Real-Life Financial Lessons with Dr. Jessica Limbrick, AFC®️

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Dr. Jessica Limbrick, an Accredited Financial Counselor®, researcher, and Assistant Professor at Nevada State University — and yes, she’s also the woman who throws full-blown birthday parties for 59½.

Jessica shares how her early fascination with personal finance, her own lived experiences, and a pivotal poverty simulation shaped her teaching philosophy. She talks about using metaphors, milestones, and empathy to bring financial concepts to life for her students — many of whom are working full-time or caring for families while attending college.

We explore her research on college students' shifting views on poverty, the intersection of wealth and perceived intelligence, and how educators and counselors alike can better serve clients across income levels. Plus, we talk AI, crypto, and why she believes everyone should embrace their own “experiment number” à la Lilo & Stitch.

This conversation will leave you thinking differently about the role of educators, the weight of financial systems, and the power of meeting people where they are — whether they’re clients, students, or simply fellow humans navigating life.

Show Notes:

00:51 How personal finance shaped Jessica's path

05:41 Jessica's why

08:03 Why educators need to utilize creativity with financial education

13:43 The future of AI & crypto in financial planning

17:20 Poverty simulation & impact on her research

30:08 Jessica's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Jessica on Instagram!

Connect with Jessica on Linkedin!

*The link below will ask for a donation. Please note this site is not affiliated with AFCPE.

https://playspent.org/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Whole Self, Whole Wealth: The Power of Holistic Financial Wellness with Dr. Brandon Shurn, AFC®️

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by Dr. Brandon Shurn, AFC®️—a mental health counselor, counselor educator, accredited financial counselor, and certified personal trainer—who brings a truly holistic perspective to financial wellness.

Dr. Shurn walks us through his journey from traditional mental health counseling to founding his private practice, Empower Me Holistic Counseling. He shares how financial health, physical health, and mental well-being are deeply interconnected—and how professionals can support clients by addressing the full picture.

We discuss how to help clients break free from generational money scripts, how to define your ideal client in private practice, and why time is one of our most powerful yet underutilized resources.

Show Notes:

03:25 Brandon's journey into financial wellness

08:37 How money scripts shape behavior—and how to reframe them

12:55 Breaking generational cycles through financial empowerment

18:32 Why your ideal client matters

21:29 Knowing your audience = more effective client attraction

23:40 Why time is a tool, not a barrier

25:32 Brandon's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Brandon on Linkedin!

Learn more about Empower Me Holistic Counseling!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Human Side of Wealth: Training the Next Gen of Planners with Hannah Moore, CFP®️

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0400

What if we trained financial planners by starting with the client — not the textbook?

Hannah Moore, CFP®️, has spent her entire career asking that question and building a better answer. As the founder of Amplified Planning and the visionary behind The Externship — an immersive, 8-week program for aspiring planners — Hannah is on a mission to reshape how financial professionals are trained. Instead of focusing solely on technical knowledge, she’s created an approach rooted in empathy, lived experiences, and real-world client interactions.

In this episode, Hannah shares how she’s flipping the script on financial education by leading with humanity. We dive into why it’s so important to see clients as people, not just portfolios, and what it really takes to prepare planners to show up with both confidence and compassion. She opens up about building a business that’s changing the industry, raising three young kids, and why letting go of perfection has become a powerful part of her leadership journey. If you’re ready to rethink the future of financial planning, this conversation is a must.

Show Notes:

02:49 Hannah's Journey Into the Financial Planning World

05:35 Exploring The Externship: Purpose and Impact

11:25 The Power of Collaboration: AFC® and CFP® Working Together

15:04 Leading with Empathy: The Human Side of Financial Planning

25:21 Real-Life Reflections: Navigating Motherhood and Community Support

30:07 Hannah's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Hannah on Linkedin!

Connect with Amplified Planning on Linkedin!

Learn more about the Externship!

Subscribe to Amplified Planning!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Generation Preservation: What We Leave Behind with Glen Cone, AFC®

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re joined by Glen Cone, AFC®, a seasoned financial counselor with more than 15 years of experience serving individuals in estate and end-of-life planning. Glen shares insights from his personal and professional journey—including his work as a counselor for the VBBP program and Magellan Health—and invites us to explore the concept of Generation Preservation: the intentional act of documenting and preserving personal and financial legacies for future generations.

From demystifying estate transitions to understanding the emotional weight clients carry as they age, Glen provides practical guidance for AFC® professionals supporting clients through some of life’s most complex financial and personal decisions. He also reflects on the importance of storytelling, values, and why preserving what matters most goes far beyond financial assets.

Whether you're working with aging populations, military families, or multigenerational households, this episode offers a compelling reminder: financial counseling isn’t just about preparing the numbers—it’s about preparing people.

Show Notes:

02:36 Glen's journey into the personal finance field

05:15 The "why" behind Glen's work with the seasoned generation

07:47 What is "Generation Preservation"

15:02 Your guide to "Generation Preservation" as a financial professional

18:04 Why money is personal

20:10 Glen's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

https://www.afcpe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Generation-Preservation-Fillable-Link-1-1.pdf

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Money Lessons for a New Generation with Colleen Salchow, AFC®

Tue, 27 May 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode, we sit down with Colleen Salchow—Marine Corps spouse, Accredited Financial Counselor, and former special education teacher—who is passionate about helping teens, young adults, and military families take control of their financial futures. With a background in counseling and education, Colleen brings a compassionate, real-world approach to financial literacy.

From teaching teens the value of budgeting through real-life consequences (like trading Nike money for a new phone) to showing families how to look beyond college tuition and understand the true cost of higher education, Colleen shares stories and strategies that make money management feel less intimidating and more empowering. She also opens up about the financial lessons she’s learned through frequent military moves and why having a fully funded emergency fund is essential for any military family.

Whether you're a parent, a caregiver, or someone navigating your own financial journey, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and relatable advice you won’t want to miss.

Show Notes:

02:36 Colleen's financial lessons

06:31 From teaching to personal finance: Colleen's "why"

10:49 How the AFC impacted Colleen's solopreneur journey

15:28 Student loan planning 101

25:53 The balance between guiding your children financially & allowing them to make their own mistakes

29:47 Colleen's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Colleen on Linkedin!

Learn more about the National Center of Education!

Click here for more resources from the National Center of Education!

Listen to Smart College Buyer Podcast!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Grace, Growth, and Securing the Bag: A Conversation with Adrienne Taylor®

Tue, 13 May 2025 11:00:00 -0400

This week, our co-hosts sit down with Adrienne Taylor—entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of Tailored WealthSaver®—to explore how building wealth is about more than just the numbers. Adrienne shares her journey from pharmacy to finance, her passion for helping millennials achieve financial freedom, and the lessons she learned expanding her business through a strategic partnership.

Together, we reflect on the real challenges entrepreneurs face behind the scenes, including navigating personal transitions like divorce, and why giving yourself grace is essential to long-term success. Adrienne reminds us that financial wellness and business growth go hand-in-hand—and that with the right support, what once felt unimaginable can become reality.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, working toward financial stability, or redefining what success looks like in your own life, this episode offers powerful insights on resilience, reinvention, and the beauty of betting on yourself.

Show Notes:

02:27 From pharmacy to finance: Adrienne's personal journey

07:12 The millennial personal finance secret strategy

09:42 How business expansion can be your biggest gain rather than loss

11:54 The blessings & burdens of being an entrepreneur

19:40 What's to come for Tailored Wealth Saver

Show Note Links:

Connect with Adrienne on LinkedIn!

Connect with Adrienne on Instagram!

Money Without Shame: Creating Safe Spaces for Financial Healing with Joanne Danganan

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0400

This week our co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Joanne Danganan—founder of Financial Healing and California Market Manager for Financial Beginnings—to explore how healing our relationship with money begins with finding safe spaces. Joanne shares her personal story as the daughter of Filipino immigrants, her journey into financial education, and why access to this knowledge is a justice issue.

Together, we unpack the cultural shame often tied to money, and the courage it takes to simply start the conversation. From choosing the right people to confide in, to redefining what financial well-being looks like, Joanne reminds us that vulnerability is a strength—and that financial education must be rooted in empathy and inclusion.

Whether you're navigating your own financial healing or creating spaces for others to do the same, this episode is a heartfelt reminder: you deserve to talk about money without fear, shame, or judgment.

Show Notes:

02:35 Joanne's journey into the personal finance field

07:03 Financial education resources for teachers

08:26 The "why" behind Financial Healing

11:24 How to ease financial anxiety

15:06 The Five Money Languages

21:15 Why fear is the secret weapon to financial freedom

23:47 How to start about money with no shame

25:20 Joanne's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Instagram: @financialhealing

Connect with Financial Healing on Linkedin!

Learn more about Financial Healing with Joanne!

Learn more about Financial Beginnings!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Coaching Through Change: Jon Akerman’s Journey from Burnout to Impact

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0400

After years of navigating the fast-paced world of actuarial consulting in New York City, Jon Akerman found himself burnt out and unsure of his next step. Instead of staying stuck, Jon embraced uncertainty — relocating to a new state, joining the Florida Army National Guard, and discovering his passion for financial coaching. Now, as a coach with MyBudgetCoach, Jon empowers people to break free from living paycheck to paycheck and take control of their financial futures. In this episode, Jon shares his powerful journey of transformation, his insights on making meaningful financial decisions, and his mission to guide underserved communities toward financial stability. Plus, he reveals why listening — really listening — can be a game-changer in both life and money.

Show Notes:

02:33 Jon's financial counseling and coaching journey

06:49 What led Jon to the AFC

11:36 Bad money management does not discriminate

13:58 How to make meaningful change in your financial decisions

16:52 Jon's "why" behind joining MyBudgetCoach

19:50 Jon's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Meet Your Budget Coach: Jon Akerman

Explore Jon's Website!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From Paycheck to Prosperity: Jackie's Road to F.I.R.E.

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0400

Achieving financial independence doesn’t require a six-figure salary — just ask Jackie Koski. In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Jackie Koski, an Accredited Financial Counselor and Certified Financial Planner who achieved financial independence in her 40s — all while earning less than six figures. Jackie shares her inspiring journey of overcoming poverty, divorce, and single motherhood to reach F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence, Retire Early). She breaks down her proven formula for building wealth, the importance of mindset in financial success, and how passing down financial wisdom can create a lasting legacy. Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with practical strategies for achieving financial freedom on your own terms.

Show Notes:

02:18 How Jackie Achieved Financial Independence on Less Than Six Figures

08:37 The Heart Behind "Money Letters to My Daughter"

11:10 Jackie's Proven Blueprint for Achieving F.I.R.E.

14:16 Why Starting Late Could Be Your Greatest Advantage

19:07 Embracing Your Strengths to Unlock Financial Success

23:38 The Unexpected Power of the $2 Bill

28:35 Jackie's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Jackie on LinkedIn

Connect with Jackie on IG

Secure your copy of “Money Letters 2 my Daughter"

Secure your copy of “F.I.R.E. for Dummies”

Learn more about Jackie and what she’s up to here.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Trust, Training, and Financial Wellness: How to Build Stronger Money Habits with Ericka Young, AFC®

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with financial coach, author, and educator Ericka Young, AFC, who shares her personal journey of paying off $90,000 in debt and building a career helping families achieve financial freedom.

Ericka discusses the importance of open and honest money conversations, both in relationships and in financial institutions, explaining how trust plays a crucial role in financial success. She also dives into practical strategies for raising financially responsible kids, emphasizing why giving teens ownership over major purchases—like their first car—can set them up for a lifetime of smart money habits.

From workplace financial wellness programs to training future financial coaches, Ericka’s expertise spans across individuals, families, and businesses. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on building trust, taking ownership, and rewriting your financial story!

Show Notes:

02:47 Why seasons of pause & intentionality are vital when surviving the teen years

07:22 Ericka's journey to the credit union world

14:26 Your tips & tricks in working with credit unions

16:48 The powerful impact financial wellness programs have in workplace culture

24:59 How to have money chats with your partner

31:22 Ericka's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Check out Ericka's wesbite!

Connect with Ericka on Linkedin!

Connect with Ericka on Instagram!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Wealth Within: How Self-Worth Shapes Net Worth with Justin Chastain, AFC®️

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0500

What does it mean to build true wealth?

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with financial planner Justin Chastain, AFC®️ to explore the connection between self-worth and financial success, the emotional impact of money, and the power of authenticity in both personal and professional growth.

Show Notes:

01:24 Justin's journey into the financial planning space

04:38 The AFC is they key to lifelong learning

07:33 How creating buckets of value influence our financial decisions

14:21 Why leaning into your uniqueness is your superpower

22:22 The secret behind building wealth for a business

27:41 What to look for in mentors & coaches

32:24 Justin's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Justin on Linkedin!

Connect with Justin on Instagram!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

More Than Your Money with Jessica Moorhouse, AFCC®

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by Jessica Moorhouse, a leading financial educator, podcast host, and founder of MoorMoney Media Inc. Jessica’s passion for financial literacy started early—she worked her way through university and mastered frugality. But after stepping into the professional world, she realized that budgeting alone wasn’t enough to achieve the life she dreamed of. Determined to learn more, she became an expert in financial planning and building wealth, eventually leaving her marketing career to launch her own financial education company.

Join us as we discuss Jessica’s journey from frugal beginnings to financial empowerment, the importance of recognizing that you are more than money, and practical steps to help you build a life of purpose and abundance. Jessica also shares highlights from her newly released book and offers powerful insights on how to shift your mindset around money and success.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will encourage you to embrace your full potential—beyond your bank balance.

Show Notes:

02:06 – Jessica’s “Why” for Everything But Money: The Hidden Barriers Between You and Financial Freedom
04:33 – How Jessica Uncovered Her Own Money Story (and How You Can Too!)
15:08 – Jessica’s Journey to the AFCPE Community
18:17 – Why Getting to the Root of Your Money Story is Your Biggest Strength
20:59 – Jessica’s Two Cents

Show Note Links:

IG @jessicaimoorhouse

YouTube @jessicamoorhouse

LinkedIn @jessicamoorhouse

https://jessicamoorhouse.com/book

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Join Me At #AFCPE with Dr. Brandy Baxter, AFC®️

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In the Season 6 premiere of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by 2025 Board President and our new co-host Dr. Brandy Baxter, AFC®️, the powerhouse behind Living Abundantly and Envision 30. As an Accredited Financial Counselor®️, financial coach, and strategic leader, Brandy helps individuals and organizations think from the future to achieve financial success. With a wealth of experience—including her service in the U.S. Air Force, leadership in financial education, and dedication to community building—Brandy brings a unique perspective on how forgiveness plays a crucial role in financial well-being.

Join us as we discuss the power of community, the importance of elevating diverse voices in financial coaching, and how simple steps like storytelling can make planning for the future less intimidating. Brandy’s insights will leave you inspired to take action, forgive financial mistakes, and embrace abundance.

Tune in and take your seat at the table—because we’re all more powerful when we come together.

Show Notes:

2:00 Introducing our new co-host...Dr. Brandy Baxter

2:12 What led Brandy to AFCPE

09:03 Brandy's hope for her presidency

11:43 How serving on the AFCPE Board of Directors has impacted Brandy's journey

15:59 Why the AFC matters

20:02 Looking ahead for the future of Real Money, Real Experts

22:33 Brandy's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Brandy on Linkedin!

Connect with Brandy on Instagram at @brandys2cents4u

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Voices of Symposium: Real Experts, Real Takeaways

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0500

In this special season finale, Rachael and Mary bring you voices of #ExperienceAFCPE2024 attendees directly from the symposium floor. Attendees share their experiences, key takeaways, and advice for financial educators and those entering the field. This compilation of mini-interviews offers unique insights into the world of financial education and the power of shared learning.

This episode is also Mary’s final episode as podcast co-host. After 5 years, Mary is passing the baton to a new co-host – to be announced in the new year. Mary and Rachael reminisce about the good times, the laughter, and look forward to a new chapter in 2025.

Show Notes:
00:02 Welcome to the Season 5 finale of Real Money, Real Experts
12:32 Switching it up for this year's Symposium Recap
14:43 Voices of Symposium ft. the AFCPE Community
33:15 Mary's farewell
36:53 See you in February with Season 6!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

It's Not You, It's The System with Dr. Michael G. Thomas

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500

In this powerful episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson sit down with Dr. Michael G. Thomas Jr., a financial empathy expert and lecturer at the University of Georgia, who is changing the way we think about money and wealth. As an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®), Dr. Thomas’s work emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-compassion, and active listening in financial counseling and planning. We explore his unique philosophy that the journey to financial health is deeply relational—not just about personal gain but about shouldering each other’s burdens and celebrating each other's successes.

Dr. Thomas shares insights from his book, Black Financial Culture: Building Wealth from the Inside Out, and we dive into the impact of brain function on financial behavior and the essential role of data visualization in helping individuals see their financial paths more clearly. Dr. Thomas’s message is clear: we don’t all start or end at the same place, and it's about recognizing our shared struggles and learning how to thrive collectively.

Show Notes:
02:41 A Glimpse Into Michael's Keynote Speech
07:21 It's Not You, It's the System
12:22 Digging into Michael's book "Black Financial Culture"
17:58 Unpacking cultural norms
22:18 The importance of genuine connection
27:13 Why the AFCPE Symposium is a constant
29:58 Michael's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/moneyandwellness/
Twitter @Modomsolutions
Instagram @modomsolutions
Tik Tok @modomsolutions

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Behind the Schemes: Unmasking Financial Fraud with Robert Mascio and Lori Schock

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we tackle the evolving world of financial fraud and how we can break the cycle of shame that often keeps victims silent. In this exclusive sneak peek of their keynote session at this year’s symposium, Lori Schock, Director of the SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, and Robert Mascio, Director of Investor Education Outreach at FINRA, share compelling stories of today’s most sophisticated scams such as AI-driven impersonation schemes. Lori and Robert explain how fraudsters exploit trust and emotion, and why it's crucial to have open conversations about these tactics. By discussing fraud openly, we can empower victims, protect ourselves, and make more informed decisions.

Don’t miss this insightful preview into the strategies you can use to safeguard against these evolving threats.

Show Notes:
02:50 What is the SEC?
04:08 What is FINRA?
05:56 Lori's career path to the SEC
08:59 Robert's career path to FINRA
11:30 How the financial fraud landscape has changed
12:30 The rise of technology has impacted the financial fraud landscape
16:26 How to spot an impersonation scam
18:11 Resources to protect yourself against financial scams
20:02 Why conversations are vital to break the guilt & shame victims experience
22:36 Lori's 2 cents
24:51 Robert's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
SEC Website
Investor.gov
FINRA's BrokerCheck
FINRA’s Website
Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website
Help for Seniors Website
Help for Seniors phoneline: 844-574-3577
Investor.gov phoneline: 1-800-732-0330
Robert Mascio's Linkedin

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Why We Don’t Talk About Money: Exploring Financial Stigma with Wendy De La Rosa

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0400

In this thought-provoking episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael and Mary are joined by Wendy De La Rosa, Assistant Professor at the Wharton School and behavioral finance expert, to dive deep into the psychology behind our financial decisions.

Wendy shares how behavioral science can reshape the way we approach saving, spending, and budgeting, offering practical strategies to build healthier money habits and eliminate financial shame. We’ll also explore why money remains a taboo topic, the role of AI in personal finance, and how to create an environment that supports financial well-being.

Whether you’re looking to get a handle on your budget, gain confidence in your financial decisions, or simply understand why we think the way we do about money, this episode is packed with insights to help you take control of your financial future.

Show Notes:
04:18 Why we don't talk money (& why we should)
05:36 Financial Shame no more
08:06 Practical tips to talk about money with your loved ones
10:02 A sneak peek into Wendy's next project
13:00 Why a spreadsheet is not the answer for financial wellbeing
17:29 How to bring women into the financial conversation
20:31 How AI will influence personal finances
22:45 Wendy's top resources for financial conversations
23:53 Wendy's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Wendy's Linkedin
Wendy's X/Twitter
Your Money, Your Mind Ted Talk
Wendy's Ted Talk

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Beyond Shame & Blame: Building Bold Money Habits with Syble Solomon

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In this insightful episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Syble Solomon, the visionary behind Money Habitudes and a trailblazer in the world of financial behavior. Syble shares her unique journey, from her early career as a Peace Corps volunteer to becoming a Financial Behavior Specialist, transforming how people understand their relationship with money. We explore her "deck of cards" approach to life, the pivotal moments that shaped her work, and how AFCPE® has played a crucial role in her success.

Get a sneak peek into AFCPE 2024, learn about Syble’s breakthrough moments with debt, and hear her powerful message about being bold in your money habits. This episode is packed with wisdom, motivation, and practical advice for meeting people where they are and empowering them to move forward.

Show Notes:
02:53 Who is Syble Solomon?
06:39 The beginning of Money Habitudes
09:55 Syble's debt breakthrough
11:34 Dealing with the deck of cards life throws at you
16:45 AFCPE to the rescue!
17:28 How AFCPE impacted Money Habitudes
20:10 Safe and Sound: A sneak peek at AFCPE2024!
28:40 How to be bold in your money habits
33:44 Syble's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
https://www.moneyhabitudes.com/
https://shop.moneyhabitudes.com/cards/
https://www.afcpe.org/symposium/
https://www.freefrom.org/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Just Move: From Discomfort to Progress with David Scherer and Joe Davis

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

In this keynote episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re diving into the power of movement—whether it’s moving beyond cultural gaps, moving through discomfort, or moving towards impactful change.

Join us as we kick off the Symposium Keynote series with two incredible guests, David Scherer and Joe Davis, who are experts in bridging the diversity gap through thoughtful, grace-based conversations. David and Joe share their insights on how we can just move beyond guilt, blame, and shame, creating brave spaces where we can challenge ourselves to embrace discomfort and grow.

David Scherer, an educator, speaker, and performer, brings over 20 years of experience in intercultural development and anti-racism work across the globe. Joe Davis, an award-winning artist and educator, uses poetry, music, and dance to reshape culture and connect communities. Together, they share their unique approaches to facilitating impactful conversations around race, money, and culture.

Tune in to learn how we can start building bridges across cultural differences and move towards a more inclusive and empathetic world. It all starts with the courage to just move.

Show Notes:
03:07 Your "JustMove" crash course
05:52 Getting to know David
08:14 Getting to know Joe
11:12 What is money culture & implicit bias?
12:41 How to foster a culture of money curiosity
14:13 The power of conversation & accountability in financial counseling
18:04 Practice makes progress
21:24 Action steps to breaking free from discomfort & creating brave spaces
27:59 David's & Joe's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
@justmoveculture, @joedavispoetry, and @agapedave1
For more information on their work, go to www.justmoveculture.com
Joedavispoetry.com: https://www.joedavispoetry.com/
Joe’s books: https://www.joedavispoetry.com/books

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Money Magic: Unleashing the Genie in Your Finances with Cara Macksoud

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Cara Macksoud, the dynamic CEO of Money Habitudes, who shares her remarkable journey from a 15-year career on Wall Street to becoming a leading voice in the behavioral finance space. Cara’s insights reveal how money is more than just numbers—it's a tool with its own hopes and dreams. We explore her unique perspective that “personal finance is anything but personal,” and learn why having small, meaningful conversations about money can lead to big changes in our financial lives. Whether you're looking to unlock the 'money genie' within or understand how every dollar can be an arrow in your financial quiver, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

Show Notes:

02:27 The journey of becoming the CEO of Money Habitudes
09:32 Why we are more similar than different
10:54 The impact of our financial behaviors
14:43 How Money Habitudes helps you create your own story
24:16 Why loud budgeting may not be the answer
27:28 The power of intentionality
31:00 How to foster positive financial habits
32:53 Cara's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caramacksoud/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/money-habitudes

Cara@moneyhabitudes.com

https://www.moneyhabitudes.com/

https://shop.moneyhabitudes.com/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Empowering the Next Generation with Dr. Tiffany Murray, AFC®️

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Dr. Tiffany Murray, AFC®️ the Managing Director of the Society for Financial Education and Professional Development, Inc. (SFEPD). Tiffany shares her journey from leading Red to Black®️ Peer Financial Coaching at Texas Tech University to becoming a driving force behind SFEPD’s financial literacy programs. We explore how her core purpose and mission align with empowering the next generation to make informed money decisions. Tiffany discusses the innovative use of Money Management Essentials (MME) to train student ambassadors, offering insights into bridging the gap between old and new financial knowledge.

Tune in to learn how Tiffany is paving the way for financial education that transcends generations and empowers youth to take control of their financial futures.

Show Notes:

02:12 Catching up with Tiffany!

07:01 The impact & power of student ambassadors

16:03 Why the future of financial coaching is bright

19:35 Insight into the AFCPE Archives Project

21:54 What led Tiffany to the AFC

24:33 Tiffany's go-to FinLit resources

25:36 Tiffany's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Tiffany's Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tiffany-murray-ph-d-afc®️-a975b325

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Pursuing Your Passion with Jessica Medina, AFC®️

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400

"Would you believe that all of those things are part of the AFC program? It's like a warm, fuzzy blanket that I wear at night."

Jessica Medina is not throwing away her shot.

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we welcome Jessica Medina, a dedicated Accredited Financial Counselor®️ who transitioned from a career in law to follow her true passion. Jessica's journey highlights the power of embracing life's unexpected paths and finding fulfillment in new dreams.

In this episode, Jessica shares her inspiring story of letting go of one dream to pursue another, and how she discovered her true calling in financial coaching. She discusses the importance of following the path life presents to you, even when the answers aren't clear at first, especially when starting a private practice. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on finding your path, embracing uncertainty, and the impact of personal passions on professional success.

Show Notes:
2:00 The Hamiltune's are back!
03:37 Jessica's transition from law to pursuing her passion
06:34 The secret to starting your private practice
09:02 Unlocking the entrepreneur mindset
11:41 How collaboration & networking are your secret weapon
15:43 The power behind stepping outside of your comfort zone
18:31 Why you need to set boundaries
21:18 What led Jessica to the AFC
27:29 Handling life's transitions & saying yes
30:17 Jessica's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
https://www.jessicamedinallc.com/studentloanseries

Website: https://www.jessicamedinallc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamedinallc

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jessicamedinallc

Instagram: @jessicamedinallc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9_kStA0zw2

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Advocacy in Action: Using Your Voice to Make a Difference with Raven Newberry, AFC®

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we delve into the power of community and advocacy with Raven Newberry, AFC®. Raven Newberry is the managing director of policy and advocacy for the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), leading efforts to shape financial education policies on state and national levels. In this episode, we discuss how using your voice to advocate for change can create powerful ripples throughout your community. Join us as we explore the collective fingerprints of the AFCPE community in supporting the passing of crucial legislation and the impact we can make at the local and community level.

Show Notes:
02:59 Raven's top horror movie pick for the summer
03:41 The perfect blend of geography & personal finance
05:12 Why public policy and advocacy matter
07:17 The catalyst of the financial education movement
10:33 How to begin your advocacy journey
13:16 The power of community & longevity in your advocacy journey
21:05 Raven's 2 cents

Show Notes Link:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/raven-newberry-5baa9774/
https://www.nefe.org/about/our-team/default.aspx
https://www.nefe.org/initiatives/ecosystem/default.aspx, https://www.nefe.org/impact/policy-and-advocacy/default.aspx, https://www.nefe.org/impact/policy-and-advocacy/policy-tracker.aspx
https://fined50.org/
https://www.ngpf.org/
https://www.jumpstart.org/
https://www.cee.org/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Rewrite Your Money Story with Jasmine Johnson

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400

This week, we welcome Jasmine Johnson, Accredited Financial Counselor®️, Entertainment Accountant, and Mental Health Advocate to Real Money, Real Experts. Jasmine has spent over a decade empowering individuals and families to transform their financial mindset and achieve Financial Independence.

In this episode, Jasmine shares how growing up in poverty influenced her own money story, and how it's made a difference in the way she supports clients. She talks about how embracing life’s unexpected turns can lead you exactly where you need to be. Tune in for a compelling discussion on personal growth, financial empowerment, and the journey to self-discovery.

Show Notes:
02:18 Jasmine's journey to the AFC
08:51 The beginning of Jasmine's money story
11:29 How emotions and finances intertwine
13:09 Uncovering your money story
17:47 What led Jasmine to opening her own business
20:33 The importance of being a life long learner
22:41 Jasmine's 2 cents

Show Notes Links:
https://www.square1accounting.com/yourresources
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman - https://a.co/d/fM1j5y4
Financial decisions 90% emotions
IG: jasmine_themoneycoach
YT: jasmine_themoneycoach
website: www.square1accounting.com
https://www.square1accounting.com/yourresources

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Navigating Cultural Differences with Dr. Kate Mielitz, AFC®

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

This week, we welcome Kate Mielitz, PhD, AFC®️, CDP®️ , back to Real Money, Real Experts. Dr. Kate has 25 years of experience in financial services, including bankruptcy, fraud, financial counseling, and higher education, and she's dedicated to helping financial and human services professionals navigate cultural differences.

On today's episode, we take a deep dive into the ways our background and lived experiences affect our relationship with money and gain strategies for working more effectively with vulnerable populations. Kate is a wealth of knowledge, and her energy and enthusiasm is contagious. Want to gain insights and resources to help you learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion and ensure you are truly meeting clients where they are? Tune into this episode!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Heart of A Financial Educator Unlocked with Mike Lanway

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Our first podcast episode to kick off with a love story!

Join Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Carlson as they sit down with Mike Lanway, CFP®, TSP expert, and self-proclaimed federal benefits "nerd." In this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we explore Mike's unique personal and professional journey and uncover the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way.

From ministry to personal finance, Mike has a heart for service and a passion for ensuring that federal employees understand what their benefits can do for them. He speaks about his journey as a financial planner, and how going through Money Management Essentials and the AFC certification has elevated his work with clients.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating career paths and finding your true calling. Don't miss out on this episode packed with wisdom and inspiration!

Show Notes:
02:23 It's (Mike + Lanelle's) love story, just say yes
05:41 Mike's transition from ministry to financial services
08:37 The perfect marriage between passion and purpose
11:02 Lanway Companies' best move
12:52 How education is the most important tool in your toolbox
14:05 A behind the scenes look into being a business owner
18:31 Mike's journey to the AFC
19:50 The value of the AFC
21:38 Mike's ecosystem in the federal government space
24:06 Why your network is key in pursuing your passion
27:24 How you are the expert in your own life
31:10 The power of prayer, trust, and peace of mind
32:56 Mike's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
The Big Book of AA; Humility by Andrew Murray; Surprised By Joy by CS Lewis; The Bible
All About CSRS, FERS and TSP, INC. – We are invested in your financial future. (allaboutfers.com)
Datapoints

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Elevating Nonprofit Financial Coaching with the AFC with Christine Niccoli and Nathalie Kallab Racimo

Tue, 28 May 2024 11:00:00 -0400

On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Christine Niccoli, Director in Community Impact at United Way Massachusetts Bay, and Nathalie Kallab Racimo, AFC, Senior Homeownership and Financial Services Advisor at NOAH.

In this important episode, we discuss the importance of professionalizing the financial coaching space, recognizing the effects of trauma on financial wellbeing, leading from a place of empathy, and how you can be a catalyst for change in your own community. Christine and Nathalie share why they chose the AFC certification, the benefit the AFC has brought to them and their coaches, and some of the challenges they have navigated along the way.

Learn how you can start your journey to the AFC today in the show notes below.

Show Notes:
02:58 What led Christine to the AFC
07:14 Nathalie's AFC journey
09:54 The importance of financial empowerment
16:36 How the AFC' certification benefits communities
20:40 The challenges faced on the path to the AFC
28:55 The power of financial accessibility to all
33:20 Nathalie's 2 cents
34:46 Christine's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Nathalie Kallab Racimo, AFC® | LinkedIn
Facebook
United Way Mass Bay (@UnitedWayMABay) / X (twitter.com)
United Way of Massachusetts Bay : Overview | LinkedIn
United Way Pilots First-In-The-Nation Financial Counselor Certification Training for Non-Profit Financial Coaches in Eastern Massachusetts - United Way of Massachusetts Bay (unitedwaymassbay.org)
NOAH
Engage@EMPath

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

How To Be A Servant Leader with Gilbert Rogers

Tue, 14 May 2024 11:00:00 -0400

"Tailor what you're doing to the audience that you're serving."-Gilbert Rogers.

On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Gilbert Rogers, AFC. Gilbert is the Director of Financial Wellbeing at UNC Chapel Hill. He is a national thought leader in the financial education space and has worked with the Army’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and participates as a financial counselor for the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP).

In this enlightening conversation, Gilbert shares the importance of financial empowerment and his mission to change the trajectory of financial accessibility. Learn how you can be a servant leader, and a part of the change.

Show Notes:

02:26 Gilbert's journey into the financial education space

04:00 Diving into his military background

05:29 What led Gilbert to the AFC

07:02 The impact of building foundational skills

08:24 How you really can have the best of both worlds

12:00 Finding the common thread amongst different communities

14:26 Say yes to opportunities

16:42 A deeper look into his AMBA experience

19:17 How "Understanding Poverty" changed Gilbert's approach to financial counseling

22:02 The secret to being a servant leader

23:39 Gilbert's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Gilbert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilbertrogers/

Higher Education Foundation Wellness Alliance: https://www.hefwa.org/

AFC Certification: https://www.afcpe.org/certification/

Hazel Joyce Wiley Career & Financial Literacy, Inc: https://hjwfinancial.org/

Dr. Ruby Payne - Understanding Poverty: https://a.co/d/37J8eOV

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Journey to 100 Episodes with Rachael & Mary

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Step into the spotlight with us as we commemorate the 100th episode of Real Money, Real Experts. In this special episode, we reminisce on the trials, triumphs, and unforgettable moments that have defined our podcast journey and look ahead to the future.

We pull back the curtain to give you a look at our podcast journey, answer listener questions, and share some of our favorite moments along the way. But this episode isn't just about us—it's about you, the people who have been the heartbeat of Real Money, Real Experts since its inception. As we take a trip down memory lane, we'll shine a spotlight on the incredible stories and connections that have been forged along the way, sharing intimate behind-the-scenes anecdotes that reveal the human side of our podcast.

Show Notes:
02:28 BTS of Rachael's first episode
03:30 How Real Money, Real Experts came to fruition
05:41 Reflecting on the real stories of Real Money, Real Experts
09:02 Rachael & Mary's most memorable episodes
16:27 What the AFCPE community is saying
20:43 Rachael & Mary's biggest gain in the journey so far
27:16 The future of AFCPE and what's to come in the future
33:03 Mary's 2 cents
34:52 The future of Real Money, Real Experts
36:58 Winner Reveal!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Purpose, Passion, and the Power of Pivoting with Lissa Prudencio

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Join co-hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson as they welcome Lissa Prudencio, AFC®, Founder of Wealth for Women of Color. In our latest episode, Lissa shares the power of pivoting and reminds us that investing in ourselves can help change the world. You'll learn the secret to intentionality, how to avoid burnout, and the importance of putting yourself first in your financial wellness journey. Lissa is on a mission to empower women of color to break down financial barriers and build wealth.

Show Notes:

02:58 Lissa's pivot from the corporate world to pursuing her passion

04:34 The story behind Wealth for Women of Color

06:44 How investing in your wealth will change the world

09:36 The importance of bridging the wealth gap together as a community

11:52 What led Lissa to the AFC

19:33 Lissa's life lessons from burnout

25:38 The secret to intentionality

30:48 The instrumental impact of gratitude and empathy

32:25 Lissa's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

https://www.youtube.com/wealthforwomenofcolor

https://www.tiktok.com/@wealthforwomenofcolor

https://instagram.com/wealthforwomenofcolor

https://wealthforwomenofcolor.com/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Leading with Values and Stories with Sara Lohse

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Join co-hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson in this week's episode as they welcome Sara Lohse, AFC® and Founder of Favorite Daughter Media, to the conversation. Fueled by caffeine and unwavering passion, Sara is a master at blending storytelling and marketing to empower mission-driven brands to amplify their impact.

In this fun conversation, Sara takes us on a journey into the heart of authentic storytelling. We talk about podcasting, thought leadership, and emphasizing the importance of leading with values and stories. Learn how you can harness the power of storytelling to connect with your audience on a deeper level, leaving a lasting impression and driving meaningful change.

Show Notes:

02:28 Sara's perfect marriage between personal finance and marketing

04:01 What led Sara to the AFC

08:26 Sara's secret to podcasting

10:34 The power of leading with value and stories

12:31 How to be a thought leader

14:12 Leaning into your authenticity is your strength

18:26 The power of consistency

20:48 The art of storytelling

23:53 Sara's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

@favoritedaughtermedia (FB, Insta, LinkedIn)

@_saralohse (Twitter, Insta)

@saralohse (linkedin)

https://favoritedaughtermedia.com/

Open This Book

Branded – Advice for podcast guest

https://favoritedaughtermedia.com/services/branded-podcasts/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Building Bridges: A Journey of Passion and Purpose with Lynne Patterson

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0400

On this week's episode, co-hosts, Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson, are joined by AFCPE Board Member and FINRA Foundation Fellow, Lynne Patterson, AFC. Lynne's expertise and passion for fostering collaboration and resilience stem from her deep military connections. As both a service member and a dependent she has moved an astounding 35 times, providing her with a unique lens into the challenges that military families face.

On this episode, we dive into Lynne's unique professional journey, and we celebrate the transformative power of community and the tireless efforts of changemakers like Lynne who are creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Show Notes:
03:37 The challenges military spouses face
04:38 Lynne's journey to the AFC
06:51 The magic behind the FINRA Foundation Fellowship
08:54 Building the bridge between military heroes and AFCPE
10:57 The importance of community empowerment
11:40 Endless possibilities within the AFC designation
13:41 Feeling at home with AFCPE
16:19 The power of community with the AFCPE member exchange
17:06 Lynne's 2 cents
18:14 Lynne's MilMoneyCon presentation in April

Show Note Links:

See Lynne speak at MilMoneyCon this April

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Shake Off Financial Stress: Real-Life Money Smarts with Amanda Christensen

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Are you ready for it?

Join hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson for an engaging episode featuring special guest Amanda Christensen, AFC, Extension Professor at Utah State University, and Founder of Utah Money Moms. In our latest episode, Amanda shares her passion for empowering women on their financial wellness journey and reminds us how cultivating community can inspire women to take control of their financial futures. You'll learn how to engage with your local cooperative extension, the power of PowerPay, and how the AFC has been so valuable to the work of a financial educator. Amanda is on a mission to transform lives with real-life money smarts.

Show Notes:
03:04 What led Amanda to the world of extension
06:46 Amanda's secret weapon to debt elimination
09:29 Shaking off financial stress resources
11:04 The Power Pay Money Master Course community
11:53 An inside look into Empowering Financial Wellness statewide program
13:36 Diving into Utah Money Moms
18:01 Amanda's journey to the AFC
20:31 The path to the extension world
22:49 Amanda's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Power Pay

Power Pay Money Master Online Course

Finance Extension

Empowering Financial Wellness Program

Utah State Extension Resources

Find your state's extension office

Utah Money Moms Instagram

Utah Money Moms

Utah State University

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Authenticity Unleashed: Embracing Your Superpower with Amy Smith

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0500

Join hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson in a captivating conversation with special guest Amy Smith, AFC, Founder of My BPD, My Money, and Member Engagement Coordinator for AFCPE. In this enlightening episode, Amy shares her inspiring journey to achieving the AFC certification, emphasizing the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity. Discover how embracing her true self opened doors to countless opportunities, and learn invaluable insights on leveraging personal strengths for positive impact. Tune in for a dose of motivation and wisdom that will empower you to unlock your own potential and thrive.

Show Notes:
02:06 Amy's journey to the AFC
03:08 Diving into her military background
04:16 What led Amy to AFCPE
05:48 Utilizing SMART Goals to achieve her AFC certification
08:19 Building confidence to overcome imposter syndrome and test anxiety
09:54 The importance of building community within AFCPE
13:03 Diversity in careers within the AFCPE community
15:02 How embracing authenticity is your superpower
19:14 Amy's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Real Money, Real Experts Career Series (Episodes 44 – 51)

AFCPE Membership

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Unlocking the CEO Mindset: A Conversation with Tiffany Grant

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0500

"If you want to be a CEO, you have to start thinking like a CEO."

In this episode, hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson are joined by special guest Tiffany Grant, AFC and owner of Money Talk with Tiff. Tiffany, an award-winning financial literacy expert and educator, has empowered countless individuals and organizations to achieve financial success and well-being.

Join us as Tiffany reveals her personal journey to obtaining the AFC certification and how embracing the CEO mindset transformed her approach to finances and life. From insightful strategies to practical tips, this episode offers invaluable wisdom for anyone striving to elevate their thinking and achieve their goals.

Show Notes:
2:10 What led Tiffany into the world of personal finance
5:35 How she started her business
7:27 Into Tiffany's private practice
10:43 Successful techniques in working with clients
13:56 Advice for professionals in the beginning stages
17:19 How Tiffany organizes her time
24:36 Unlocking the CEO mindset
26:49 What brought her to the AFC and her current PhD studies
31:31 Tiffany's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Tiffany on:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Linkedin
Youtube
Her personal website

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

What's Next With Money with Brent Neiser, CFP®, AFC®

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0500

Brent Neiser has an incredible range of work and impact in the personal finance space. Every time we connect, we learn something new! Brent started his journey as a financial planner, but his heart for service led him to a rich career in financial education.

On this episode, we learn how the AFCPE community has impacted his career, why he believes in the value of the AFC, and why he calls himself "Mr. Horizontal" - hint: it has to do with his curiosity and passion for a breadth of knowledge.

Brent talks about his appointment as the Chair of the CFPB Advisory Board - a role in which he served three terms, including during the 2020 pandemic. And we learn all about his latest venture, "What's Next With Money" a free resource that he's excited to share with AFCPE Members.

Show Notes:

2:40 Brent's journey to personal finance
8:30 Crossing paths with AFCPE
14:00 His time as Chair with Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Board
18:05 What's next with money?
23:14 Brent's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WhatsNextwithMoney

Website: https://whatsnextwithmoney.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentneiser/

Social Media: @brentneiser

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

There is No "One Way" to do Personal Finance with Markia Brown, AFC

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0500

Markia Brown is an award-winning financial educator and content creator, an Accredited Financial Counselor, and an AFCPE member with a talent for making complex financial topics accessible, particularly to younger generations.

Her mission focuses on uplifting underserved communities and offering them vital tools and education to achieve their definition of financial success. She believes that its not just about bridging gaps, but reshaping financial narratives for the better.

On this episode, Markia shares her unique story, what led her to AFCPE, and the impact the AFC has made on her and on those she serves. From a commitment to share 365 days of credit tips to more than 1 million social media followers, we talk about the highs and lows of social influence, the importance of "trust, but verify", and how personal finance looks different for everyone - there are no absolutes.

Show Notes:
2:10 What led Markia to her work
6:14 How she got big on TikTok
9:43 Highs and lows of social media content creation
14:08 Establishing authority in a world of misinformation
16:22 Markia's journey to the AFC
19:02 How the AFC enhanced what she already knew about money
20:37 Markia's final 2 cents

Website: https://www.themoneyplug.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themoneyplug/

Social Media: @TheMoneyPlug

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From the Vault: Michael Thomas on Empathy

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:00:00 -0500

Every December, Real Money, Real Experts takes a break to prepare for the year ahead. As we head into the busy holiday season, we're happy to re-share a fan favorite - our episode on empathy and the art of listening with Dr. Michael Thomas, AFC.

Enjoy and happy holidays from Rachael, Mary, and the entire podcast crew!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Find Your People with Andi Wrenn, AFC®

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0500

This week, Real Money, Real Experts, was live on YouTube with AFCPE Board President, Andi Wrenn. Andi, Mary, and Rachael recap all things 2023 AFCPE Symposium. If you joined us for Symposium this year, come reminisce with us. If you didn't attend this year, tune in to learn what its all about. We also get to learn more about Andi's professional journey, and she shares two times the two cents!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Building a Collaborative Practice Model with Nathan Astle

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0500

This week we welcome financial therapist, Nathan Astle, to the show. Nate is the founder of the Financial Therapy Clinical Institute, which is a collaborative practice that includes financial counselors, therapists, and planners working together to meet the needs of their clients.

On this episode, Nate shares what inspired this unique practice model, the roles that each practitioner plays in the practice, the fee structure they've adopted to ensure the practice is profitable but also affordable to clients, and how they are using research to measure emotional, financial, and relational change.

Nate is a humble trailblazer with a heart for helping people. His practice is unique, but his hope is that more financial professionals will follow. Trust us, it's an episode you don't want to miss.

Show Notes:
1:14 How Nathan got involved in financial therapy... by accident!
3:02 His biggest influences
4:18 Mental health and finances
10:51 Client testimony around financial anxiety
15:01 How Nathan got started on the business side
19:59 Nathan's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Financial Therapy Clerical Institute website

Connect on Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Recognizing the Value of Cultural Competency with Lazetta Braxton

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:00:00 -0500

Lazetta Braxton, MBA, CFP® is on a mission to create wealth for the common good. She believes in fighting for voices that have not been heard, and has built her career around making room for underserved and overlooked populations.

In this episode, we get to know Lazetta - her family history and her career path, and she shares a preview of the conversation we'll be having as part of her keynote presentation at this year's Symposium. We talk about the importance of cultural competency, understanding the experiences and backgrounds of our clients, and the importance of building capacity directly within underserved communities. Words of wisdom: Be courageous as you are carefully doing the work.

Show Notes:
2:00 How Lazetta got started in financial planning
4:02 More into her exploratory and entrepreneurial path
8:46 Moving around and balancing her career
12:31 Expanding access to more equitable opportunities
15:52 What to expect from her keynote
19:13 Lazetta's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Writer Contributor Pages

#DoingTheWork Leadership Masterclass

Connect with her on Linkedin or with her company

Follow on Instagram or Twitter or Facebook

Register for Symposium: www.afcpe.org/symposium

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Facets of Consumer Protection with John McNamara, CFPB

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0400

Today’s guest is John McNamara, Principal Assistant Director of Consumer Credit, Payments, and Deposits Markets at the CFPB. In this episode, John shares his professional journey from debt collection to his current role at the CFPB. He talks to us about the latest research from the Bureau, and gives us some of his favorite CFPB resources - designed to support you and your clients.

We’re excited to have John join us on the main stage later this year. To hear more, we hope you’ll join us in NOLA or virtually: https://www.afcpe.org/symposium/

Show Notes:
1:41 Into John's personal and professional journey
9:08 Recent findings from CFPB
14:25 CFPB and FTC collaborations
16:33 Resources for financial counselors and consumers
17:42 John's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Ask CFPB questions
Direct contact information with CFPB

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Art of Storytelling and Story Listening with Dr. Preston Cherry

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0400

Dr. Preston Cherry, AFC®, CFP®, CFT-1 is the Founder & President of Concurrent Financial Planning, the Head of the University of Wisconsin Green Bay Financial Planning Program, and also a keynote speaker at this year's AFCPE Symposium. Preston is passionate about the ways that storytelling and listening can help us better connect with clients, advance human lives, and inspire transformation.

In this episode, Preston shares the influence of stories in his own life and how they have shaped his journey. We take a look at the ways stories can increase engagement and build trust. And we talk about mentors and opportunities to build yourself as a professional and deepen your human experience.

This conversation was a fun one! Tell us what you think by engaging with us on social media, and make sure you're registered for the 2023 AFCPE Symposium!

Show Notes:

2:25 How Preston got to where he is now
6:10 How he uses storytelling with his clients
9:04 How to actually go about creating stories
9:48 Unpacking counter transfer
12:15 Increasing connection with the client without decentering them
14:45 Advice for AFCs and balancing empathy and vulnerability
17:41 The importance of practice
19:19 How to incorporate valuable lessons with students
22:14 Preston's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

@drprestoncherry on all social media platforms
YouTube

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Financial Trauma with Rahkim Sabree

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 14:00:00 -0400

On today's episode we talk to AFC candidate, Rahkim Sabree, a financial coach, entrepreneur, and thought leader on the topic of financial trauma. We discuss how personal background, cultural experiences, and mental health all play a role in personal finance, and how financial professionals can add a trauma-informed lens to your work with clients.

With the rise of one-size-fits-all, and often inaccurate, personal finance information being shared on social media, Rahkim shares how his perspective around credentialing has shifted and how he's been able to apply what he's learned through the AFC program.

We also talk about lessons learned through entrepreneurship, the danger of comparison (we're looking at you social media), and the value of community and kindness.

Show Notes:
1:29 Rahkim's professional journey
7:16 The term financial trauma
13:01 Using your own trauma as a way to bond with clients and others
22:17 How finance professionals can use a trauma-informed lens
30:24 Battling imposter syndrome
37:59 Rahkim's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

RahkimSabree.com
Join his community at moneysystems.substack.com
His work as a Forbes contributor
Post-traumatic slave syndrome

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Building Accessible Financial Education with Penny Forward

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 14:00:00 -0400

“Whether someone wants to be independent with their finances is their absolute decision…but what I don’t want that decision to be based around is the fact that someone cannot see anymore…I want to help [people] realize that there are options.” - Liz Bottner

On this week’s episode, we get to know Chris Peterson and Liz Bottner of Penny Forward. Penny Forward is a non-profit organization that offers accessible financial wellness education and counseling programs for people who are blind or disabled. Chris started the organization in 2020, and together with Liz they are “boldly and bravely” breaking down barriers to financial counseling and education.

Chris and Liz share some of the ways managing personal finances is unique to someone who is blind or low-vision. They also remind us that, with all clients, it’s important to get to know each client individually - their needs, goals and aspirations. Learn how Penny Forward can be a resource to you, and the ways you can get involved and support their mission.

Show Notes:
1:27 Chris & LIz's journey into this space
4:06 From teaching to starting Penny Forward
9:00 Liz's background and being cohost
12:57 Personal finance and the blind community
18:30 Advice for professionals wanting to be more accessible
22:28 How can people get involved with Penny Forward
26:49 Chris & Liz's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

PennyForward Summit
PennyForward Website
Connect with PennyForward on
Clubhouse
PennyForward Podcast
Interested in volunteering? Email pennyforward@pennyforward.com

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Student Loan Repayment: What you need to know with Ryan Law, AFC®,CFP®

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0400

With the student loan pause coming to an end and a new repayment plan announced, we wanted to answer your questions. And who better to help us break down the new Student Loan SAVE plan than Ryan Law.

Ryan H. Law is an award-winning educator who teaches in the Personal Financial Planning program at Utah Valley University. He’s a Certified Financial Planner, an Accredited Financial Counselor®, past President of the AFCPE Board of Directors, and also a leading expert in student loans.

In today's episode we discuss the benefits of the SAVE plan, how financial professionals can support their clients during this time, and 5 things we need to do now.

Show Notes:
1:41 Why repayments may return
2:24 The current student loan landscape
6:45 How to best support your clients with these changes
8:27 Who is best suited for the SAVE loans
9:24 Borrowers and calling their providers
10:47 Ryan's recommended payment calculators
11:03 Benefits to switching to SAVE plan
11:52 Interest accumulation & rollover
13:26 Other elements of this plan to be aware of
13:59 Student loan forgiveness
14:43 The PSLF program
16:12 Budgeting for payments again
19:09 Other resources to look for
24:30 Ryan's 2 cents for clients

Show Note Links:
Studentaid.gov
https://ryanhlaw.com/student-loan-save-plan/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Changing the Face of Financial Education with Sarah Newcomb

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Sarah Newcomb is an applied scientist, behavioral economist, and the Founder of the Thrive Financial Empowerment Center. Her work bridges the gap between research and practice, adapting the findings of academic research for practical use in personal financial management.

In this episode, Sarah shares her own personal story and how it led to her current work - exploring the connection between mental and financial health, particularly among our youth. We discuss the need for empowerment-based and trauma-informed financial education and how understanding the psychology behind behaviors leads to both understanding and empathy. And she shares some practical insights on the things financial counselors, coaches, and advisors can do to give their clients agency.

Show Notes:
1:22 Sarah's money story
7:14 Utilizing academic findings for practical use
9:39 Young people and their mental + financial health
14:45 Empowerment-based financial education
23:58 Moving away from the contamination narrative to a redemptive one (and what that means)
27:47 Sarah's new financial empowerment content
30:28 Sarah's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Statistics:

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Helping Women Navigate Divorce with Rhonda Noordyk

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Rhonda Noordyk, founded The Women's Financial Wellness Center in 2014. Her mission is to help reduce financial vulnerability for women going through divorce.

In this episode, Rhonda talks to us about the challenges women face when going through divorce, the financial considerations, and the importance of having a support team to provide legal, financial, and emotional support.

As an advocate for women, Rhonda believes that knowledge plus experience equals confidence, and she understands the value of trauma-informed care. This episode provides great insights and resources to help you or your clients navigate divorce.

Show Notes:
2:06 Rhonda's journey into the divorce space
4:29 Building her own business
10:50 Her experience with divorce and founding the women's center
14:50 The big challenges for women
20:19 Lack of confidence around finances
27:49 Best methods for women when they're going through a divorce
37:57 Rhonda's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect on Instagram| Facebook| Linkedin
Divorce Conversations for Women Podcast
Your Bridge from Divorce Crisis to Closure
Divorce Resource Guide
Quiz
Join Rhonda for our upcoming webinar:
- FPA Connect: A Behind the Scenes Look at Divorce: 3 ways you can help your clients: - August 17 at 12 PM ET

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Expanding Your Impact: Volunteering in the Nonprofit Space with Kimberly Henne

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0400

Kimberly Henne is a board member and financial wellness coach for a local nonprofit, Ways for Life, an organization that works with youth aged 15 - 25 who are touched by foster care or homelessness.

In this episode we learn more about Kimberly's personal journey with the foster care system - she adopted both of her children out of foster care - as well as some of the unique challenges facing foster youth. We also discuss the opportunity for AFC professionals to marry their skills and passions to serve local nonprofit organizations that have a critical need for high-quality financial counseling and education.

Show Notes:
2:17 How Kimberly discovered the AFC and the military spouse fellowship
3:41 Her transition from the military to the Red Cross
5:04 Into foster care and adopting her children
6:15 Financial counseling in the foster care system
6:57 How she got involved with volunteering
9:16 What are the needs of youth in the foster care system?
12:27 Aging out of the foster care system
and how to help
14:11 Tracking outcomes and effects of education
15:35 How her experience benefit her in the military community
16:29 Advice for other AFC professionals breaking into the nonprofit
17:29 Kimberly's 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Ways for Life
Kimberly’s LinkedIn
Post a volunteer opportunity for AFC candidates

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Understanding Human Behavior with Jonathan Walker

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:00:00 -0400

Today’s guest, Jonathan Walker, has spent much of his career studying American households - to better understand human behavior and figure out how to create environments where people can succeed and thrive. Jonathan is a practitioner who understands the value of research and how these findings can be translated into practice.

In this episode, Jonathan shares the three big components to how people function in their finances - numbers, behavior, and values. We discuss the importance of providing information that isn’t anchored in bias or judgment, and explore how values play a critical role in our financial lives.

Show Notes:
2:27 Into Jonathan's background
4:34 The industries he comes from
7:04 Importance of listening & sharing
10:40 Advice for fellow practitioners
17:28 Into Jonathan's tool for helping people identify their financial values
22:29 Tools available to practitioners working with clients
23:59 Why academia must inform practice
28:23 The need for his book
30:31 More about The Yukon Project
32:56 Jonathan's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Money Mindfulness
Jonathan’s website
Jonathan’s book: "Anchors, Ostriches, and a Hot Pair of Scissors: Navigating Human Behavior as a Financial Professional" can be found here.
YouTube Video of “Anchors, Ostriches, and a Hot Pair of Scissors”
The Financial Behavior Keynote Group
The Center for the New Middle Class
Jonathan’s values-identification tool
The Yukon Project website and YouTube

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Listening for Readiness with Dr. Erika Rasure

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0400

"The greatest gift we can give our clients is providing that space where they can find the presence of the feeling that they are not alone.”

Today’s guest, Dr. Erika Rasure, is a financial therapist and deep transformational coach; the Chair of the Research Board for the Financial Therapy Clinical Institute; and a Client Financial Therapist for Beyond Finance.

In this episode, we discuss the biases that exist within the industry; how money stories and very human decisions are too often surrounded by embarrassment or shame; and the importance of helping people move through financial trauma.

Show Notes:
3:07 Erika's journey into personal finance
5:17 Being a deep transformational coach
7:19 Political science to therapy
8:50 Working with Beyond Finance
12:00 A story that has resonated with Erika
15:32 Meeting people where they are
17:26 How counselors utilize therapy without becoming a therapist
21:21 Erika's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Connect with Erika on LinkedIn

Today’s episode is sponsored by Beyond Finance, whose mission is to help individuals and families struggling with debt find a pathway to financial freedom.

Beyond Finance is currently hiring Accredited Financial Counselors to provide clients with one-on-one virtual financial counseling sessions in areas of budgeting, credit building, and creating a values-driven action plan. Positions are remote and offer flexible schedules. To learn more, visit careercenter.afcpe.org.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Measuring Client Impact with Michael Kothakota, PhD, CFP®, AFC®

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Our guest today, Michael Kothakota is the head of research at the CFP Board. In this episode, we learn about Michael’s path into financial services, and how the AFC curriculum - on the way to becoming a planner - helped broaden his perspective and enabled him to better support clients.

We discuss how critical it is for financial professionals to be able to effectively connect solutions to human needs, and the importance of relational skills and building trust with our clients. We also get a glimpse into the early stages of CFP Board’s client impact study and are reminded how important it is not to build a profession on anecdotes.

Show Notes:
1:56 Mike's journey into financial planning and research
5:56 Building an integrated continuum of personal finance
9:12 CFB board's addition of financial psychology
13:16 Into his role as research director
17:45 Metrics around financial behavior
19:43 The importance of research in the finance industry
23:17 Advice for students or career changers into financial planning
26:18 Mike's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

CFP Board Research and Resources

Wealth Bridge Wealth

Connect on Linkedin

JFCP Research Journal & AFCPE Research resources

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Pursuing Big Goals with Olympic Athlete & Financial Coach, Keturah Orji

Tue, 23 May 2023 11:00:00 -0400

"Don't let fear and hesitation hold you back."

This week's guest is two-time Olympian and financial coach, Keturah Orji (“K.O.”). Keturah is a decorated Track and Field athlete, who is balancing the pursuit of her athletic dreams with studying for the AFC and building a financial coaching practice.

Keturah is as authentic as she is driven. We talk about why she became a financial coach, what led her to the AFC, and how she finds balance. She shares advice for other AFC candidates and entrepreneurs. And we get to learn about her big 3 philosophy, the starting point she gives all of her clients, no matter where they are in their financial journey.

If you have big goals, or are balancing multiple priorities (aren't we all?), then this episode is for you.

Show Notes:

2:00 What led Keturah to pursue financial planning
3:52 Balancing athletic and career aspirations
7:59 Balancing training, work, and life
8:55 Training for the 2024 Olympics
11:01 How traveling has helped influence her teachings
11:58 "KO's Big Three"
13:17 Some of Keturah's challenges
15:39 Applying her athletic lessons to finance
17:10 Tips for those also trying to reach goals
19:52 Keturah's final two cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Keturah on

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Technology, Authenticity, and Behavioral Finance with Daniel Crosby

Tue, 09 May 2023 10:00:00 -0400

This week on "Real Money, Real Experts", Rachael and Mary sit down with psychologist and behavioral finance expert, Daniel Crosby. This conversation was a fun one, covering everything from epic failures to Chat GPT to the power of authenticity - which starts with doing the hard internal work on ourselves.

Daniel reminds us that technology is our friend, shares some great book and podcast recommendations, and offers words of wisdom from his father that we can all benefit from remembering.

Show Notes:

1:25 Daniel's journey into this field
3:45 How the transition into this space worked
7:54 One failure Daniel has experienced
10:11 One success Daniel has experienced
11:35 His journey as an author
15:33 Advice for building engagement with clients
17:39 How technology may affect or drive financial services in the future
21:32 Top books Daniel recommends
23:03 Daniel's final 2 cents
24:27 How listeners can connect with him

Show Note Links:

Connect with Daniel on Linkedin or Twitter
Daniel's books:
- The Behavioral Investor
- The Laws of Wealth
Orion Advisor Technology
Brad Klontz, Ted Klontz, & Charles Chaffin - The Pyschology of Financial Planning for Practitioners
Richard Shotton - The Choice Factory
Standard Deviations podcast
Jen Clinehens - Choice Hacking Podcast

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Bringing the Arts to Financial Education with Julie Beckham, AFC®

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0400

Today’s guest believes that personal finance is a topic to sing and dance about! Julie Beckham, AFC® has taken her passion and turned it into a career, marrying her love for the arts with financial education. Her musical, Ms. Money and the Coins, has been shared with more than 80,000 elementary-age students in Massachusetts and is now available nationwide as an online learning platform - in both English and Spanish.

In addition to all things K-12 financial education, we also discuss the amazing opportunity that banks have to help bridge financial education from youth to adulthood; and the value of having more AFC professionals working in banks and community-based organizations.

Show Notes:

1:57 How she paired her love for finance and arts into a successful career
4:27 More about her upcoming musical
5:50 How others who are interested in putting this on can access it
6:39 Advice for other aspiring podcast creators
8:28 Julie's current financial education efforts in the banking space
10:55 How more banks can invest in an AFC education for their employees
14:21 More into how Julie values the AFC
15:47 Advice towards others trying to bridge gaps in financial education and literacy
18:55 Julie's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Rockland Trust on:

Connect with Julie on LinkedIn

Ms. Money's Classroom

No Shame in this Money Game's Mini Money Minutes

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Keeping Personal Finance Personal with America Saves’ Kia McCallister-Young, AFC®

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Our guest this week is Kia McCallister-Young, AFC, Director of America Saves. With a background in marketing and communications, Kia knows how to create a compelling message that moves people to action. And it’s a skill she uses often in her work at America Saves.

Today Kia shares some of these tips and strategies, and gets us up-to-speed on all the America Saves campaigns (including this month’s Military Saves Week, America Saves at Work, America Saves for Young Workers, and launching this month - Veterans Saves!)

America Saves provides relatable, down-to-earth personal finance strategies that are easy to implement and make sense for your life - and Kia is as relatable as they come. It’s an open, authentic episode you don’t want to miss.

Show Notes:
1:34 What is America Saves?
2:47 How campaigns help leverage personal values
4:58 How Kia made it to her position today
6:43 What is Military Saves?
8:37 How to become more involved
11:15 Into the Workplace Savers program
13:33 How the AFC® has helped Kia's work
16:19 Growing your social media presence
18:08 Kia's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
America Saves
Military Saves
America Saves at Work
America Saves for Young Workers

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

All Things Student Loans with Heather Jarvis

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:00:00 -0400

Heather Jarvis is an attorney and a nationally recognized expert specializing in student loan law. As a first-generation college student, Heather got her start in the nonprofit space and was an early advocate for policy change.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into all thing student loans - from forgiveness to bankruptcy to changes in trends, regulations, and legislation. A must-listen for anyone who is helping individuals and families navigate student loans.

Show Notes:
1:26 How Heather got into this industry
3:24 Intro to student loan forgiveness and student debt cancellation
6:19 Different types of forgiveness
8:35 Transfer their public loans to a private loan
10:04 Student loans and bankruptcy packages
11:32 Advice & resources for those who want to learn more in this area
14:38 Inside Heather's business model
18:07 What is going to change in the student loan space in the next few years?
22:07 Inside the complicated marketplace
24:01 Heather's outlook on what will move forward in a divided congress
28:56 Heather's final 2 cents

Show Note Links
Student Aid
CSLA Institute
Ask Heather Jarvis
Email Heather

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

How a Fellowship Built Career and Community with Dr. Cherie Stueve, CFP®, AFC®, FFC®, FBS®

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0400

“If you want to belong, there is a place for you.”

Our guest this week is Dr. Cherie Stueve, an AFC, a military spouse, and a self-described consummate learner. Cherie shares her journey from farm life to spouse life, the money lessons she learned along the way, and why she is such a strong advocate for the AFC designation.

We learn about her journey to the FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship, and how it served as not only the foundation for her career but how it led to life-long friendships and community.

Show Notes:
3:26 Cherie's early lessons in money
7:53 How she discovered the military spouse fellowship for the AFC
12:21 Being a continual learner
14:09 Advice for AFCs or those considering
19:06 Advice for newcomers to the personal finance space
25:46 Cherie's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
How to Find Work You Love and Make a Difference
Connect with Cherie on Linkedin

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Journey of Podcasting with Chris Browning of Popcorn Finance

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0500

This week we sit down with Chris Browning, the creator and host of the award-winning, short-form podcast Popcorn Finance. Chris is an OG in the personal finance podcast space with more than 350+ episodes that cover popular finance topics in about the time it takes to make a bag of popcorn.

In this episode, we dive into his start as a podcaster (spoiler, it literally started from the front seat of his car!) his business model, and how he keeps his content new and fresh. Chris is down-to-earth, humble, and full of wisdom for those wanting to get into the podcast space.

Show Notes:
2:30 How he got into the world of finance and podcasting
4:08 Podcasting as his full-time role
6:42 How Chris found his niche
8:56 The slow journey of podcasting
11:40 Into his business model
14:35 Mentors and help along the way
16:23 How Chris continues to generate content
18:14 Being an "Influencer"
20:11 Balancing his strengths and personality traits for business
22:50 Chris's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

@PopcornFinancePodcast on Instagram

Connect on LinkedIn

Follow on TikTok and Twitter

https://popcornfinance.com/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Marriage, Kids, and Money with Andy Hill

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0500

Andy Hill, AFC® candidate, is the award-winning family finance coach behind Marriage, Kids, and Money - a platform dedicated to helping young families build wealth and happiness. Andy believes that money is a tool that helps you move toward the life you want to have, and is on a personal mission to help more people get there.

In this episode, we learn more about Andy's business model, the importance of balance, and what it means to be an influencer. We also touch on destigmatizing talking about money, and the creative ways Andy brings his own kids into the conversation.

Show Notes:
1:27 How Andy got started
3:21 Andy's family business
4:39 Tips for other entrepreneurs
6:06 How he has set up his business model
7:59 Who helped Andy along the way
10:44 Teaching his kids about money
15:14 What is Coast Fire?
21:23 Andy's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Part-Time Work by 40
Coast Fire, Millionaire Family in their 30's
Make My Kid a Millionaire Course (To come in March)
Marriage Kids & Money Podcast:
IG: @marriagekidsandmoney
Connect with Andy on LinkedIn

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Helping People Thrive: Employee Financial Wellness with Meghan Lape, AFC®

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500

Show Notes:
2:22 What led Meghan to financial counseling
5:15 Inside Meghan's business model
6:36 How she serves her clients
7:25 The setup of her business
8:53 Advice for approaching employers without a financial wellness program
10:57 How to best network with businesses
13:26 Advice for other counselors interested in this work
15:35 Meghan's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Meghan on Linkedin and her company
CIF Financial Planning
Financial Health Network Studies
PolkaDot Powerhouse
AFCPE Community: Join Membership
FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship: Applications open March 1!

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, our hosts sit down with Meghan Lape, AFC®, CFP®, EA®, the founder of Conscious Impact Financial Planning, a financial wellness and socially responsible investment firm.

Meghan recognizes that all too often, the people who need financial services the most also cannot afford them. Her solution? Engaging with employers to better meet people where they are. As an AFC, Meghan is a fierce advocate for financial wellness programs in the workplace, and believes in a people-first approach. On this episode, she takes us through her business model, shares how’s she’s building a network within her local community, and offers honest words of advice and encouragement for other entrepreneurs.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Building a More Integrated Financial Planning Field with Sasha Grabenstetter, AFC®

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500

This week we are excited to welcome Sasha Grabenstetter to the show! Sasha is a new AFCPE Board Member and the Financial Planning Education Consultant at eMoney Advisor who shares AFCPE's passion for creating a more integrated field that better serves all individuals and families.

In this episode, we discuss the benefits of building financial planning practices that offer wrap-around services and talk about the value in building strong referral partnerships between counselors, coaches, and planners. Sasha is a gifted educator with infectious energy, making this a must-listen episode!

Show Notes:
1:36 Why AFCPE and the AFC®?
6:05 What is eMoney?
7:33 Into Sasha's work with eMoney
9:26 How the CFP and AFC complement each other
11:46 Financial planning firms & the ever-changing landscape
16:07 More into referral partnerships and the AFC
21:41 Sasha's advice for connecting to audiences as a podcaster
23:22 Sasha's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
eMoney Advisor
Apple Seed Program
Connect with Sasha on LinkedIn
Heart of Advice blog

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Start Where You Are with Jean Chatzky of @HerMoneyMedia

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500

We’re kicking off 2023 with award-winning journalist and the founder and CEO of HerMoney Media, Jean Chatzky!

In this episode, Jean shares her journey into journalism and personal finance and discusses the importance of building camaraderie and accountability when talking about money. We learn more about her coaching programs FinanceFixx and InvestingFixx and why she values the AFC. Jean leaves us with great advice that is applicable to personal finance but also for any goals you may be setting in the new year!

Show Notes:
1:38 How Jean got started
8:12 Jean's PBS show: Opportunity Knocks
8:59 Why she recommends the AFC
11:15 FinanceFixx and InvestingFixx
15:14 Suggestions for women getting started with organizing their finances
19:01 Jean's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Follow @JeanChatzky and @HerMoneyMedia
Jean is hiring part-time coaches! Send her an email or connect at jean@hermoney.com
Finance Fixx
Her Money
Investing Fixx
Opportunity Knocks
Opportunity Finders

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Wrapping up 2022: Where We've Been, and Where We're Going

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0500

In the final episode of this season, Mary and Rachael are joined by AFCPE’s Board President, Michele Godfrey, AFC®. Two weeks ago, we kicked off the 2022 AFCPE Symposium with a trip down memory lane – celebrating where we’ve been and where we’re going as we wrap up celebrations for the #30YearsofAFC.

In this episode, we’ll recap some of the highlights from our opening general session, answer your questions about the organization, and share our favorite moments from #AFCPE2022.

This episode was live-streamed on Youtube on November 22nd, 2022.

Transcript and Show Notes:
1:08 Why focus on the past, present, and future?
4:31 What's happening in the world of certification and education
10:03 What groups live within the profession?
14:18 What can someone get out of membership?
24:43 What's next with the AFCPE Pro Bono Program?
27:54 Thoughts for those wanting to get into private practice
32:28 Outgoing remarks from Board President Michele

Show Note Links:
Annual Report
Download Symposium Recordings

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Working Towards a More Inclusive, Equitable Market with Keynote Speakers Ritta McLaughlin & Olivia Valdes

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 12:00:00 -0500

This week, we're speaking with joint #AFCPE2022 keynote speakers from the FINRA foundation: Ritta McLaughlin, the Director of Investor Education Community Outreach & Olivia Valdes, Senior Research Analyst. In this episode, we dive into trends across multiple areas of the market such as the idea of intergenerational wealth and its contribution to massive wealth gaps, and the importance of truly understanding the nuances of the populations we study.

Tune in for more impactful, data-driven takeaways from the FINRA National Financial Capability study and listen to the full presentation at #AFCPE2022--register to attend virtually today!

Show Notes:
2:20 Into the FINRA National Financial Capability Study
14:53 Market participation across race and ethnicity
18:16 Gender investing trends
19:53 How can we impact this challenge and become a more inclusive market?
31:18 Fun facts!
34:56 Ritta and Olivia's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with FINRA on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook,or Contact
2021 NFCS Report
Bridging the Divide
Interact with the Data

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Need for a Revolution of Compassion with Keynote Speaker Jason Craige Harris

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 12:00:00 -0400

In this week’s episode, we sit with Jason Craige Harris, a voice for healing and transformation who works across communities and organizations to promote dignity, belonging, and compassion. Jason is also one of our keynote speakers at the 2022 AFCPE Symposium this November.

Jason takes us through the importance of building genuine empathy with others and the need for a Revolution of Compassion. Learn more about what that looks like by tuning in, and attending Jason’s full presentation at #AFCPE2022. Register today!

Show Notes:
2:50 How Jason got into this work
7:27 When Jason knew he wanted to make change
10:34 His keynote topic and how it will relate to AFCPE professionals
15:29 Strategies for being less judgmental and more empathetic
18:24 Jason’s final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

$avvy: Women. Money. Freedom. with Robin Hauser

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 11:00:00 -0400

In this week’s episode, we get to know Robin Hauser: an award-winning documentary filmmaker and a keynote speaker at the 2022 AFCPE Symposium. Her film, $avvy, was inspired by her own personal experience with money. It led her to wonder, why do women tend to abdicate major financial decisions to someone else (often the man in their life)? And why is that so dangerous?

Our hosts and Robin talk about the power of storytelling and its ability to eliminate shame and increase empathy. We also address the subtle microaggressions that women face even today, and how we can ensure that women feel included in the personal finance space. Tune in, and don't miss the screening at #AFCPE2022 by registering to attend today.

Show Notes:
1:58 How Robin got into documentary filmmaking
4:40 What to expect during Robin's session
6:30 How counselors can utilize video to spread their impact
8:55 What is the likability dilemma
11:39 Increasing women in a male-dominated industry
15:31 Robin's 2 cents

Show Note Links:

$avvy documentary
Robin's Ted Talk: Likability Dilemma
UBS Study that Robin referenced regarding women believing men know more about money
Robin's Website
McKinsey study about the transfer of wealth from men to women

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Being Change Agents and the Current State of Student Loans with Keynote Speaker Ryan Law, CFP®, AFC®

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 13:00:00 -0400

Download the transcript here.

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we're back with Ryan Law, CFP®, AFC®, a recognized expert in client communication, student loans, financial counseling, and behavior change. He recently served as President of AFCPE, and in 2021 Ryan received the AFCPE Distinguished Fellow Award!

In this episode, Ryan takes us through the current state of federal student loans and what to anticipate in the coming months given the recent updates. He also shares a sneak peek of what to expect for his keynote presentation this November and provides practical advice for being change agents in our own lives. Tune in to Ryan's episode for great insights, and secure your ticket to symposium today to catch his full presentation at #AFCPE2022!

Show Notes:
1:40 Sneak peek of Ryan's symposium keynote presentation
9:19 What to know right now for student loans
13:09 When might payments restart?
14:06 What about direct or FFEL loans?
15:06 Why Ryan chose to pursue his AFC®
17:19 His first symposium experience
18:04 What he most looks forward to at #AFCPE2022
19:42 Ryan's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Ryan's Website and Blog
Student Aid
Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Ryan's Financial Behavior Keynote Group
Student Debt Relief Plan Explained
Register for Symposium! The early Bird deadline ends September 30th.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Founding of AFCPE® and Looking to the Future with Bill Gustafson

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 14:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, our hosts speak with Bill Gustafson, who is a professor emeritus in the Personal Financial Planning Department at Texas Tech University. He has been educating students and conducting research related to personal finance for over 36 years and helped to create what we now know as the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education.

Bill takes us back to the very first meeting where AFCPE® was named and dives into the importance of recognizing the human side of finance vs. the business side, and how to best bridge the two in your work. In this episode, we are reminded of the importance of telling the stories about the people that make a difference along the way, and documenting it for future generations to come. Tune in for an inspiring episode into Bill's broad perspective of the finance profession as a whole.

Throughout his career he has been honored with Texas Tech’s President's Excellence in Teaching Award; the College of Human Sciences Helen Burleson Service Award; and the Department of Personal Financial Planning Visionary Award

Show notes:
2:01 Bill's start in the field
3:42 How he got connected to the financial counseling world
5:02 Bill and Dr. Jerry Mason
8:52 College of Human Sciences and its importance in finance
13:23 Diving into the archives project
15:45 Bill's final 2 cents

Show note links:
Texas Tech’s School of Financial Planning
Southwest Collections at TTU
Register for Symposium!
Email Bill

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

The Power of Mentorship and Capturing the Voices of Counseling with Dr. Dottie Durband, AFC®

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 16:00:00 -0400

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we are joined by Dorothy "Dottie" Durband, who is known to many as the "Godmother of Financial Counseling." Dottie is the associate dean for academics and faculty and a professor of personal financial planning in the College of Human Sciences at Texas Tech University. She's been an Accredited Financial Counselor for over 20 years and is an esteemed member and mentor in both the AFCPE community and the field of finance as a whole.

In our 60th episode, Dottie shares her greatest takeaways from the field of personal finance as a whole, including great insights into how she pioneered one of the first major student financial literacy initiatives at Texas Tech titled 'Red to Black'. Dottie and Mary also chat about The Financial Counseling Archives Project that is currently underway, and how the most influential voices of the finance sector are getting to have their stories told. Tune in for a conversation that'll leave you feeling inspired!

Show notes:

2:02 How she began her career in personal finance
3:24 Consumer Credit Counseling Service
4:43 Dottie's student financial literacy initiative @ Texas Tech
6:49 How does this program help?
8:15 How its inspired other programs
9:11 Mentorship advice
11:10 Dottie's advice for those entering the finance space
12:27 The Financial Counseling Archives Project
16:21 What Dottie would tell someone who's considering becoming an AFC
18:05 Advising and guiding students
22:39 Dottie's final 2 cents

Show Note Links

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Empathy and the Art of Listening with Dr. Michael G. Thomas, Jr.

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 14:00:00 -0400

This week on Real Money, Real Experts we catch up with Dr. Michael G. Thomas, Jr., AFC®. Michael is a lecturer at the University of Georgia, the founder of Modom Financial Solutions, a co-founder of the Financial Behavior Keynote Group, and a member of the AFCPE Board of Directors. Dr. Thomas’ life-long goal is to help underserved communities establish, grow, and sustain their wealth utilizing an intra and inter-family wealth creation process.

Michael is a gifted speaker, a natural educator, and a thought leader on the importance of keeping empathy, listening, and compassion at the heart of financial counseling and planning. In this episode, Michael shares how stepping into the role of learner – and really listening to our clients – can make all the difference in helping someone move forward in their financial journey.

You’ll also get a sneak peek of his new book, Black Financial Culture: Building Wealth from the Inside Out, available this year. The book is designed to empower people to take bold action, to become lifelong learners, and to understand that they have the capacity to own their financial experience.

Show Notes:
1:47 What's new with Michael
6:18 Financial empathy during COVID-19
8:13 Why empathy is critical when working in financial services
15:14 How to set the tone for your clients by building trust in your community
23:21 What we get wrong about listening
27:37 Michael shares about his upcoming book, Black Financial Culture: Building Wealth from the Inside Out
33:03 How Michael found the AFC and AFCPE
40:07 Michael shares his 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Michael’s coaching company: https://www.modomsolutions.com/

Book Michael for an event: https://keynote.financial/michael-g-thomas-jr/

Follow & Connect with Michael at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/MoneyandWellness/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ModomSolutions
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modomsolutions/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modomsolutions

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Exploring the Differences Between Financial Therapy, Counseling, and Planning with Dr. Kristy Archuleta and Dr. Sonya Lutter

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:00:00 -0400

Financial planning, financial counseling, and financial therapy are separate but complementary financial services designed to support clients' financial goals and well-being. But how do you know which service you, or your client, needs at any given moment? In this episode, we're joined by two leaders in the financial therapy space, Kristy Archuleta & Sonya Lutter.

Kristy and Sonya share their research, knowledge, and experience across financial services to help our listeners answer this question and more. We talk about creating boundaries, knowing limitations, and, most importantly, building a strong referral network in order to best serve our clients.

Show Notes:
1:48 Planning vs. counseling vs. therapy
6:34 Do you need to be certified to practice Financial Therapy?
12:41 All about dual designations
15:15 Building a strong referral network
18:31 Into their research and major findings
22:21 Where to find their research
26:09 Final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Financial Therapy Association

Become a Financial Therapist or Find a Financial Therapist

Video from Meghan Lurtz on updates for certification in financial therapy

Conference & connection with the Financial Therapy Association

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

A Deep Dive Into Student Loans and the PSLF with Rita Green, Ed.D. AFC®

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 11:00:00 -0400

This week, we're talking all about student loans with Rita Green, Ed.D. AFC®. Rita is an AFCPE board member and new author of How to Survive a Personal Financial Pandemic. In this episode, we dive straight into the Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and all of its requirements, how you may be able to take advantage of the waiver by October, and many more insights on all types of student loans.

Regardless of whether you're listening for yourself or learning more for your clientele, Rita is a natural educator who provides incredible insights into the world of loans and navigating them during this time. Take a listen, and then take action!

Show Notes:
1:38 Rita's background story
2:29 How Rita discovered the AFC® certification
4:05 What is the PSLF program?
5:20 Who is considered "public service"?
9:08 What if your loans are older and you've been paying them for a while?
11:39 Advice for recent graduates
12:56 Resources Rita can share with us
16:23 Where to go if your situation is a bit more complicated
17:25 Types of student loans
20:26 Into Rita's book and surviving a "personal financial pandemic
28:22 What the AFC® means to Rita
32:52 Rita's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Determine if your employer qualifies for PSLF
Temporary Expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness (TEPSLF) Summary of Changes
Submit a Request for PSLF Reconsideration
PSLF Help Tool
Dr. Green’s website & book
#AFCPE22 in Orlando, FL
Start earning your AFC® or become a Member!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Meeting People Where they Are with Dr. Kate Mielitz, AFC®

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This week we are joined by Dr. Kate Mielitz, AFC®. Kate joined the AFCPE staff in 2022 as the Special Programs Manager, but has been an AFC and a passionate member of the AFCPE community for many years. In this episode, Kate gives our listeners a candid look at how she got to where she is today – we love seeing how all the disparate pieces come together to create change and impact.

We talk about the importance of offering personal financial planning students the opportunity to earn the AFC, and the value of financial counseling within the personal finance space. Kate addresses the shame that oftentimes exists for people around personal finance, and reminds us of how important it is to share our stories and normalize our mistakes. As an educator, Kate is passionate about meeting people where they are, putting the person first, and teaching them to use money as a tool.

Show Notes
3:09 Kate shares her story
7:57 Kate's transition from Academia to her current role at AFCPE
9:46 Registered Education Programs and why personal finance education is critical for college students
17:21 Kate's work with incarcerated populations
20:45 The value of AFCPE Membership
24:49 Why everyone should attend the AFCPE Symposium
27:35 Kate's Final Two Cents

Show Note Links
Follow Kate on LinkedIn
Follow Kate on Twitter
Follow Kate on TikTok
Learn more about the Military Spouse Fellowship
#AFCPE22 in Orlando, FL
AFCPE Registered Education Programs
Start earning your AFC® or become a Member!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Providing Real Value in your Business with The Budget Mom, Kumiko Love, AFC®

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Download the transcript here.

On this week’s episode, Mary and Rachael had the privilege to sit down with Accredited Financial Counselor®, Kumiko Love, more widely known as The Budget Mom. Kumiko is as authentic as they come. She openly shares her own money story, what led her to start The Budget Mom, and what she’s learned along the way. We dig into imposter syndrome, the power of community, the importance of niching down (spoiler alert: one person can’t help everyone), and setting boundaries.

Miko offers excellent insights on grassroots marketing and reminds us that the secret to building a thriving business is to lead with your values. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or simply someone who is passionate about helping people with their money to improve their lives, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.

Show Notes
1:26 Kumiko's money story
6:04 How she used her journey to help others
11:30 Kumiko's big Aha! moment
15:26 When Kumiko decided to get the AFC®
20:23 Her tips for starting your own community
25:51 How she finds balance
32:56 Miko's final 2 cents

Show Note Links
TheBudgetMom.com
Kumiko's LinkedIn
My Money, My Way book
Kumiko on Good Morning America
#AFCPE22 in Orlando, FL
Start earning your AFC® or become a Member!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Military Financial Readiness and the AFC® with Mike Wood

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0400

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, Mary and Rachael catch up with longtime AFC® and AFCPE® Member, Mike Wood. Mike shares the story of how the AFC became the standard for Personal Financial Managers (PFM) on military bases across the globe.

Mike has the heart of a counselor, and we loved hearing about both the rewarding and challenging aspects of his career. As a pillar of the military personal finance community, Mike shares fond memories from past Symposiums, and offers some great insight for financial counselors working in all areas of our field. “Enjoy the ride!”

Show Notes:
1:33 What led Mike to initially pursuing the AFC
5:28 How the military became involved in deciding to require AFCs
9:31 What does the AFC do differently than other designations?
10:58 Mike's most exciting memories in the personal finance field
13:31 The challenges Mike faced
16:20 Mike's advice with setting realistic expectations about your career
23:52 Mike's final 2 cents

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Key Takeaways from CFPB's Financial Coaching Initiative with Pam Fraser, AFC® and Sarah Bainton Kahn

Tue, 24 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Celebrating 30 years of the AFC® means celebrating the incredible impact it has made over the years! This week we had the pleasure to speak with Sarah Bainton Kahn and Pam Fraser, two women who played instrumental roles in the success of the CFPB’s Financial Coaching Initiative, which ran from 2015 to 2019. The initiative provided financial coaching services to veterans as well as individuals and families in economically vulnerable communities and uniquely set a high standard by requiring that all coaches held both the Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) and the Financial Fitness Coach (FFC®) designations.

In our conversation, Sarah and Pam fondly reminisce about the program – sharing the missteps, the successes, and the impact. They talk about the importance of meeting clients where they are, building relationships, and finding your champions. This episode is full of great insight and we hope it will inspire more programs like this one in the years to come.

Show Notes:
2:13 How this initiative with CFPB came to be
4:55 How this program served the community
7:41 Key aspects of the program that made it successful
16:59 Learning takeaways and improvements for the program
22:04 Advice for organizations looking to use this model
25:18 Pam and Sara's final two cents

Show Note Links:
Email Sarah or Connect on Linkedin
Email Pam or Connect on Linkedin
CFPB Report: Read Here
CFPB Homepage
FFC Certification
AFC certification
Guide to Remote Financial Coaching

Submit an Invitation to Present by June 3rd!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Serving Our Clients Intentionally: Listening & Staying Informed with Heath Carelock, AFC®

Tue, 10 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Today we kick off our mid-season series focused on the 30th Anniversary of the AFC. In this episode, we had the honor to sit down with Heath Carelock, AFC®. Heath is the Program Director for the Financial Empowerment Center at Prince George’s Community College in Maryland. He was also one of the first AFCs to volunteer for our pro bono counseling initiative at the height of the pandemic and remains active in the program today.

This episode covers the gamut, offering great insights on reframing our services to better meet our clients’ needs, valuable ways to improve our own work as financial professionals (hint: it goes beyond financial knowledge), and the importance of aspiring to a belief system. We also talk about the power of words (in relation to someone seeking help) – and how important it is to understand your clients and how they think about money.

Following the recording of this episode, we learned that Heath was named the “2022 Community Champion” at the Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards Program. Heath’s impact is far-reaching, and his insights are great, making this an episode you don’t want to miss!

Show Notes:
2:10 Heath's background and what led him to his work today
6:12 What inspired Heath to pursue the AFC® designation
10:43 Heath's experience with the Pro Bono Counseling Initiative
13:23 Trends and different scenarios Heath has been picking up on
17:00 Has there been a rise in clients over the last few years?
23:01 How Heath connects with the community
29:00 Heath's final 2 Cents

Show Note Links:
Connect with Heath on LinkedIn
EarnUp
Money Habitudes
Cash Campaign of Maryland
Financial Empowerment Center at Prince George’s Community College

AFCPE Resources:
Join the Membership community
AFCPE Symposium Invitation to Present

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Discovering Your Niche and Growing Your Private Practice with Maggie Klokkenga, CFP®, CPA®, and Rachael Bronstein, AFC®

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 12:00:00 -0400

In this final episode of our Real Money, Real Experts Career Series, we catch up with Rachael Bronstein and Maggie Klokkenga. Tune in as they share their own experiences in starting a private practice and how honing in on your niche can lead to a more successful, fulfilling career.

Maggie Klokkenga, CFP®, CPA, and AFC® candidate is a financial coach and the owner of Make a Money Mindshift, a financial coaching and planning firm in central Illinois where she helps individuals and couples to reduce their overwhelm and shame with money.

Rachael Bronstein is an Accredited Financial Counselor & financial coach for Jean Chatzky’s FinanceFixx program. Rachael also launched a company last May to help touring music professionals simplify their life & finances, called Life’s Jam.

Show Notes:
3:24 Rachael's journey to personal finance
11:33 FinanceFixx Program
14:11 Maggie and multiple streams of income
16:24 Rachael's tips for small business owners
18:26 Tools Rachael found helpful early on
21:18 Maggie's tips for small business owners
24:29 What led Maggie to pursue the AFC
28:15 Guests' final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Follow Rachael:

Life’s Jam Website
Connect on LinkedIn or Instagram or Facebook
Kim Kaupe's podcast

Follow Maggie:

Make a Money Mindshift website
Connect with Brad Klontz
Connect on LinkedIn or Instagram or Facebook or Youtube

AFCPE Resources:

Join the Membership community:
AFCPE Connections Fair: Gain Experience. Find a Job.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Empowering our Youth through Financial Literacy & Education with Laura Levine

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

To kick off Financial Literacy Month, our hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson speak with President and CEO of the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, Laura Levine. Laura shares the ins and outs of her own career journey and provides listeners with ideas on how to get involved with youth financial education and the coalition’s work.

Laura is a fierce advocate for financial education and she is passionate about better equipping our youth with the knowledge they need to thrive. Tune in as she shares resources and actionable steps we can all take to provide the schools in our community with more financial education.

Show Notes:
2:20 Laura's Career Journey to Today
4:50 All about Jump$tart and its history
10:35 Getting involved with the coalition and where to start
14:02 Making a bigger impact with the state coalition
18:18 AFCPE's impact as a Jump$tart board member
20:26 Getting involved as an organization at the state level
21:41 Current state of financial education in schools
27:59 Laura's final two cents

Show Note Links:
Email Laura
Connect on LinkedIn
Jump$tart Website/Instagram/Facebook/Twitter
Laura’s Twitter
Laura’s LinkedIn page
Project Groundswell / Check Your School for Financial Literacy:
Jump$tart State Coalitions
Jump$tart Clearing House
Council for Economic Education’s Survey of the States:
Join the Membership community
AFCPE Connections Fair: Gain Experience. Find a Job. April 28

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Financial Inclusion as an Avenue to Building Community with Janie Bright, AFC®

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0400

This week, Rachael sits down with longtime AFCPE Member, Janie Bright, AFC®. Janie is a self-described passionate credit union employee who has worked in the industry for nearly 30 years. She began her journey as a Credit Union teller, where she saw firsthand the issues that individuals and families face in relation to their finances. Today, she serves as the Vice President of Financial Inclusion and Community Strategy and shares all that she's learned along the way.

In this episode, Janie reminds us about the power of mentorship – there are coaches all around you; the importance of financial inclusion – the only thing that separates us from others is our situations; and the value of doing well by doing good.

Show notes:
2:17 Into her career journey
6:10 Working in the credit union & banking space
8:42 How being an AFC® has enhanced her impact
9:46 Her experience serving on a nonprofit board
12:01 Symposium memories and highlights
14:52 How Janie defines financial inclusion
19:16 Janie's final 2 cents

Show note links:
Email Janie
Connect on LinkedIn
Local Government Federal Credit Union
Join the Membership community
AFCPE Connections Fair: Gain Experience. Find a Job.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Entrepreneurship, Financial Coaching, and all things Certification with Josh Escalante Troesh and Garrett Philbin, AFC®

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode, we're continuing our Career Series by diving deep into the world of financial coaching and the ups and downs of owning your own business with Josh Escalante Troesh and Garrett Philbin, AFC®.

Josh and Garrett discuss the importance of community, investing in yourself, as well as detailing the difference between licensure and certification and why they're relevant. They provide tons of useful resources, and their combined wisdom can really speak to wherever you're at in your career, making this episode a must-listen!

Both Josh and Garrett are co-founders of Financial Coaches Network, a business incubator/accelerator that supports entrepreneurs in building their businesses. Garrett holds his AFC® Certification, began financial coaching in 2015 and is the founder of a successful financial coaching business and the Financial Coaches Community Facebook group with over 5,000 members. Josh is a CFP and a Tenured Professor specializing in personal finance and entrepreneurship and has been quoted in Forbes, CNBC, Consumer Reports, US News & World Report, and dozens of other media.

Show notes:
01:45 Garrett's journey to starting a successful financial coaching business
03:47 Josh's unique start in the business and starting Financial Coaches Network with Garrett
05:34 Garrett’s pivot from the music business to the personal finance space
10:08 What made Garrett decide to earn the AFC?
12:32 All about licensure with Josh
20:16 Is there a need for a standardized definition of financial coaching?
24:44 Garrett’s insights on working in private practice
29:56 The final 2 cents

Show Note Links:

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Military, Banks, and Nonprofits: Career Talk with Andia Dinesen, AFC®

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0500

This week, we are joined by Andia Dinesen, Executive Vice President for Communications and Operations for the Association of Military Banks of America (AMBA). As a military spouse, Andia shares her journey to AFC® certification through the FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship Program. She touches on the importance of perseverance and offers great advice for AFCs interested in working on a military installation or for a bank or credit union. She also shares why having trusted partners in financial services is critical to our work as financial professionals.

As a bonus, Andia catches us up on the great resources that AMBA provides – from their Veterans Banking Benefits Program (VBBP), to their collaboration with AFCPE which provides free financial counseling to Veterans, to the financial preparedness kit available to servicemembers (MilDocs) – there are lots of great resources for you to better support the military and Veteran community.

Show Notes:
02:23 How she got started, and how she found the AFC®
04:44 The funny backstory behind her being a military spouse
06:21 Advice to all aspiring Military Spouse Fellows and applicants
08:07 Tips for those interested in working at a banker credit union
10:04 Who else hires AFCs?
15:46 How being an AFCPE member has furthered her career
20:09 All about MILDOCS
22:09 Andia's final 2 cents

Show Note Links:
Andia’s LinkedIn page
FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship Program
Veterans Benefits Banking Program
Pro Bono Financial Counseling: For Veterans or for General Public
AMBA - Association of Military Banks of America
MILDOCS

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Beyond Academia: Community Impact with Karen Richel, Extension Educator

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500

This week, we very excitedly welcome Karen Richel to the show as we continue our Career Series. Karen is a University of Idaho Extension Associate Professor and the Family Finance Extension educator for ten north Idaho counties. In her work, Karen caters to every age and socioeconomic group with one-on-one financial counseling/coaching sessions, classes, workshops, and simulations.

In the third episode of our Real Money, Real Experts career series, Karen shares how an unexpected “pause” in her life led to a more meaningful life and career. As an avid mentor, Karen offers valuable – and unique – advice, on how being an “octopus” can set you up for career success. Regardless of your career path, she is a wealth of knowledge and resources, making this an episode that'll leave you uplifted.

Show Notes:

01:58 How Karen got to where she is now
09:37 What she would’ve loved to know before entering the field
16:12 Karen's amazing experience being an AFCPE® Mentor
18:05 How her AFC® has impacted her work
21:16 All about working in Cooperative Extension
23:51 How to break into this career field
28:07 What type of educational background do you need?
29:22 The transition to virtual learning
32:33 Advice for aspiring mentors and mentees for AFCPE's MentorConnect program
35:05 Karen’s final 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Reach out to Karen here
Karen’s LinkedIn page
University of Idaho Extension
Extension Jobs
Join the Membership community to become a mentor or mentee!
"Our Financial Conference" mentioned by Karen

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Government Careers in Personal Finance: Going inside with Dr. Mary Bell Carlson

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0500

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we’re putting co-host Dr. Mary Bell Carlson in the hot seat. In this second episode of our career series, Rachael talks to Mary about her expansive career path in the Government sector. Mary is a wealth of knowledge on the variety of ways AFC professionals can work in financial counseling and education at the local, state, and federal levels, and she offers lots of great resources for our listeners to explore.

Even if you aren’t interested in a government career, Mary’s passion for advocacy is inspiring and she offers great tips for career growth in any field. (Hint – it starts with building strong relationships!) As an AFC® and a CFP®, Mary has a unique perspective on the value of the AFC, making this an episode you don’t want to miss.

Show Notes:
01:48 Mary’s Attraction to this Field
07:33 Why to Pursue Your AFC® and CFP®
10:02 The Intersection of Government Work and AFCPE®
11:37 All About Our Government Relations Task Force
12:49 What Mary Loved About Working in This Sector
15:32 Getting Involved at the Federal Level
19:45 Advice for Those Looking to Pursue Similar Careers
21:23 What She Would’ve Loved to Know Before Entering the Field
22:37 Mary’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:
Mary's Linkedin
Chief Financial Mom

Career Resources:

AFC Certification
Career Paths
AFCPE Job Board
Save the Date: April 25 - 29th: AFCPE Virtual Experience Hour & Internship Fair
Join the Membership community!
Cities for Financial Empowerment (CFE)
National Association of Counties (NACO)
Treasury’s Financial Literacy & Economic Commission (FLEC)
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC)
FINRA’s Foundation
Government Relations Task Force
Military Essentials Course
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
InFre & Retirement Counseling

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Bridging Gaps with Financial Literacy & Youth Initiative Founder Marcy Reyes, AFC®

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0500

Kicking off the first episode in our new Career Series, “Real Money, Real Experts” co-hosts Dr. Mary Bell Carlson and Rachael DeLeon speak with Marcy Reyes, AFC® about her career in the nonprofit space.

Marcy is the Founder and CEO of The Financial Literacy Youth (or FLY) Initiative, a non-profit organization that provides culturally responsive financial literacy programming to underserved and underrepresented students; empowering youth with the knowledge, skills, and experiences to end generational poverty. Marcy has made her mark in the field by identifying gaps and working to close them... not to mention she is also the first Latina in her state to be an AFC®.

Listen in as she takes us through her journey of starting a nonprofit while sharing her inspiring advice for everyone interested in working in the nonprofit space. Her enthusiasm and passion for this work are contagious, no matter what area of the field you are in!

Show Notes:

00:42 Marcy’s Introduction
01:39 Marcy’s Intro to the Field of Finance
03:45 Marcy’s Journey to the Nonprofit Space
06:33 Manifesting the FLY Initiative
07:49 The Impact of the AFC® in Her Work
11:21 Marcy’s Advice for Breaking into the Nonprofit Space
14:42 The Best Part of Marcy’s Job Is…
16:23 What She Would’ve Loved to Know Before Entering the Field
18:49 Potential Expansion of the FLY Initiative
20:30 Marcy’s Final 2 Cents

Show Note Links:
Marcy's LinkedIn Page
FLY Website
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Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Kicking off 2022: Ask Us Anything

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 13:00:00 -0500

In our first episode of 2022, co-hosts Mary Bell Carlson and Rachael DeLeon give listeners a sneak peek into what’s ahead on the 2022 season of Real Money, Real Experts. We also answer all your pressing questions about the podcast, the organization, and so much more. Whether you’re already a part of the AFCPE community, or are thinking about pursuing the AFC certification, taking an Essentials course, or becoming an AFCPE Member, this episode is for you!

Show Notes:
00:23 Introduction
01:18 Welcome to Season 3
06:36 What’s new with Dr. Mary Bell Carlson
08:17 How to Apply to be a Guest on Real Money, Real Experts
11:57 AFCPE®s Career Center Page
14:54 The Difference Between Certification & Membership
18:51 Mary’s Journey into the Field of Finance
20:00 Ways to get your AFC®
25:25 Tips for AFC® Candidates
29:04 What Makes the AFC® Unique?
37:53 AFCPE®’s Essentials Courses

Show Note Links:
AFCPE Career and Resource Center
Become a Guest on Real Money, Real Experts
FINRAs List of Accredited Designations
AFCPEs Certification Programs

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Year in Review: Looking back at some of our favorite episodes

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Before we leap into an exciting new year for the Real Money, Real Experts podcast, we’re taking a moment to look back at some of our favorite episodes from 2021. In this episode, you’ll hear clips from a variety of guests we’ve had on the show this season as we remember the incredible stories, insights, and advice they had to share.

From all of us at AFCPE, we extend a huge thank you to everyone who’s tuned in this year! If you're interested in coming on our podcast for season three, check out the Guest Application linked in the show notes. We look forward to seeing you all again in 2022!

Show Notes:
01:08 John Sileo’s Key to Unlocking Cyber Security
03:30 Financial Therapy & Healing Money Scripts with Dr. Brad Klontz
06:58 Demystifying Credit with Experian’s Rod Griffin
08:35 Life Long Learning: Financial Education for All Ages with Ann House, AFC®
11:59 Jen Hemphill, AFC®: Why Her Dinero Matters
16:37 Going for Gold with Lauryn Williams
20:07 Overcoming addiction and leading with empathy with Ambus Hunter IV, AFC® Candidate
23: 01 Show your Pride: Building an Inclusive Practice with Cait Howerton, AFC®, CFP®
24:43 DataPoints: The Psychology of Building Wealth

Show Note links:
Podcast Guest Application
https://www.afcpe.org/real-money-real-experts-podcast/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Poised for growth: What’s next for AFCPE in 2022?

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Today on Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson chat with Rachael DeLeon, AFCPE’s Senior Director of Member Services and Communications and soon-to-be Interim Executive Director.

As Rebecca prepares to take the next step in her career, we pause to reflect back on the incredible impact she’s had on AFCPE over the past 16 years, while learning more about Rachael’s involvement and vision for the future. AFCPE is poised for an exciting future with new partnerships, new technology, and new opportunities for our members and AFCs. If you want a sneak peek into what’s in store for 2022, this episode is a must-listen!

Show Notes:
00:52 Rachael’s Introduction
01:26 Rachael’s Road to AFCPE®
06:29 The Magic of the AFCPE® Symposium
10:43 AFCPE® Through Rebecca’s Leadership
17:09 The Future of AFCPE®
22:22 Rachael’s Two Cents for the Future of AFCPE

Show Note links:
Wells Fargo Foundation Project: https://www.canportal.org/afcpecovid19
Barb O’Neill podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/vc/podcast/real-money-real-experts/id1514660485
AFCPE® Archives Project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qSSiiPj4FwNo63lJX_AfpvnHDrQPOVU1/view?usp=sharing
Archives project volunteer form: https://forms.gle/Za9dC9Njsj62o8RX8

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Getting to the heart of it: Understanding our clients’ values and money behaviors with Sarah Li-Cain

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk with Sarah Li-Cain, finance writer, podcast producer, and host of Beyond the Dollar.

As a journalist, Sarah speaks to an incredible variety of people, listening to how money intersects with their physical, mental, and spiritual health. In this episode, Sarah discusses how money affects the human condition and how, as financial counselors, we must work to understand the heart of our clients’ money behaviors.

Remember, if you missed this year’s Symposium, you can still register for the on-demand recordings and access more than 50 hours of professional development content. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Show Notes:

00:52 Sarah’s Introduction
01:36 Sarah’s Journey into the Field
03:36 Finding the AFC®
07:58 “Money itself is only as important as what's going on in someone's life”
10:20 Beyond the Money
19:18 Values Based Spending & What is Enough for You
22:40 Sarah’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Connect with Sarah!
Twitter: @sarahlicain
Instagram: @beyondthedollar
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahlicain
http://beyondthedollar.co
https://beyondthedollar.co/enough/
https://beyondthedollar.co/spending/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

When I’m 65: Preparing to be a financial caregiver with AFC® Corey Carlisle

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

According to the US Census Bureau, one in five Americans will be aged 65 or older by the end of this decade. Unfortunately, this growing population is also most at risk for financial fraud and exploitation.

Today on Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by AFC® Corey Carlisle, Senior Vice President at the American Bankers Association and Executive Director of the ABA Foundation. In this episode, Corey dives into what it means to become a financial caregiver for an older generation and how we can provide more resources and tools to support them as they serve this vulnerable population.

Corey also gives us a sneak peek of his Symposium topic, discussing the need for financial inclusion for previously incarcerated citizens. If you’re interested in hearing more from Corey, don’t miss his panel discussion during the 2021 AFCPE Symposium happening November 15 - 19!

Show Notes:

00:52 Corey Introduction
01:49 Corey’s Journey Into the Field
02:44 The American Bankers Association
04:46 Corey’s Journey towards the AFC®
07:33 Financial Caregiving
10:10 Be Aware – Scams Targeting the Elderly
12:05 Having Those Tough Conversations with your Loved Ones
16:32 Financial Wellbeing for Previously Incarcerated Citizens
22:36 Corey’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Connect with Corey!

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coreycarlisle
Twitter: @FinHealthCorey

Resources
aba.com/foundation
aba.com/consumers
https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/finedlink
https://bankingjournal.aba.com/2018/11/a-financial-caregiver-chances-are-youll-be-one-or-youll-need-one/
https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/safe-banking-for-seniors
https://www.nia.nih.gov/
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/resources-for-older-adults/
https://www.aba.com/banking-topics/operations/diversity-equity-inclusion
https://joinbankon.org/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Accessibility, the path to AFC, and RV living with Melissa Mittelstaedt

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

What do RVs, sign language, and AFC® certification have in common? They’re all part of the journey for our latest podcast guest, Melissa Mittelstaedt.

Melissa is a sign language interpreter, the founder of Money Coach, an AFCPE member, and an AFC candidate. On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Melissa dives into creating financial stability despite variable income, creating more accessible financial resources for our deaf and hard of hearing clients, and common advice she gives to women entrepreneurs chasing their dreams.

Show Notes:

00:52 Melissa Introduction
01:14 Melissa’s Journey
05:40 Running a Business, Supporting Dreams, Full Time RV Living
09:59 Melissa’s Private Practice
15:57 Lessons Learned
18:40 Working with Clients that are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
24:02 The Value of the AFC®
27:32 Melissa’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Contact Melissa:
Website: https://www.melissamitt.com/about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_melissamitt/

Mix Captions:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mixcaptions
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mixcaptions

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From the Vault: Jen Hemphill: Why Her Dinero Matters

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In honor of Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month, we are re-releasing our conversation with Jen Hemphill, AFC®, host of the Her Dinero Matters podcast.

This blog post includes additional information on the unique barriers to financial well-being that members of the Latinx community may encounter as well as resources to use with your Latinx clients.

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to award-winning podcaster and AFC® Jen Hemphill. Jen has devoted her career to helping women feel like the queen of their financial lives, and is committed to helping Latinas across the US find financial freedom.

The three discuss Jen’s journey from military spouse to AFC®. Covering important topics like building a private practice, defining your niche, and having multiple streams of income, Jen openly shares her journey and the mistakes that she made along the way. Jen also touches on the important ways that culture impacts our money decisions. Tune in to learn more about Jen’s experiences, and to gain a new perspective to better support your clients.

Show Notes:

00:52 Jen Introduction
05:09 Jen’s Journey to Personal Finance
12:05 Building her Private Practice
16:22 Finding your Niche
19:14 Finances and the Latinx Community
25:27 Growing your Business & Having Multiple Sources of Income
32:54 Writing and Self-Publishing Her Dinero Matters
38:02 Your Two Cents

Show Note Links:

Get in Contact with Jen!

Website: https://jenhemphill.com/
Podcast: https://jenhemphill.com/her-dinero-matters-podcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jenhemphilll
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneywithjen/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenhemphill/ & https://www.instagram.com/herdineromatters/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenhemphill/

Resources

Money as You Grow resource for parents: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/money-as-you-grow/

Her Dinero Matters: https://jenhemphill.com/book

Resources for Inclusion of Latinx Community: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zNIvlgiqgusYVlri9XRCW1GX5_j0mL7S/view?usp=sharing

FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship for the AFC(R): https://www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/finra-foundation-military-spouse-fellowship/

AFCPE Membership: https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Under-banked and overlooked: Helping our vulnerable populations with Leigh Phillips

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

What does it truly mean to be unbanked or under-banked? What unexpected impacts can it have on the financial security of our clients?

We dive into these questions on this eye-opening episode of Real Money, Real Experts with Leigh Phillips, President of SaverLife, a national nonprofit that helps working families achieve prosperity by taking small savings steps. From lack of access to emergency funds to predatory debt traps, Leigh shares the serious barriers to financial stability that come with being unbanked or under-banked and shines light on the steps AFCPE professionals can take to help.

Don’t forget, SaverLife will be one of our keynote sessions at our upcoming 2021 AFCPE symposium, sharing powerful stories about the struggles and resilience of those hardest hit by the pandemic. If you enjoyed this episode, you don't want to miss it!

Show Notes:

00:52 Leigh Introduction
01:40 Leigh’s Journey into the Field of Finance
05:08 History of Bank on San Francisco
08:43 Financial Implications of Being Unbanked or Underbanked
11:12 Inspiring Individuals to Start Saving with SaverLife
17:50 How just $100 in Savings can Change your Life
22:26 Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
26:04 How AFCPE® Professionals Can Help
28:48 Connect to SaverLife & Access Resources

Show Note links:

Get in contact with Leigh and SaverLife:

Twitter: @wearesaverlife and @twoleighp
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saverlife
www.SaverLife.org

Resources:
www.About.saverlife.org
https://about.saverlife.org/research-posts/finra
https://joinbankon.org/
https://www.fdic.gov/analysis/household-survey/index.html
https://cfefund.org/
https://www.hardhit.org/
https://www.hardhit.org/data
www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/certification-scholarships/
www.afcpe.org/symposium

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Real Money, Real Experts Live! Student Loan Planning with Ryan Law, CFP®, AFC®

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Ryan Law, CFP®, AFC® for another Facebook Live! Student loan policies have gone through a lot of changes this past year. Check out this Real Money, Real Experts Live for and overview of these changes and what comes next for borrowers.

Show Notes:

00:02 Ryan Introduction
01:00 COVID-19 Student Loan Updates
02:20 Temporary Suspension of Federal Student Loan Payments & Debt Collections
05:36 Temporary 0% Interest on all Federal Student Loans
07:13 Getting Ready for Repayment
08:45 BIG Update for Approximately 10 Million Borrowers
10:40 Public Service Loan Forgiveness
12:54 Have Loans with FedLoan or Granite? Take These Steps!
14:18 Question from the Audience
15:15 Avoiding Student Loan Scams & Reliable Forgiveness Programs
21:27 AFCPE®’s College Finance Essentials Course
24:59 Ryan’s Two Cents

Show Notes Links:

More about Ryan & how to contact him: Ryan H. Law Student Loan page
To get more information on all student loans: Studentaid.gov
Public Student Loan Forgiveness Information
Federal Student Loan Servicers
Ryan’s book: Student Loan Planning: A Borrower’s Guide to Understanding and Repaying Student Loans
For more information on College Finance Essentials, check out: https://www.afcpe.org/educati.../college-finance-essentials/ use code CFE2021 for 25%! This code expires December 31, 2021

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Financial Therapy & Healing Money Scripts with Dr. Brad Klontz

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Today on Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Dr. Brad Klontz, a financial planner, financial psychologist, and coauthor of six books on the psychology of money.

In this episode, Dr. Klontz dives into the world of financial therapy, exploring its similarities and differences with financial coaching and counseling, and sharing the incredible impact it can have on our personal relationship with money. We learn about our individual, deep-rooted beliefs around money called “money scripts,” how they affect us, and how we can change them.

Don’t forget, Dr. Klontz will be delivering keynote remarks at our upcoming 2021 AFCPE symposium. This episode is a must-listen, especially if you’ll be joining us in November!

Show Notes:

00:52 Brad introduction
01:45 Brad’s introduction to the Field of Finance
04:29 How Financial Therapy Differs from Counseling & Coaching
08:51 Identifying and Working Through Money Scripts with your Clients
15:48 Importance of Talking About Money with Children
21:17 Intersectionality of Money Scripts
26:18 It’s Unromantic, but Important – Talking about Money with your Partner Early
34:47 Brad’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Connect with Brad!

@drbradklontz on all social media platforms
https://www.bradklontz.com/about
www.bradklontz.com/moneyscriptstest

Resources

www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/certification-scholarships/
www.afcpe.org/symposium
https://financialtherapyassociation.org/find-a-financial-therapist/
https://www.financialpsychologyinstitute.com/
AFCPE Member Discounts

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Origin Story: Understanding the History of Wealth and Equity with Edgar Villanueva

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

How has our history shaped our financial present? What is the origin of wealth? Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson discuss why these questions matter on this episode of Real Money, Real Experts with award-winning author Edgar Villanueva.

Edgar is an enrolled member of the Lumbee tribe of North Carolina, the Principal of Decolonizing Wealth Project and Liberated Capital, and the author of the bestselling book Decolonizing Wealth.

Pulling from his experience advising global organizations on advancing racial equity from within, Edgar explains financial counselors and advisors must not only understand our history and the origins of wealth, but must also ensure their services are open and accessible to clients from vastly different communities or backgrounds than their own.

Show Notes:

00:52 Edgar introduction
3:09 Edgars Career Trajectory
5:36 Principles of Decolonizing Wealth
12:55 Doing the Work – Holistic Understanding of the Individual to Better Serve Clients
15:51 Financial Challenges of the Native American Community
22:45 Edgar’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Connect with Edgar!
Twitter: @VillanuevaEdgar
Instagram: @VillanuevaEdgar

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DecolonizingWealth/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decolonizing-wealth-project/
Decolonizing Wealth: https://decolonizingwealth.com/
7 Steps to Healing: https://decolonizingwealth.com/7-steps-to-healing/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Overcoming addiction and leading with empathy with Ambus Hunter IV, AFC® Candidate

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

From music education, to supply chain management, to overcoming a gambling addiction, Ambus Hunter’s path to becoming a financial counselor looks different from most.

In this episode, you’ll hear co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson chat with Accredited Financial Counselor® Candidate Ambus as he shares his story of struggling with, and triumphing over, a gambling addiction, and how it ultimately brought him to his private practice.

Both vulnerable and authentic, Ambus discusses the importance of empathy and understanding within the financial coaching profession, the power of sharing our struggles, and the beauty in creating human connections.

Show Notes:

00:52 Ambus Introduction
01:29 Ambus’ Journey to the Field of Finance
14:03 Understanding and being Empathetic towards Gambling Addictions
18:15 How Life Experiences Validate Your Practice
22:59 Working with Clients with an Addiction
27:27 They Journey towards the AFC®
29:52 Ambus’ Private Practice
32:34 Talking about Stocks and Investing as a Financial Counselor/Coach
35:52 Get Registered to Give Investment Advice
37:18 Ambus’ Two Cents

Show Note links:

Social Media

IG: @ambushunter
Twitter: @ambusvhunter

Ambus’s blog: www.ambushunter.com
Ambus’ personal journey: https://www.ambushunter.com/how-gambling-away-my-savings-strengthened-my-relationship-with-money/
National Gambling Helpline: https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/national-helpline-1-800-522-4700/
Department of Health and Human Services - Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

From the Ground Up: Starting a Private Practice and Navigating State Registrations: https://www.afcpe.org/real-money-real-experts-podcast/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Exploring Transitions - A look at AFCPE® through the years and Changing Careers with Barbara O'Neill, AFC®

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0400

This week on Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson walk down memory lane with Dr. Barbara O'Neill, owner/CEO of Money Talk and Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Rutgers University. A long time member of AFCPE®, Dr. O'Neill talks to us about her favorite AFCPE moments and the growth of the organization through the years.

Just as AFCPE has transitioned over the years, so has her professional career. Come learn about her exciting journey from Academia to Entrepreneurship and hear how she uses social media, professional connections and life lessons to build a successful private practice.

Show Notes:

00:52 Barb Intro

02:04 Barb’s intro to the Field of Finance

04:08 Stroll Down Memory Lane: AFCPE® in the early years

08:09 Tips for your first AFCPE® Symposium

09:17 Barb’s transition from Academia to Entrepreneurship

12:39 Filling in the Cracks: Managing your Time as a Private Practitioner

14:17 The Mary O’Neill Mini Grant: Origins and Impact in the Field

18:26 Using Social Media to Build your Brand

21:53 Barb’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Contact Barb!
Twitter: @moneytalk1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbaraoneillmoneytalk/
Small Steps Blog: https://moneytalk1.blogspot.com/2021/06/the-value-of-simple-process-steps.html
Money Talk Website: https://www.moneytalkbmo.com/
Money Talk Blog: https://moneytalk1.blogspot.com/

Resources
Rutgers Cooperative Extension Personal Finance Website: https://njaes.rutgers.edu/money/
Amazon Website for Flipping a Switch Book: https://www.amazon.com/Flipping-Switch-Happiness-Financial-Security/dp/1620236869
Military Families Learning Network Personal Finance Website: https://militaryfamilieslearningnetwork.org/personal-finance/
Mary O’Neill Mini Grant: https://www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/grants/
Mary O’Neill Mini Grant Recipients: https:/www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/mini-grant-recipients/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Finding Your Niche: How to build your financial coaching business with Lacey Langford, AFC®

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

The power of failure, the unique financial struggles of military service members, finding your financial coaching niche — co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson cover it all with guest Lacey Langford, AFC®.

Lacey is the creator and host of the Military Money Show, a podcast that's dedicated to helping the military community make, save, and invest money wisely. She's also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and the founder of Laceylangford.com, a personal finance blog and coaching practice specializing in the unique world of the United States Military.

In this episode, Lacey talks about barriers that are actually business opportunities in disguise, her unconventional career journey to a career in helping military members, and her favorite resources for entrepreneurs. If you run your own financial business — or are thinking about taking the leap to start a private practice — you don’t want to miss this episode of Real Money, Real Experts.

Show Notes:

00:52 Lacey’s Introduction

01:36 Lacey’s Journey to the Field and the AFC®

05:27 Financial Challenges of Active-Duty Service Members

07:56 Financial Challenges and Barriers of Active-Duty Military Spouses

11:35 Resources for Service Members and Souses in Transition

14:00 The Evolution of Lacey’s Private Practice

17:06 The Power of Having a Niche

20:04 Diversifying your Income

24:53 Advice for Private Practitioners

30:00 Resources for Entrepreneurs

35:42 Lacey’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Connect with Lacey!

Website: https://laceylangford.com/
Instagramː https://www.instagram.com/laceylangford
Twitterː https://twitter.com/FinanceLacey
LinkedInː https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceylangford
YouTubeː https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0oGyS_Pwtig0iecEQ_PW2g
Facebookː https://www.facebook.com/TheMilitaryMoneyExpert

Military Resources
Veterati: https://www.veterati.com/
Military OneSource: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/
Hiring Our Heroes: https://www.hiringourheroes.org/

Entrepreneurial Resources
Financial Coaching Business Builder: https://programs.laceylangford.com/courses/fcbb
Airtable: https://airtable.com/
Calendly: https://calendly.com/
Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
Meet Edgar: https://meetedgar.com/
HelloSign: https://www.hellosign.com/
Thinkific: https://www.thinkific.com/
Lead Pages: https://www.leadpages.com/
Blue Host: https://www.bluehost.com/#

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Show your Pride: Building an Inclusive Practice with Cait Howerton, AFC®, CFP®

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In honor of Pride Month, we dive deeper into the unique financial challenges of the LGBTQ+ community and learn the changes — both big and small — we can make to create a more inclusive practice.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson speak with Cait Howerton, CFP®, AFC®, member of the LGBTQ+ community, and Lead Planner at Facet Wealth where she helps her clients uncover their life goals, navigate their money beliefs, and effectively use their earnings to achieve their dreams.

From higher youth homeless rates and increased student loan debt, to the impact of non-inclusive language, the group discusses the responsibility of financial coaches and counselors to not only understand, but meet the needs of their LGBTQ+ clients.

Show Notes:

00:52 Cait Introduction
01:39 Cait's Journey to the Field of Finance
06:45 A Financial and Social Advocate
08:03 The Unique, and Complex, Financial Challenges of the LGBTQ+ Community
11:34 Advise for Student Loan Borrowers
15:37 Building Inclusive Practices as a Financial Counselor/Coach
20:29 Resources for Building an Inclusive Practice
23:02 Cait's Two Cents

Show Note links:

Connect with Cait!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/caithowerton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caithowerton/

Resources:

Facet Wealth: https://facetwealth.com/
Smartpath: https://www.joinsmartpath.com/
Find an AFC: https://www.afcpe.org/find-an-afcpe-certified-professional/
Federal Student Loans: https://studentaid.gov/
2050 Trailblazers: https://www.2050trailblazers.com/
GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/
Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/resources
Prudential LGBT Financial Experience:
https://www.prudential.com/wps/portal/production/prudential/links/about/lgbt-financial-wxperience/!ut/p/z0/04_Sj9CPykssy0xPLMnMz0vMAfIjo8zivS08XD083A18DBzN3Qwc3SzdXc2D3J0szcz0C7IdFQEk0h_d/
The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
SAGE - Advocacy and Services for LGBTQ+ Elders: https://www.sageusa.org/

Celebrate PRIDE with ACFPE: https://www.afcpe.org/news-and-publications/blog/afcpe-pride-month-2021/
AFCPE Equity Screen: https://www.afcpe.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/AFCPE-Equity-Screen-Final.pdf

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Let’s get brunch: Food & Financial Equality with Pamela Capalad, AFC®, and Dyalekt

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

What do hip-hop pedagogy and brunch have to do with breaking down the racial wealth divide? We found out in this episode of Real Money, Real Experts.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson speak with Pamela Capalad, CFP®, AFC®, founder of Brunch & Budget, and Dyalekt, Host of the Brunch & Budget Podcast, Workshop MC, and See Change MC.

Brunch & Budget is a financial planning program created to give everyone safe, friendly, and affordable places to talk about money and make real financial progress. In this interview, the group discusses why financial coaches and counselors need to understand the systematic challenges faced by clients of color, how these challenges impact their relationship with money, and how we can meet our clients where they are through a lens of equity and inclusion.

Show Notes:

00:52 Pamela Capalad and Dyalekt Introduction
02:10 Pamela’s Journey to the Field of Finance
04:52 Dyalekt’s Journey & Infusing Music and Art into Financial Literacy
09:16 Origins of Brunch and Budget
13:05 The Racial Wealth Gap
16:28 See Change – Integrating the Racial Wealth Divide into Financial Coaching
19:54 Resources on the Racial Wealth Gap
21:20 Pamela & Dyalekt’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Get in contact with Brunch & Budget:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brunchandbudget/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/brunchandbudget
Brunch & Budget Website: https://brunchandbudget.com/
Brunch & Budget Podcast: https://brunchandbudget.buzzsprout.com/
Pockets Change Website: http://www.pocketschange.com/

Resources on the Racial Wealth Divide

Race & Wealth Podcast: https://raceandwealth.buzzsprout.com/
Prosperity Now: https://prosperitynow.org/
National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC): https://ncrc.org/
The Color of Money: Black Banks and the Racial Wealth Gap: https://www.amazon.com/Color-Money-Black-Racial-Wealth/dp/0674237471/ref=asc_df_0674237471/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312243616995&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4652926880038556144&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007563&hvtargid=pla-660086380255&psc=1
Color of Law book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-color-of-law-richard-rothstein/1124822159

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Life Long Learning: Financial Education for All Ages with Ann House, AFC®

Tue, 25 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts co-host Dr. Mary Bell Carlson speaks with Ann House, MS, CPFC, CEPF, AFC®, founder of the Personal Money Management Center, a resource for students at the University of Utah. In 2015, the center received the Outstanding Financial Counseling Center award from AFCPE®.

In the interview, the two discuss Ann's financial education journey, private practice, and having money conversations with your children. Ann's goal is to help students to learn to become savvy consumers every step along the way.

Show Notes:

00:24 Ann Introduction

02:01 Ann’s Journey to the field of finance

06:52 Personal Finance and Higher Education

11:00 Development of PowerPay

13:09 Using PowerPay

16:23 Ann’s Private Practice

19:07 Women and Personal Finance

24:04 Teaching your Children About Money

28:21 AFCPE® Awards: Recognizing Excellence

30:34 Ann’s Two Cents

Show Note links:

Power Pay: https://extension.usu.edu/powerpay/

University of Utah’s’ Financial Wellness Center: https://financialwellness.utah.edu/

Ann’s Private Practice: https://annhousefinancialcounselor.com/

AFCPE Awards Nominations: https://www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/awards/

EMAIL: ahouse@sa.utah.edu

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Going for Gold with Lauryn Williams

Fri, 07 May 2021 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk with 2-time Olympic gold medalist Lauryn Williams. After her Olympic career in both track and field and bobsledding, Lauryn founded Worth Winning, offering virtual services to help young professionals navigate the world of finance.

Now both a CFP® and AFC®, Lauryn takes us through her journey from track and field to the field of finance. Lauryn offers great insights on learning from your mistakes, becoming a business owner, and how to be your true authentic self no matter where life takes you.

Show Notes:

00:52 Lauryn Introduction

01:32 Lauryn’s Journey to the Olympics

5:06 From Olympian to CFP® & AFC®

09:55 Developing her Private Practice Services

13:17 Lessons of being a Small Business Owner

20:43 Lauryn’s Two Cents

Show Note Links:

Worth Winning Website: https://www.worth-winning.com/

Lauryn’s speaking & book website: https://www.lauryn-williams.com/

Listen to Lauryn's Podcast, Worth Listening: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-listening/id1330634046?ls=1&mt=2

Social Media for Worth Winning:

Instagram: @worthwinning

Facebook: @worthwinningfp

LinkedIn: @worth-winning

Twitter: @worth_winning

Social Media for Lauryn Williams:

Instagram: @lauryncwilliams

Facebook: @LaurynWilliamsOfficial

LinkedIn: @lauryn-williams

Twitter: @LaurynCwilliams

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Jen Hemphill: Why Her Dinero Matters

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In this week’s episode of Real Money, Real Experts co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to award-winning podcaster and AFC® Jen Hemphill. Jen has devoted her career to helping women feel like the queen of their financial lives, and is committed to helping Latinas across the US find financial freedom.

Resources

Money as You Grow resource for parents: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/money-as-you-grow/

Her Dinero Matters: https://jenhemphill.com/book

Resources for Inclusion of Latinx Community: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zNIvlgiqgusYVlri9XRCW1GX5_j0mL7S/view?usp=sharing

FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship for the AFC(R): https://www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/finra-foundation-military-spouse-fellowship/

AFCPE Membership: https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Demystifying Credit with Experian’s Rod Griffin

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0400

What’s the difference between a credit report and a credit score?
Can COVID-19 have an impact on my score?
How often should I be checking my credit?
You've got credit scores and we have answers! On this week’s episode of Real Money, Real Experts. Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson dig deep into all things credit. With guest Rod Griffin, Senior Director of Consumer Education and Advocacy for Experian, they talk through what every consumer should know about credit and how to help counsel clients through issues.

Show Notes:

00:52 Rod Introduction
3:58 History of Experian and the Big Three (Credit Agencies)
7:50 Difference between US Credit Industry and the Credit Industry Abroad
10:38 Differences Between a Credit Score and a Credit Report
12:24 Good Credit Score and its Impact on your Financial Wellness
15:05 Common Myths about Credit
20:00 Checking your Credit Report
22:49 Using Experian Boost with your Clients
25:39 Identity Theft
29:43 Filing a Dispute

Show Notes:

Credit Repair Kit for Dummies-5th edition : https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Credit+Repair+Kit+For+Dummies%2C+5th+Edition-p-9781119771067
Rod is donating any proceeds he receives to nonprofits that promote financial education and financial inclusion
History of Experian: https://www.experianplc.com/media/1323/8151-exp-experian-history-book_abridged_final.pdf
Free credit report through Experian: https://www.experian.com/consumer-products/free-credit-report.html
Annual Credit Report.com: Get 1 free credit report each year from all 3 credit reporting agencies (weekly during the pandemic): https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action
Experian Boost: https://www.experian.com/boost
File Fraud Report: https://www.experian.com/fraud/center.html
Filing a dispute via Experian: https://www.experian.com/disputes/main.html'
Connect with Experian: Twitter or on Instagram
Connect with Rod: Twitter or on LinkedIn

Ways to connect with Experian via credit chats and education: www.experian.com/crediteducation

#CreditChat (ex.pn/creditchat)
#CreditChatLive (ex.pn/creditchatlive)

AFCPE Membership:
https://www.afcpe.org/membership/
AFCPE Education and Training:
https://www.afcpe.org/education-and-training/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Building Health, Wealth, and Defining your Value

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rebecca and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk with Simple Wealth Author, Holly Morphew about the connection between health and wealth. Having experienced chronic illness themselves both Mary and Holly reflect on what they've learned and how to apply it to financial well-being today.

For many families impacted by COVID-19 whether it be a job loss or falling ill themselves, the financial implications were a first-time experience. Listen in as the women talk through how to not only be financially prepared but how to support your overall health during difficult times. Holly also talks about how to coach clients through different experiences in their lives and helping them see the correlation between finances, needs, and values to create abundance.

Show Notes:
00:52 Holly Introduction
01:41 The correlation between health and wealth
08:39 The role of the pandemic
10:03 Making the most of your resources
11:42 Defining value
14:07 Becoming an AFC®
19:31 Private practice and coaching
25:02 Three ways to create wealth
31:39 Simple Wealth
35:38 Key Resources

Show Note Links:
Chime: https://www.chime.com/
Aspiration: https://www.aspiration.com/
Financial Impact: https://www.financialimpact.com/
Connect with Holly: Instagram
Simple Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Wealth-Practical-Transform-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TYW2JT3
AFCPE Membership:
https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Facebook Live: Military Spouse Fellowship

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0400

In this Facebook Live, co-hosts Rebecca and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson interview with two Military Spouse Fellows, Shay Cook of Crusaders4Change and Jen Hemphill.

Shay and Jen share their experience applying for the Military Spouse Fellowship, how earning the AFC® certification impacted their careers, and answer audience questions about the program.

*Note this episode was pre-recorded during a live event on March 16th.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

DataPoints: The Psychology of Building Wealth

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we get a deeper dive into the tools and resources developed by Dr. Sarah Fallaw, Co-Author of The Next Millionaire Next Door. Fallaw has spent her career rooted in data and furthered research based on her father's original best-selling book The Millionaire Next Door. The tools and research built by her company, DataPoints provide financial professionals with behavioral assessments to help clients understand their financial competencies. Listen along as Rebecca and Mary talk with Sarah on how to get research into practice.

Show Notes:
00:50 Sarah Intro
03:03 Sarah's Road to the Field of Finance
04:14 Understanding personalities of financial clients
08:31 Focus on research to achieve results
13:27 Integrating tools and technology
14:24 Meeting Oprah
17:50 Your Two Cents

Show Note Links:
DataPoints LLC: https://www.datapoints.com/

Resources:
The Next Millionaire Next Door:

The Millionaire Next Door: https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Next-Door-Surprising-Americas/dp/1589795474

Influence by Robert Cialdini: https://www.amazon.com/Influence-Psychology-Persuasion-Robert-Cialdini/dp/006124189X

AFCPE Membership:
https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Get Involved: America Saves Week + Military Saves Month

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 13:00:00 -0500

It's America Saves Week! Leading up to America Saves Week (February 22nd- 26th) and Military Saves Month (April) Rebecca and Mary meet with Kia Young, Director of Communication for America Saves, and Lila Quintiliani, Senior Program Manager for Military Saves. The two guests share their path to saving and what they've learned along the way.

Lila and Kia also share important resources for financial professionals and their clients. Whether it's getting involved during America Saves Week or Military Saves Month, the resources they share can be applied any time of year and tailored to fit each individual client's needs.

Show Notes:
00:50 Kia and Lila Intro
03:22 About America Saves
05:32 Financial Counselors and America Saves Week
06:41 Military Saves
10:07 Why Automatic Save?
12:02 AFCPE + America/Military Saves
13:17 Town Hall Results
19:34 Your Two Cents

Show Note Links:
FINRA Spouse Fellowship: https://www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/finra-foundation-military-spouse-fellowship/
Military Saves: https://militarysaves.org/
Military Saves Toolkit: https://militarysaves.org/organizations/military-saves-month/military-saves-month-2021-digital-toolkit
American Saves Week Digital Toolkit: https://americasavesweek.org/america-saves-week-digital-toolkit-2021/
Tips For Spending Your Stimulus Check: https://americasaves.org/blog/1750-4-steps-to-spending-your-stimulus-check-wisely-when-you-don-t-have-an-emergency-fund
Split to save: https://splittosave.org/

Resources:
AFCPE Free Financial Coaching: https://www.afcpe.org/free-financial-counseling-or-coaching/

AFCPE Membership:
https://www.afcpe.org/membership/
Find an AFC professional:
https://www.afcpe.org/find-an-afcpe-certified-professional/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Special Edition: John Sileo’s Key to Unlocking Cyber Security

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Following up on last month's episode with Axton-Betz Hamilton, this special edition episode focuses on identity theft and cybersecurity. Cyber Security specialist John Sileo joins Real Money, Real Experts co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson to talk about how he personally was a victim of identity theft and why he's so passionate about helping others.

John is a Harvard graduate, award-winning author, and a nationally renowned speaker who's appeared on Rachel Ray, Anderson Cooper, Dr. Oz, and Fox and friends. He is also a frequent contributor to USA Today, The Washington Post, and Kiplinger. John is now the CEO of the Sileo Group, which is a high tech think tank.

Show Notes:
00:52 Intro John Sileo
02:17 John's path to cybersecurity
04:43 Cybersecurity crimes in John's personal life
15:06 Cybertheft effects on personal relationships
17:10 Top tips to protect against identity theft
20:53 Identify theft and the pandemic
23:25 Identity theft insurance
25:54 Tips for financial counselors and coaches
27:59 Your Two Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with John:
Sileo.com
Facebook
LinkedIn
Youtube

Password Manager Options:
https://1password.com/
https://www.dashlane.com/
Credit Freeze with all 3 credit bureaus:
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0497-credit-freeze-faqs

Turn on two-factor authentication for anything online if possible: financial, investment, email, etc.: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/twofactor-authentication-2fa.asp
Use Password Managers:https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-password-managers Recommend: https://www.dashlane.com, https://1password.com/

Credit Monitoring: https://www.annualcreditreport.com
Identity Theft Insurance: Can buy through your homeowner’s insurance
https://www.ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams-consumer-advice

AFCPE Membership:
https://www.afcpe.org/membership/
Find an AFC professional:
https://www.afcpe.org/find-an-afcpe-certified-professional/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Facebook Live: Ask Us Anything

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0500

In this Facebook live recording, Real Money, Real Expert co-hosts Dr. Mary Bell Carlson and Rebecca Wiggins talk through highlights of past episodes and take listener questions live on Facebook.

*Note this episode was pre-recorded during a live event on January 19th.

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Supporting our Military Families During COVID

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk with AFC® Meredith Lozar. Meredith has an extensive career working for Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Blue Star Families, National Military Family Association, and DOD Spouse Education and Career Opportunities. Currently, Meredith is the Director of Military Spouse Programs for Hiring our Heroes, and she is also the president for the AFCPE board of directors.

The three discuss the financial impacts the Coronavirus has had on military spouses including a higher unemployment rate, historically lower savings, and childcare challenges. They look at what can be done to help with these issues and how the AFC® designation lends itself to being part of the solution.

Show Notes:
00:52 Intro Meredith Lozar
01:40 COVID's impact on military families
04:03 The AFC® as part of the solution
05:47 The effect of childcare on military spouse employment
08:05 how employment affects self-esteem/financial readiness
09:12 US Chamber Foundation Study results
10:23 Financially preparing for an emergency
16:35 Importance of volunteerism
18:46 Financial Resources for military families
20:14 Meredith’s Role as President
23:01 Your Two Cents

Show Note Links:

Hiring our Heroes: https://www.hiringourheroes.org/
Military Spouse Road Map: https://www.milspouseroadmap.org/
Military Spouse Road Map Research: https://www.milspouseroadmap.org/research/#read-report
Getting the AFC® designation: https://www.afcpe.org/certification/accredited-financial-counselor/
FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship: https://www.afcpe.org/career-and-resource-center/finra-foundation-military-spouse-fellowship/
AFCPE Membership: https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Find a financial AFC professional for help:
Find an AFC professional: https://www.afcpe.org/find-an-afcpe-certified-professional/
Military One Source Financial & Legal Help: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From Victim to Advocate: Axton Betz-Hamilton's Journey with Identity Theft

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0500

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Axton Betz-Hamilton, AFC®, Assistant Professor of Consumer Affairs at South Dakota State University, and author of "The Less People Know About Us."

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Axton about her personal experience with identity theft, specifically familial and child identity theft, how the law has changed to protect victims; and how financial counselors can better support those who have been affected.

Show Notes:
00:52 Intro Axton
05:37 "The Less People Know About Us"
11:18 The mental effects of identity theft
14:20 What financial professionals should know
18:70 Axton's personal experience with child identity theft
24:40 Rebuilding after a two-decade crime
31:30 Your Two Cents

Show Note links:

The Less People Know About Us book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NL6MD9X

South Dakota State University’s Consumer Affairs program: https://www.sdstate.edu/consumer-sciences/consumer-affairs

New York Times Book Review: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/15/books/review/the-less-people-know-about-us-axton-betz-hamilton.html

NPR Book Review: https://www.npr.org/2019/10/20/771358674/in-the-less-people-know-about-us-a-mysterious-identity-theft-hits-close-to-home

Identity Theft Resource Center: https://www.idtheftcenter.org/

Federal Trade Commission’s Report Identity Theft: https://www.identitytheft.gov/

AFCPE Membership: https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From the Ground Up: Starting a Private Practice and Navigating State Registrations

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0500

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Andrea Clark and Adrienne Ross, who are both owners of private practices, as well as members of the U.S. military community.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Andrea and Adrienne about their complementary certifications, the complicated distinction between investment education and advice, registering as an RIA, and other important questions around compliance. Both Andrea and Adrienne offer a wealth of information for those interested in starting a private practice.

Show Notes:
00:52 Intro Adrienne and Andrea
05:43 Creating a support system
08:52 Working with the military community
10:28 Compliance and registering as an RIA
15:00 Education versus advice
19:16 State by state registration requirements
29:50 What Andrea & Adrienne wish they knew
36:00 Your Two Cents
38:00 Final notes about registrations

Contact Your Regulator: https://www.nasaa.org/contact-your-regulator/
Series 65 Study Guide: https://www.nasaa.org/exams/study-guides/series-65-study-guide/
https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series65
Starting a business: https://www.kitces.com/blog/financial-coaching-what-it-is-and-how-to-become-one/
Registering a firm: https://www.kitces.com/blog/registered-investment-adviser-requirements-series-65-exam-timing/XYPN: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com
MFAA: http://militaryfinancialadvisors.org
Table Financial Planning: https://thetablefinancialplanning.com/
Clear Insight Financial Planning: https://mycifp.com/
Garrett Planning Network: https://www.garrettplanningnetwork.com/

AFCPE Membership: https://www.afcpe.org/membership/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Economic Self-Sufficiency: How Financial Professionals Support Individuals with Disabilities

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0500

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Michael Roush, Director of the Center for Disability Inclusive Community Development at the National Disability Institute.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Michael about how financial coaches and counselors can best serve people in the disability community.

*Show Notes*
00:50 Intro Michael Roush
05:10 Defining disability
08:19 Accessibility vs. equity
12:10 Why counsel individuals with disabilities
14:55 Building awareness among coaches
18:10 Impact of COVID-19
21:12 Disability resources coaches should know about
23:11 NDI & AFCPE® Financial Inclusion Essentials
26:41 Your Two Cents

Show Note links:

National Disability Institute: www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org

Race, Ethnicity, and Disability Brief - https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/reports/research-brief-race-ethnicity-and-disability/

FDIC and Disability Unbanked and Underbanked Report

https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/reports/banking-status-and-financial-behaviors-2019/

Financial Inclusion Essentials: https://www.afcpe.org/education-and-training/financial-inclusion-essentials/

Americans Disabilities Act from the Department of Justice: https://www.ada.gov/

ABLE Accounts: https://www.ablenrc.org/

NDI’s information on ABLE Accounts: https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/financial-wellness/able-accounts/

Virtual Financial Counseling/Coaching Initiative: https://www.yellowribbonnetwork.org/afcpecovid19

NDI’s Financial Resilience Center: https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/financial-resilience-center/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Moving Students Out of the Red and Into the Black

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0500

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Shelby Henderson and Tiffany Murray from Texas Tech University's Red to Black® Peer to Peer Financial Coaching Program.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Tiffany and Shelby about the effectiveness of peer-to-peer programs, and the ripple effect that financial knowledge can have.

*Show Notes*
00:45 Intro Tiffany and Shelby
02:18 What is Red to Black®
06:11 Shelby's background as a student
07:58 Tiffany's career change
12:04: Students' biggest financial challenges
15:18 Knowledge Bowl
17:11 How more universities can make it work
22:06 Sitting for the AFC® as a student
26:52 Student success stories
30:19 Your Two Cents
34:43 Reflecting on the ripple effect

Show Links:

Texas Tech University’s Red to Black program: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/r2b/

Texas Tech’s Financial Planning Program: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/hs/pfp/

Student Financial Literacy: Campus-Based Program Development by Drs. Dottie Durband and Sonya Britt Lutter: https://www.amazon.com/Student-Financial-Literacy-Campus-Based-Development/dp/1461435048

Follow Red to Black on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/red-to-black/

AFCPE Symposium Registration: https://www.afcpe.org/symposium/

AFC Certification Overview & Registration: https://www.afcpe.org/certification/accredited-financial-counselor/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

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Recognizing the Issue of Intimate Partner Violence with Sonya Passi

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Sonya Passi, Founder and CEO of FreeFrom, focusing on financial security and freedom for survivors of gender-based violence.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Sonya about the intricacies of gender-based and intimate partner violence, and how that impacts survivor's financial well-being.

*Show Notes*
00:45 Intro Sonya
03:54 Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence
08:19 What Violence and Survivors Look Like
11:04 Impact of COVID
15:14 Violence & Finances
17:06 About FreeFrom
23:05 What Employers Can Do
29:38 How Financial Coaches Can Confront Violence
36:26 Your Two Cents
39:07 Symposium

Show Notes:

FreeFrom: https://www.freefrom.org/

FreeFrom Safety Fund Report: https://bit.ly/Survivors-Know-Best

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

From Problem Solving to Problem Understanding with Carl Richards

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:00:00 -0400

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Carl Richards, Certified Financial Planner and creator of the Sketch Guy column in the New York Times.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Carl about adopting a 'problem understanding' mindset when working with clients and becoming a guide rather than a map defender. Carl also gives a preview of his presentation at this year's AFCPE Symposium.

*Show Notes*
00:45 Intro Carl
01:28 The Drawing Board
05:29: Building Client Rapport
07:16 How to Listen
14:59 The Art vs. The Science
18:58 Value in Financial Planning
21:28 Judgement & Competition
28:14 Sneak Peek of Symposium
30:10 Your Two Cents

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

If You Teach a Man to Fish ... Empowering Communities After COVID-19

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes Dr. Billy Hensley, CEO of the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE). Billy has a distinguished career in personal finance, philanthropy, and higher education and now leads NEFE in bringing financial access to all Americans.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Billy about how career, the impact of COVID-19 on personal finances, and the role that all financial professionals can play in lifting up communities.

*Show Notes*
00:45 About Billy
02:21 Personal Finance Access Issues
05:40 Growing Up In Appalachia
09:25 A Holistic Personal Finance Ecosystem
13:24 Knowing Yourself to Find Opportunities
15:17 The Future of NEFE
19:23 Creating Opportunity - 100 AFCs
23:53 Impact of COVID-19
27:30 Your Two Cents

Show Note links:

NEFE Website

https://www.nefe.org/

NEFE Personal Finance Ecosystem

https://www.nefe.org/about/our-philosophy/ecosystem/default.aspx

Racism, Bias and Economic Inequality Impair the Financial Well-Being of Millions

https://www.nefe.org/press-room/news/2020/racism-bias-economic-inequality-impair-financial-well-being-of-millions.aspx

With This Crisis Does Financial Literacy Even Matter?

https://www.nefe.org/press-room/news/2020/with-this-crisis-does-financial-literacy-matter.aspx

Politics is Hindering the Effectiveness of Financial Education

https://www.nefe.org/press-room/news/2019/politics-hindering-effectiveness-of-financial-education.aspx

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Where Race & Gender Intersect: Why the Wealth Gap is Widening and How to Help

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0400

This week, Real Money, Real Experts welcomes two special guests to talk about two very important, and intersecting concepts. Dedrick Asante-Muhammad and Heather McCulloch join us to talk about racial and gender wealth gaps: what they are, why they exist, how they intersect, and what financial coaches and counselors can do to help their clients overcome them.

Dedrick is the Chief of Race, Wealth, and Community at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, and Heather is the Founder and Executive Director of Closing the Women's Wealth Gap.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Dedrick and Heather about their careers, and how they've come to be experts on racial and gender wealth gaps.

*Show Notes*
03:08 About Heather
05:36 About Dedrick
07:49 The Gender Wealth Gap
12:05 The Racial Wealth Gap
14:10 COVID's Impact on Race
19:19 COVID's Impact on Gender
22:31 Moving Women Forward
25:02 Moving Racial Minorities Forward
26:50 Balancing Private and Public Assets
27:33 How Financial Professionals Can Help
33:14 Your Two Cents

CNN piece with Jennifer Siebel Newsom

https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/06/perspectives/women-economic-policies-coronavirus/index.html

Slate with Kilolo Kijakazi

https://slate.com/human-interest/2018/05/gender-inequality-closing-the-wealth-gap-is-critical-to-future-financial-security.html

- Report by CWWG Deputy Director, Dominique Derbigny.

- Report by Jocelyn Frye, Sr. Fellow at the Center for American Progress

- Spotlight on Poverty commentary by the Dominique and Jocelyn

- Article on the Color and Gender of COVID by Professor Catherine Powell of Fordham

CWWG paper by Dominique Derbigny:

https://womenswealthgap.org/report/

CWWG Framing Paper:

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

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Addressing Racial Wealth Equity in the Field of Finance

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0400

This week Real Money, Real Experts welcome guest Darren Liddell. Darren's extensive background involves everything from non-profit to tax preparation to extensive work as a racial wealth equity advocate. Liddell has been working in the financial security field for over 8 years. Most recently, Darren served at The Financial Clinic as Director of Program Innovation. In this role, he oversaw the services, data, and policy teams, while providing innovative direction to the Clinic’s new and existing local and national programs.

Co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk to Darren about his financial path and how to address racial wealth equity in the field of finance.

*Show Notes*
00:51 About Darren
07:36 Turning Experience into Opportunity
08:21 Tax Prep and the Pandemic
09:12 VITA Services
11:15 Racial Inequality in Finance
13:11 Building Wealth for Your Clients
15:33 Policy and advocacy as a way to address racial wealth equity
21:04 Fintech and the Racial Wealth Gap
25:17 Getting involved in non-profit
26:41 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:
University of Georgia's Financial Planning Program: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/financial-planning
United Way’s Financial Coaching Program: https://www.unitedway.org/our-impact/focus/income
NeighborWorks America: https://www.neighborworks.org/
University of Georgia’s VITA program: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/fhce/vita
Internal Revenue Service’s VITA Programs: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-vita-grant-program
The Financial Clinic: https://thefinancialclinic.org/
Catalyst Miami: https://www.catalystmiami.org/
Prosperity Now: https://prosperitynow.org/
Road to Zero (Racial Wealth Equity Data): https://prosperitynow.org/resources/road-zero-wealth
SaverLife: https://www.saverlife.org/
Brunch and Budget: https://brunchandbudget.com/
See Change: https://seechangefinancial.com/
Propel: https://www.joinpropel.com/
Join AFCPE’s Government Relations Committee: https://www.afcpe.org/afcpe-member-task-forces/

We want to hear from you, so be sure to visit our website and follow us on social media!
Facebook/AFCPE | Tweet us @AFCPE | Join us on LinkedIn
Tell us what you're thinking and use #realmoneyrealexperts

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

AFC + CFP: Complementary credentials for maximum impact

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 09:00:00 -0400

This week co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson talk with Justin Chidester, AFC® and CFP® about the art of private practice. In a time when virtual meetings have become essential, Justin has mastered how to manage remote clients with his practice spanning over 13 states and three countries. The episode dives into Justin's journey from non-profit to private practice and takes a look at what the path looks like from college to fee-only financial planning and helping clients achieve their financial goals.

*Show Notes*
00:52 About Justin
01:52 Starting Wealth Mode Financial Planning
02:50 Financial Adviser vs. Financial Planner
04:29 From non-profit to private practice
05:06 Fee-only financial planning
10:22 How to serve as both and AFC® and CFP®
17:17 Growing your client base
21:35 AFCPE® Symposium Conference
27:28 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:
AFC® Certification: https://www.afcpe.org/certification/accredited-financial-counselor/
Wealth Mode Financial Planning: https://www.wealth-mode.com/
XY Planning Network: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/
AFCPE® Symposium: https://www.afcpe.org/symposium/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Leading in (Financial) Crisis: Lessons from AFCPE® President Ryan Law

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 15:00:00 -0400

In this jam-packed episode, co-hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson had the opportunity to sit down with AFCPE® President Ryan Law. They talk about everything from how Ryan founded his first student money management center, to what it's like to lead AFCPE® during the year of a global pandemic. Tune in as Ryan shares his path to success and resources for what got him to where he is today as well as essential tips on student loans.

*Show Notes*
01:22 About Ryan Law
06:04 Founding of the Utah Valley Student Money Management Center
10:08 Money Management Centers for non-profits
10:49 Tips for opening your own business
13:31 Student Loans and the Cares Act
16:16 Keys things to know about paying off student loans
17:24 College Finance Essentials Program
**members get $25 off of all of our essentials courses**
20:33 About AFCPE®
22:19 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:
AFCPE® Symposium: https://www.afcpe.org/symposium/
College Finance Essentials: https://www.afcpe.org/education-and-training/college-finance-essentials/
Ryan Law Website: https://ryanhlaw.com/
Student Loan Planning Book: https://www.amazon.com/Student-Loan-Planning-Borrowers-Understanding/dp/1718079435

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Lights, Camera, Finance!

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400

From a career in the performing arts to managing a finance business and Emmy Award-Winning PBS show, Julia Lorenz-Olson takes listeners through her career in finance and how she uses her background to help her clients. In this episode, cohosts, Rebecca Wiggins, and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson discuss the tools and resources that helped Lorenz-Olson get to where she is today and the current state of the economy.

Julia is a Swiss/Texan who was born for the stage. She ADORES getting to use those talents to empower and inspire others to take charge of their own financial destiny. Spending several years in the mortgage industry gave her number-crunching confidence and a unique insight into Real Estate and lending.

*Show Notes*
01:22 About Julia Lorenz-Olson
07:15 The Start of PBS' Two Cents Show
10:11 Making finance fun
12:02 Connecting with the AFC® designation
14:12 Money as a tool for self-awareness
18:07 Managing a business as a couple
22:00 How COVID is affecting money management
26:03 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:
PBS Two Cents: https://www.pbs.org/show/two-cents/

The Art of Finance: https://theartoffinance.biz/about/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Coaching in the Field of Finance

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, cohosts, Rebecca Wiggins, and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson discuss the Financial Fitness Coaching (FFC®) designation, how it came to be, and its role in the financial field. Featuring guest Saundra Davis, MSFP, APFC®, the three dive deep into the history of Financial Coaching and how it's impacting individuals today.

Saundra unpacks a lot of her journey and explains how Financial Coaching provides a person with the self-efficacy to take control of their finances in their own life and instead of treating people as though they are broken, she believes in helping them restore their commitment to their own financial goals. We are looking forward to your thoughts on the FFC® share them with us at AFCPE.org and on social media using #realmoneyrealexperts.

*Show Notes*
00:52 About Saundra Davis
6:40 Saundra's path to financial coaching
12:07 The difference in coaching in finance
25:24 The beginning of the AFCPE® and FFC® partnership
32:07 Future of the FFC®
35:57 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:

More information about FFC®: https://www.afcpe.org/certification-and-training/financial-fitness-coach/

Sage Financial Solutions: http://sagefinancialsolutions.org/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

When Emergency Strikes: How to be Financially Prepared

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Co-Hosts Rebecca Wiggins and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson interview AFC® Sara Croymans about the essentials of financial emergency preparedness. Sara, who was instrumental in developing AFCPE®'s partnership with FEMA, draws on her experience counseling disaster survivors, gamblers, and military service members and how to provide the best service to these clients. Tune in to the conversation and share your thoughts at AFCPE.org.

*Show Notes*
00:52 About Sara Croymans
01:41 Interview with Sara Croymans
18:44 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:

Disaster toolkit
https://extension.umn.edu/

FEMA Financial First Aid Kit
https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/96123

COVID-19 Financial Professionals Initiative
https://www.afcpe.org/covid19/

AFCPE Award Nomination
https://www.afcpe.org/resource-center/funding-and-recognition/awards/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Financial Empathy: What it Means and How to Show it

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, cohosts, Rebecca Wiggins, and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson discuss the importance of financial empathy and today's current events. This week's guest, Dr. Michael Thomas is an AFC®, with a Ph.D. in Financial Planning from the University of Georgia, and is now a lecturer at the University of Georgia. He also has his own virtual Financial Counseling & Coaching business - Modom Solutions.

Dr. Thomas takes us through his experience with financial empathy, the power of listening, and how we can learn to incorporate these not only into our professional careers but also into the communities where we work at serve at such a needed time. We unpack a lot in this episode and are looking forward to your thoughts and insights. Share them with us at AFCPE.org and on social media using #realmoneyrealexperts.

*Show Notes*
02:04 About Dr. Michael Thomas
12:33 What is financial empathy
18:47 How to apply financial empathy in your practice
28:04 Current events discussion
35:27 How to get ignite change in your community
38:45 Your Two Cents
43:14 AFCPE® announcements

Resource Links:
Financial Empathy TEDTalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hoM5ly2igk

Modom Solutions: https://www.modomsolutions.com/

The Things They Carried book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/things-they-carried-tim-obrien/1100228685

When Helping Hurts book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-helping-hurts-steve-corbett/1100394501

Facebook/AFCPE | Tweet us @AFCPE | Join us on LinkedIn
Tell us what you're thinking and use #realmoneyrealexperts

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Special Edition: Helping Americans financially during the COVID-19 pandemic

Tue, 26 May 2020 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Dr. Mary Bell Carlson and Rebecca Wiggins interview Darlene Goins, Head of Financial Wealth Philanthropy for Wells-Fargo. The three discuss the impact of Coronavirus on the financial planning community and the partnership between AFCPE and Wells-Fargo. Listen in to hear how you can help support your clients and get involved in the conversation at AFCPE.org.

*Show Notes*
00:52 About Darlene Goins
01:41 Interview with Darlene Goins
18:44 Your Two Cents

Resource Links:
AFCPE Wells Fargo Project for free virtual financial counseling/coaching: https://www.afcpe.org/covid19/

Client page to access AFCPE Professionals: https://www.yellowribbonnetwork.org/afcpecovid19

AFCPE Member Forum: https://afcpe.connectedcommunity.org/

Wells Fargo Hands on Banking: https://handsonbanking.org/

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Welcome to Real Money, Real Experts

Thu, 21 May 2020 15:00:00 -0400

In this pilot episode of Real Money, Real Experts, you will meet co-hosts AFCPE® Executive Director Rebecca Wiggins, and CEO of Chief Financial Mom, Dr. Mary Bell Carlson. Join them as they talk about their journey in the finance profession and talk about upcoming guests and topics of Real Money, Real Experts.

*Show Notes*
02:01 About Rebecca
03:49 About AFCPE
05:33 About Mary
12:50 Your Two Cents

We want to hear from you, so be sure to visit our website and follow us on social media!
Facebook/AFCPE | Tweet us @AFCPE | Join us on LinkedIn
Tell us what you're thinking and use #realmoneyrealexperts

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.