The BetterWallet

Join me in this episode as I sit down with the talented comedian Raj Suresh. We delve into his unique journey from a business major at Penn State to pursuing a career in comedy. Raj shares his cultural pressures and the importance of finding mentors like Zarna Garg to navigate the comedy world. We also discuss his recent TV special, "Break the Leg," and the power of consistent content creation. Get ready for a laughter-filled and inspiring conversation!Timestamps:[00:00] Intro[02:45] Raj's journey.[09:16] Raj's first impression of Marc.[18:30] Seeking a therapist.[22:35] From business to comedy.[31:40] Find a mentor.[34:50] Wrapping up.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode of the BetterWallet podcast, I have a fascinating conversation with Yanely Espinal, the author of "Mind Your Money." Yanely shares her inspiring journey from uncertainty to becoming a successful personal finance writer. We discuss the importance of understanding your money mindset and the cognitive biases that can affect your financial decisions. Yanely also provides valuable tips on taking control of your financial future and the power of starting small. This episode is a must-listen if you're looking for insights on building financial resilience and success.Timestamps:[00:00] Intro[01:30] Yanely starts a YouTube channel.[05:40] Recent wins in advocacy.[11:50] Importance of broader goals.[19:40] Yanely's hesitation to write in 2020.[23:00] Target audience discussion.[26:00] Chapter two: "Get Your Mind Right."[28:00] Introduction to the "future you" concept.[29:00] Binding contract with your future self.[30:00] Importance of starting financial goals.[36:10] Changing you who follow.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this captivating episode of the BetterWallet podcast, I sit down with the brilliant Andre Haynes to explore the keys to financial freedom. We dive deep into financial strategies, investing, and mindset shifts that can help you achieve your financial goals. Tune in to gain valuable insights and take your financial journey to the next level.Timestamps:[00:00] Intro[01:05] Andre Haynes[03:56] From projects to real estate educator[11:35] Getting tough skin[14:48] Being real with yourself[18:00] Pros of NACA[21:32] Home buying process[23:15] Qualify for NACA[26:45] Cons of NACA[34:10] Limitations on selling?[34:50] Closing--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode of the BetterWallet Podcast, we're joined by Raya Reaves, the budgeting guru behind City Girl Savings. With summer spending behind us, Raya shares practical tips and insights on how to transition into the fall season with a frugal mindset.Discover how to prepare for holiday spending, save for your financial goals, and take control of your money as we approach the end of the year. Plus, learn about Raya's free Frugal Fall Savings Challenge to help you get your finances in order before the holidays.Timestamps:[01:10] Intro and Icebreaker[02:40] Safari vs. Google[04:00] Fear of Komodo Dragons[05:30] City Girl Savings[07:00] Financial Rock Bottom[09:00] Temporary Sacrifice[10:00] Discretionary Income[11:00] Frugal Mindset[12:30] Spending Study[14:20] Frugal Savings Challenge[15:20] Hot Girl, Hot Boy Summer[19:30] Closing--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode, we dive deep into the world of tax strategies with our special guest, Grant Doherty, a tax advisor based in Houston, Texas. Grant shares valuable insights into three tax strategies that can help you legally reduce your tax liability. This episode provides essential tips for optimizing your finances, from supercharging your retirement savings to leveraging the home office deduction and the power of cost segregation for real estate investors.Timestamps:[02:50] Grant's introduction to taxes[06:50] Number one tax strategy[11:10] Number two tax strategy[17:30] Number three tax strategy[20:50] Deducting a loss on your taxes[24:25] Spend a dollar to save a dime[25:50] Grant's ebook[27:10] Closing--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Welcome to the latest episode of the BetterWallet podcast. You know the drill - we're all about unraveling the mystery of money and sharing empowering stories from those who've beaten the odds. Today, I'm excited to dive into my recent experience at InvestFest. This incredible event in Atlanta brings financial professionals, community members, and celebrities together to chat about finance, investment, and wealth generation. It's particularly tailored for the black community, and it was a fantastic chance for me to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and spread some financial wisdom. I'll walk you through my time at InvestFest, my inspiring encounters, and the lessons I took home. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights!Timestamps:[00:40] - Conference Introduction and Purpose[01:20] - Teaching About Index Funds[02:30] - Impactful Debt Payoff Testimony[03:40] - Meeting Inspirational Figures in Finance[04:40] - Connecting with Mentors and Creators[05:50] - Importance of Being Authentic[06:50] - Recap of Key Learnings[08:00] - Anticipation for Next Year[09:10] - Financial Education Empowerment[10:20] - Inspiring Student Stories Shared[11:30] - Lesson on Limiting Taxes[12:40] - Closing Thoughts on Authenticity--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Welcome to another episode of the BetterWallet Podcast. In today's discussion, I'll reveal the number one financial mistake that many people unknowingly make, and it's not about budgeting or investing. This mistake could lead to giving away money to someone you might not want to benefit. Join me as I delve into real-life scenarios, explain the importance of beneficiaries, and provide actionable steps to ensure your financial assets go to the right hands.Timestamps:[03:10] Divorce impact on beneficiaries.[05:20] Trust vs. beneficiary conflict.[06:40] Choose trustworthy and capable beneficiaries.[08:00] Avoid minor children as beneficiaries.[09:30] Updating beneficiaries after life events.[10:50] Beneficiary overrides will and trust.[12:20] Yearly review of beneficiary designations.[14:10] Financial empowerment through informed decisions.[15:20] Listener's success story with debt-free journey.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Join me in this enlightening episode as I sit down with finance expert Rajat Soni to dissect the complexities of debt, credit, investing, and the potential financial challenges ahead. We explore topics ranging from credit card debt hitting record highs to the global impact of diversified investments. Get ready to gain insights that will empower you to make informed financial decisions and secure your financial future.Timestamps:[10:30] - Understanding the GIC concept[15:20] - Impact of inflation on debt[18:40] - Savings vs. investing strategies[23:00] - Risks of early withdrawal penalties[28:00] - Consumer debt comparison, US vs. Canada[33:10] - Debt-driven consumption and consequences[36:30] - US debt challenges and potential bubbles[40:20] - Diversifying investments for stability[44:00] - Rajat's online presence and resources[46:30] - Exploring financial market disruptors[49:40] - Importance of financial literacy education[53:10] - Making informed financial decisionsConnect with Rajat:Twitter: Twitter.com/rajatsonifnanceInstagram: Instagram.com/rajatsonifinanceThreads: Threads.net/rajatsonifinanceCourse: Courses.rajatsonifinance.comNewsletter: Rajatsonifinance.com--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Welcome to the BetterWallet podcast! In this episode, I will break down a crucial topic that often goes unnoticed—your vesting schedule. You might be unfamiliar with the term, but it holds significant implications for your financial future. Join me as I break down the ins and outs of vesting schedules, their impact on your retirement savings, and why they deserve your attention.Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction to vesting schedules.[01:50] - Matching contributions explained clearly.[04:40] - Different types of vesting schedules.[06:50] - Graded vesting over several years.[09:20] - Reasons behind employer vesting schedules.[11:40] - Importance of diversity and inclusion.[13:40] - Personal example of potential loss.[15:40] - Taking proactive action to understand.[17:50] - Employers won't remind you.[19:40] - Implications of leaving early.[21:30] - Encouragement for rating and review.[22:00] - Signing off the BetterWallet podcast.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode, I'll take you through my journey and share why this topic is so close to my heart. Growing up without a financial safety net, I learned the hard way about the importance of investing. Now, I want to help others do it right from the get-go. I'll cover everything from 529 accounts and tax benefits to strategic investment approaches.So if you're a parent, future parent, or even considering adoption like me, this episode is a must-listen. Let's secure our kids' financial future together! Don't forget to rate and review the podcast – your support means the world to me. See you in the episode!Timestamps:[00:30] Demystifying money and investing.[03:20] Passion for Vanguard's 529 program.[05:40] Setting up a 529 account.[06:50] Tax-free transfer to child.[08:10] Avoiding aggressive investing for kids.[09:30] Excess 529 money to Roth IRA.[10:40] Free financial bulletproof checklist.[12:20] The power of time in investing.[13:40] Rate and review the podcast.[14:20] Making investing accessible for all.[14:50] Helping future generations succeed financially.[15:20] Investing for a brighter future.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Hey, everyone! It's Marc Russell, and I'm super excited to share my recent adventure with you all. In the last episode, I talked about my concerns about flying to Bali and being off the radar for a whole week, but guess what? Everything turned out fantastic! I celebrated being 100% debt-free in Bali for three years, and it was a blast. I met incredible people from all over the world and had some mind-opening experiences. Now, I want to pass on the knowledge I gained during my trip, so I have ten essential tips for anyone planning an international journey. From wearing a mask on the flight to understanding the exchange rate, I've got you covered. Plus, I discovered the magic of hiring a private chef, which made life so much easier. Listen in and get prepared for your international adventure!Timestamps:[00:20] - Concerns about flying to Bali. [01:00]- Lessons learned during the trip.[02:20] - Meeting people from different countries. [03:40] - Gratitude in Balinese culture.[05:10] - Preparing for an international trip.[06:30] - Wearing a mask during flights. [07:30] - Pack emergency supplies for the trip. [08:40] - Confirm availability of in-flight wifi. [09:50] - Download Netflix for offline viewing.[11:00] - Bring your favorite snacks for the flight.[12:30] - Know the exchange rate before traveling. [20:10] - Hiring a private chef for convenience. Check out Episode 44  with Ryan Francis: Being Financially Safe in an Uncertain World--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode, I will demystify the concept of Roth IRAs and share powerful insights on how they can be utilized to fund college expenses, cover medical bills, and even contribute to purchasing a first home. Together, we will explore the flexibility and advantages that Roth IRAs bring to the table, allowing us to make smart financial decisions and shape a brighter future.Whether you're a student seeking clarity or curious about the potential of Roth IRAs, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to leverage these tax-advantaged accounts effectively. Don't miss out on learning how to optimize your financial strategies and unlock the benefits of Roth IRAs for a more secure and prosperous tomorrow.Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction to the BetterWallet podcast.[00:10] - Exploring the topic of Roth IRAs.[00:30] - My childhood experience of Roth IRAs.[01:00] - Roth IRAs as tax vehicles for retirement savings.[02:00] - Tax benefits.[04:00] - Withdraw contributions from a Roth IRA tax-free.[05:10] - Rules and penalties.[06:10] - Early withdrawals from a Roth IRA.[07:20] - Roth IRA and a 529 plan for college expenses.[08:30] - Roth IRA for medical expenses.[09:40] - Use up to $10,000 from a Roth IRA for a first home.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Join me on an intimate journey as I share my anticipation, nerves, and preparations for my upcoming adventure to Bali. In this unfiltered episode of the BetterWallet Podcast, I go into the reasons behind my desire to travel, the profound significance of achieving debt freedom, and my eagerness to immerse myself in diverse cultures. As I open up about leaving my business temporarily and facing my fear of flying, I invite you to join me on this transformative experience of self-discovery and connection. Get ready to explore Bali with me and witness the highs, lows, and everything in between as I embark on this thrilling journey.Timestamps:[00:30] - Marc's upcoming trip to Bali: Excitement and nerves.[03:20] - Kelvin, Marc's friend and travel companion.[04:00] - Bali plans and Lux Week.[05:20] - Balancing work and taking time off.[06:00] - Anticipation of yacht trip and other events in Bali.[07:10] - Meeting new people from different walks of life.[07:50] - Excitement for trying Indonesian cuisine.[08:50] - Nervousness about leaving the business for a week.[09:40] - Nervousness about flying and turbulence.[10:20] - Benefits of leaving the business and delegating tasks.[11:10] - Learning about different cultures in Bali.[12:00] - Nervousness turns into joy after overcoming challenges.[13:00] - Balancing the desire for control and traveling.[15:10] - Preparation: Using Google Fi for international travel.[16:10] - Considerations when choosing a phone plan for travel.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode of the BetterWallet podcast, I take you on my journey to becoming debt-free and share how it has profoundly transformed my life. Join me as I discuss the challenges, sacrifices, and ultimate rewards of achieving debt freedom and how I am now using my money to shape a better future, make informed present choices, and recover from past financial mistakes.[00:00] - Podcast introduction[00:30] - Importance of paying off debt[01:50] - Living paycheck to paycheck[02:30] - Challenges faced during debt-free journey[03:10] - Making short-term sacrifices for long-term prosperity[04:00] - Setting a goal of becoming debt-free by 2020[05:10] - Investing for the future after becoming debt-free[06:00] - Reinvesting money into the business[06:50] - No longer needing $1,500 for monthly expenses[07:20] - Understanding personal monthly expenses for starting a business[12:45] - Investing in health and wellness[16:50] - Wrap up of the episode--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---Welcome back to Part 2 of Marc's journey to discovering and reconnecting with his biological father. Today, Marc recounts his experiences growing up in foster care, meeting his biological mother, and the lingering questions about his true paternal identity. Marc dives into the aftermath of taking the DNA tests, the anxiety that came with that & how he has learned to build relationships with his biological father and create stronger connections to his roots.Timestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction to Marc's story.[00:00:30] Teaser about finding biological dad.[00:01:30] Marc's preemie birth and assumption of his biological father.[00:03:00] Visiting biological mom and getting to know siblings.[00:04:20] Full circle moment of working in Philly near family.[00:05:20] Curiosity about family background and ancestry.[00:06:30] Decision to take a DNA test for family information.[00:07:40] Fear and anticipation before receiving DNA test results.[00:08:50] Unveiling potential unknown family connections.[00:09:20] Teaser for part two of finding biological father story.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---This two-part episode of the BetterWallet podcast is a journey unlike any other, as host Marc Russell opens up about his personal life and shares the remarkable story of how he reconnected with his biological father. In part 1, listeners will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster as Marc recounts his experiences growing up in foster care, meeting his biological mother, and finally discovering the truth about his true paternal identity.Along the way, Marc highlights the impactful moments that shaped him and ultimately led to finding answers to questions that had been lingering for years. Tune in now and prepare to be captivated by this compelling story of self-discovery!Timestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction to Marc's journey[00:02:00] Assuming who my dad was[00:03:30] Building a relationship with biological mom and siblings[00:04:20] Full circle moment[00:06:00] Curiosity about family background and migration[00:07:30] Fear and apprehension before taking the DNA test[00:08:20] Unveiling Pandora's Box[00:09:10] Don't miss part 2--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode of the Better Wallet podcast, host Marc discusses transitioning from a bear market to a bull market, emphasizing the importance of investing during the bull market phase. He explains the concept of market cycles, shares insights from his background as a financial advisor, and highlights the benefits of staying invested. Marc encourages listeners to take advantage of the current bull market, offering a free class on investing in index funds.Timestamps:[00:00:20] Bear-to-bull market transition.[00:00:50] How to position oneself in the bull market.[00:01:40] Rich people are buying during market downturns.[00:02:10] The market works in cycles like a tree.[00:03:00] Definition and significance of a bull market.[00:03:30] Bull market during COVID-19.[00:05:00] Doubling investments during the last bull market.[00:06:10] The shortest bull market since 1932.[00:07:00] Joining the investing wave.[00:08:10] Market is still at an 8% discount from all-time highs.[00:09:20] Webinar teaching about investing in index funds.[00:12:10] Seizing opportunities in the bull market.--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode, host Marc Russell interviews guest Jared from DollarFor.org. They discuss the little-known option of charity care, a provision in the Affordable Care Act that allows nonprofit hospitals to waive or reduce medical bills for eligible individuals. Jared explains how their organization helps patients navigate the complex process and advocates for them to have their medical debt eliminated.Timestamps:[07:18] Jared's story[09:35] Charity Care[13:05] Figuring out if you're eligible[16:45] Why aren't hospitals sharing this[19:35] Taxes on money forgiven[21:47] Dollar For processConnect with Jared:Website: DollarFor.OrgInstagram--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode, host Marc Russell interviews guest Kevin about his journey from growing up in a wealthy community to starting his own investment education company. They discuss the importance of simplifying investing, teaching financial literacy, and navigating the current financial landscape. Kevin shares valuable insights on investing in index funds, avoiding risky strategies, and investing for children's futures.Timestamps:[03:02] Kevin's biggest financial pet peeve[06:28] Black Wall Street[08:49] Deciding to get into teaching about money[11:21] BuildingBread[15:42] 3 ways to navigate finances in today's world[19:37] The wrong & right way to invest[27:11] Investing for your childrenConnect with Kevin:Social media: @BuildingBreadBuildingbread.com--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet

Check out my resources!Click Here To Join The Financially Bulletproof Investing Course! Click Here To Download my Free Financially Bulletproof Checklist---In this episode of the BetterWallet podcast, host Marc Russell and guest Vince discuss their journeys in overcoming financial obstacles. They emphasize the importance of resilience, adapting to change, and taking control of personal finances. With insights into the challenging market conditions and uncertain economic climate, they provide practical advice on building wealth, investing wisely, and preparing for potential recessions.Timestamps:[00:00] Intro[02:32] Vince's money mentor[06:58] School and sports[11:57] Deciding to get into finance[14:06] Getting into the real world and navigating money[17:35] Catching the entrepreneurial bug[26:30] Advice during a turbulent market era[31:25] How to prepare for market shifts[37:35] Overcoming fears and getting into the market[41:20] Closing and where to connect with Vince--- Connect with Me! Instagram: @BetterWallet TikTok: @BetterWallet Twitter: @TheBetterWallet YouTube: @BetterWallet