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Sunlight Tax
Sunlight Tax
Author: Hannah Cole
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© 2022
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Making money isn't usually the top priority for big vision creators — making a difference is.
But without financial power, the diverse and unique solutions that you bring to the world as a creative entrepreneur aren't able to see the light of day. And you are left burned out and exhausted.
This show is designed for the big vision creators —designers, freelancers, and purple-haired, punk rock weirdos — to answer the question: "If you had your taxes, retirement, and investing on lock, how big of an impact could you make on the world with your work?"
Your host, Hannah Cole, is both an artist and a tax expert, and the founder of Sunlight Tax. In each episode, she and her guests will explore the connection between financial power and creative success, uncovering the unique money mindset and financial management shifts that help creators like you have a bigger impact with your work. From what you need to know about self-employment taxes and bookkeeping, to unlocking your vision, you'll have everything you need to become more successful — and have a bigger impact — in your career.
Hannah has supported thousands of self-employed people like you with accessible tax and business setup skills through her signature program, Money Bootcamp. You can learn more at sunlighttax.com and connect on Instagram at @sunlighttax.
If this sounds good to you, please subscribe to the show, and share it with a friend.
But without financial power, the diverse and unique solutions that you bring to the world as a creative entrepreneur aren't able to see the light of day. And you are left burned out and exhausted.
This show is designed for the big vision creators —designers, freelancers, and purple-haired, punk rock weirdos — to answer the question: "If you had your taxes, retirement, and investing on lock, how big of an impact could you make on the world with your work?"
Your host, Hannah Cole, is both an artist and a tax expert, and the founder of Sunlight Tax. In each episode, she and her guests will explore the connection between financial power and creative success, uncovering the unique money mindset and financial management shifts that help creators like you have a bigger impact with your work. From what you need to know about self-employment taxes and bookkeeping, to unlocking your vision, you'll have everything you need to become more successful — and have a bigger impact — in your career.
Hannah has supported thousands of self-employed people like you with accessible tax and business setup skills through her signature program, Money Bootcamp. You can learn more at sunlighttax.com and connect on Instagram at @sunlighttax.
If this sounds good to you, please subscribe to the show, and share it with a friend.
189 Episodes
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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I explain what 1099 forms are, why accurate 1099 reporting matters, and how mistakes can impact your taxes if you're self-employed. I break down common 1099 problems and how to avoid them. I also share what to do when a 1099 is wrong and how to make sure all your income is properly reported to the IRS. We also cover key 1099 deadlines and practical bookkeeping tips to help freelancers, contractors, and small business owners stay compliant and avoid costly surprises at tax time. Also mentioned in today's episode: 01:12 Understanding 1099s: An Introduction 03:21 The Importance of Accurate Reporting 06:25 Common 1099 Problems and Solutions 08:57 Tallying Your Income Effectively 12:03 Some Tips for 1099 Management If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Join my free class on 1/27 at noon EST: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Get my short course: All About 1099s Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I break down the most important 2025 tax law changes in clear, jargon-free language. I explain the new Schedule 1-A and its temporary deductions, including no tax on tips, overtime, car loan interest, and enhanced senior deductions, plus what the latest tax bill really means for your wallet. You'll also learn about "Trump accounts" for children born 2025–2028, updated 1099 reporting rules, retirement catch-up contribution changes, and the higher standard deduction. This practical episode helps you understand key tax changes, which tax benefits apply to you, and how to avoid missing important deductions this tax season. Also mentioned in today's episode: 03:39 New Tax Forms and Deductions 06:44 Understanding the Schedule 1A 10:31 Trump Accounts: A New Initiative 13:14 Changes in 1099 Forms and Reporting 15:52 Updates on Standard Deductions and Child Tax Credit 18:47 Join my Upcoming Free Class If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Join my free class on 1/27: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I break down everything self-employed business owners need to know about 1099s – what they are, why they matter, and what's changed under current 1099 reporting rules. If you work with independent contractors, I walk you through a clear, step-by-step 1099 checklist to help you file correctly and on time. We cover why accurate bookkeeping is important, when and why to collect W-9 forms, and how to avoid common 1099 mistakes that can trigger IRS penalties. I also explain the different types of 1099 forms (including which ones apply to freelancers and small businesses), what each form is used for, and the penalties for failing to file or filing incorrectly. Also mentioned in today's episode: 01:00 Understanding 1099: The Basics 04:31 The Importance of 1099s 10:53 The kinds of 1099s you are going to be dealing with 18:20 Checklist for Issuing 1099s 25:45 Other Resources for filing 1099s If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Get my 1-hour course: All About 1099s Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I'm breaking down my most effective tax prep strategies to help creatives and entrepreneurs start the year organized, confident, and ahead of the game. I share my January setup to make your taxes a breeze. I'll give you the exact systems I recommend for simplifying tax season without overwhelm or guesswork – like tracking mileage and mileage logs, setting up a simple document filing system, knowing your 1099 requirements, and a receipt management workflow that's easy to maintain all year long. If you want to avoid costly tax mistakes and move through tax season smoothly, this episode gives you actionable tools you can implement right now. Whether you're self-employed, earning 1099 income, or running a creative business, you'll walk away with a clear plan for staying compliant, reducing stress, and setting yourself up for a better money year. Also mentioned in today's episode: 01:12 New Year, New Tax Strategies 03:13 Essential Tax Preparation Tips 09:44 Understanding 1099s and Deadlines 14:01 Setting Up a Business Bank Account 15:54 Organizing Receipts for Tax Season 19:28 Other Resources If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Get your free January Checklist The Sunlight Tax Podcast EP4: Mileage: the best deduction you're missing Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I share core personal finance strategies for creative entrepreneurs, artists, and business owners. Learn the right order of operations for managing money, why an emergency fund is essential, practical debt management tips, and simple ways to start investing with low-cost index funds. Join me today to hear some basic steps to control your finances and how you can start investing today. Also mentioned in today's episode: 00:23 Navigating Life's Unexpected Challenges 01:19 Understanding Personal Finance Order of Operations 04:01 The Basics of Personal Finance 07:55 Debt Management Strategies 08:48 Prioritizing Savings for Retirement and Education 10:13 Investing Basics and Strategies 13:25 Empowering Financial Education and Resources If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
On this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I dive into why tax literacy is crucial and how understanding the basics can save you thousands of dollars. I explain how tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs, HSAs, and retirement savings plans work, and why they're some of the most powerful tools for building long-term wealth and financial stability. Using practical examples and simple calculations, I show how small, informed choices can lead to significant tax savings over time. Plus, I share details about my free step-by-step tax strategies class, designed to make complex tax concepts accessible, actionable, and stress-free. Whether you're a self-employed creative, freelancer, or anyone looking to take control of your finances, this episode will give you the tools to understand taxes, maximize savings, and grow your wealth. Don't forget to leave a review—it helps more people find these insights and start feeling confident about their money. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:32 Introduction and Holiday Reflections 03:01 The Importance of Tax Literacy 11:34 Maximizing Tax-Advantaged Accounts for Savings If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Free online tax calculator Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Link to review this podcast on Apple Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I'm interviewed by Paddy Johnson of the Art Problems Podcast about my book Taxes for Humans, a tax guide for self-employed creatives. We explore why demystifying taxes is about more than numbers—it's about understanding the systems, values, and power behind them. I share why tax education matters, how it can empower creatives, and how the companion workbook helps put these ideas into practice. Plus, hear real stories from artists navigating taxes and the emotional weight money can carry in the creative world. Also mentioned in this episode: 03:19 Understanding the Book's Unique Approach 06:37 The Importance of Context in Tax Education 09:32 Breaking Down Tax Myths and Misconceptions 12:22 Empowering Artists Through Financial Literacy 15:37 The Role of Taxes in Society 18:33 The Workbook: A Practical Companion 21:17 Addressing Judgment and Shame in Tax Preparation 24:36 Real Stories of Artists Overcoming Tax Challenges 27:28 Resources for Artists If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I dive into the heart of my new book, Taxes for Humans, a guide I wrote to demystify taxes for creatives, freelancers, and self-employed people. I open up about my own history with money shame and why understanding taxes is so much bigger than numbers on a return. Taxes reflect our culture, our values, and the systems we move through every day. I share some of the behind-the-scenes, humor, and stories that shaped this book, and we talk about why real financial empowerment requires community, civic engagement, and a better approach to financial education. If you've ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or alone in figuring out your finances, this conversation will help you feel seen, and give you tools to navigate taxes with confidence and clarity. Also mentioned in this episode: 1:32 What Inspired the Book 5:34 A Money Moment You'll Never Forget 6:30 Why Creatives Feel So Much Shame 7:31 Taxes Are Culture 12:06 A Gentle First Step for Creatives 13:10 Can Taxes Create Real Change? 14:59 Lessons from Losing Your Studio 16:25 A Mistake That Taught You Something 17:41 Your #1 Message for Readers 18:43 What You Hope This Book Builds 20:06 What Every Creative Should Know About Their Worth If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I'm sharing my excitement about launching my book, Taxes for Humans. I wrote this book to make taxes simple and empowering, especially for freelancers, creatives, and historically underrepresented communities. We dive into why understanding taxes isn't just about saving money, it's about knowing how our taxes fund essential services, support our communities, and strengthen democracy. I also break down practical tax tips for self-employed individuals and creatives so you can grow your business, maximize benefits, and make a positive impact. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:25 Taxes for Humans 03:54 The Mission Behind Taxes for Humans 06:42 Understanding Taxes as a Societal Agreement 09:52 The Benefits of Taxes for Individuals and Businesses 12:46 Empowering Creatives and Entrepreneurs 15:32 Celebrating Community and Upcoming Events If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your SUPERBRIGHT Bonuses Check my in-person events. You're invited to my book launch party in Asheville.
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I share the story behind my new book, Taxes for Humans—a tax guide that blends my humanities and art background with clear, practical financial education. I break down why context matters in tax learning, how visuals and design make complex concepts easier to understand, and why emotional support and empathy are essential tools for navigating money. You'll hear how this book and its companion workbook help you feel grounded, empowered, and supported, not overwhelmed. My mission is simple: to build an empire of empathy through a tax guide that's completely different. If you've ever wished taxes felt more human, intuitive, and kind, this episode is your invitation in. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:21 Introduction to Taxes for Humans and Its Purpose 06:14 The Unique Approach of an Artist's Tax Guide 11:33 Visual Learning and Emotional Support in Tax Education 16:54 Workbook Overview and Launch Celebration If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your SUPERBRIGHT Bonuses
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I introduce my book, Taxes for Humans, a practical, judgment-free tax guide made specifically for creative professionals. I share my personal story and talk honestly about the challenges artists, freelancers, and mission-driven people face when trying to make sense of taxes. We dig into why taxes matter, how they support the communities we care about, and why building financial literacy is so important, especially for people who've been historically left out of traditional financial conversations. My goal in this episode is to help you feel confident claiming your identity as a business owner and to release some of the fear around money. Wealth isn't a moral test; it's a neutral tool you can use to support your values and make positive change. Also mentioned in this episode: 04:18 The Unique Perspective of Creative Professionals 08:04 Understanding the Importance of Taxes 11:44 The Societal Benefits of Taxes 13:40 The Changing Face of Business 14:39 Embracing Your Identity as a Business 15:33 Overcoming the Fear of Wealth 19:03 The Power of Money and Taxes If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of The Sunlight Tax Podcast, I'm excited to share something I've been working on for a long time, my new book, Taxes for Humans. This book is for freelancers, artists, and self-employed folks who want to finally understand their taxes and take control of their money. I talk about why tax education matters so much when you work for yourself, how complicated the self-employment system can be, and why I created a character called the Tax Dominatrix to make learning about taxes a lot more fun and less intimidating. I also explain why pre-ordering the book is such a big deal. It helps make sure Taxes for Humans is available to everyone, including people who can't afford traditional financial education programs. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:17 Overview of 'Taxes for Humans' Book 02:15 Understanding Self-Employment Taxes 04:12 Navigating Tax Complexity 05:34 The Tax Dominatrix Concept 07:21 Importance of Pre-Ordering the Book 08:45 Accessibility of Tax Education If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I talk with Dr. Matthew Fiedler about the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act—and what it could mean for your healthcare and taxes. We break down how the government shutdown affects healthcare access, why there are major Medicaid cuts, and what trade-offs come with the new tax cuts. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by low and moderate-income individuals in accessing healthcare, especially in light of new administrative requirements and potential loss of coverage. We also talk about what this means if you're self-employed or run a small business. With shifting healthcare policies and tax laws, good bookkeeping and clear financial records matter more than ever. Dr. Fiedler emphasizes the need for a more rational approach to healthcare financing and the importance of bookkeeping for self-employed individuals. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:46 Understanding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act 03:07 Impact of Government Shutdown on Healthcare 08:05 Overview of Healthcare Provisions in the Bill 09:30 Trade-offs in Tax Cuts and Healthcare Funding 12:20 Medicaid Cuts and Work Requirements 16:00 Navigating Medicaid for the Recently Unemployed 20:16 Cost-Shifting from Federal to State Medicaid Programs 25:29 Consequences for Low and Moderate Income Individuals 28:18 Changes in Marketplace Coverage Requirements 30:38 Implications for Self-Employed Individuals If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Dr. Matthew Fiedler Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I dive into one of the most essential tax deductions for self-employed individuals, focusing on business meals and travel expenses. If you're a freelancer, creative professional, or small business owner, this episode will help you understand what truly qualifies as a deductible expense, so you can stay compliant and keep more of what you earn. I break down IRS rules for business deductions, explain the documentation you need to support your write-offs, and share examples to make these concepts easy to apply. Plus, I talk about why supporting independent bookstores is so important to me and how it ties into the launch of my upcoming book, Taxes for Humans. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:14 Understanding Business Deductions 08:25 Exploring Business Meals and Travel Deductions 15:20 The Importance of Independent Bookstores If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I dig into the real impact of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services on spending habits and financial health. These "pay-later" plans may seem harmless, but they can quietly lead people, especially young consumers—into cycles of debt and financial stress. I break down how BNPL changes the way we think about money, what the long-term risks are, and why financial education is one of the most effective tools for protecting yourself. Research shows that learning even the basics of personal finance can save you tens of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. Also mentioned in this episode: 02:00 Introduction to Personal Finance and Consumer Culture 04:15 The Dangers of Buy Now, Pay Later Services 06:37 The Importance of Personal Finance Education 09:49 The Value of Financial Literacy 12:28 Building Wealth Through Smart Financial Habits If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: New York Times Article: They Got To Live A Life Of Luxury. Then Came The Fine Print 'Buy Now, Pay Later' has built a delirious new culture of consumption — and trapped users in a vortex of debt. CNBC Article: You can put a price tag on the value of a personal finance education: $100,000 Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of The Sunlight Tax Podcast, I'm unpacking the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and what its sweeping health care changes mean for real people and families. We'll dig into how this new legislation affects Medicaid coverage, Planned Parenthood funding, and low-income immigrants, plus what's changing for marketplace insurance subsidies and health savings accounts (HSAs). I'll also share key insights from an excellent healthinsurance.org article by Louise Norris, titled "One Big Beautiful Bill Act Brings Sweeping Changes to Health Coverage." With her permission, I'll be reading excerpts from that piece and you can find the full article linked in the show notes. It's a must-read if you want a deeper understanding of how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) could reshape American health care and insurance coverage in the years ahead. Also mentioned in this episode: 03:29 Health Care Provisions Overview 07:02 Medicaid Changes and Impacts 09:17 Planned Parenthood Funding 11:37 Subsidy Eligibility for Low-Income Immigrants 12:32 Impact of Subsidy Changes on Self-Employed 17:09 Health Savings Accounts and Marketplace Plans If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Credit: Key insights in this episode come from an excellent article by Louise Norris for healthinsurance.org, titled "One Big Beautiful Bill Act Brings Sweeping Changes to Health Coverage." Shared with permission. Links: Article by Louise Norris published in healthinsurance.org: One Big Beautiful Bill Act brings sweeping changes to health coverage by Louise Norris Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I'm diving into the One Big Beautiful Act, a major tax law that passed this summer. I found a great, nonpartisan article from the Tax Policy Center Urban Institute & Brookings Institution, and with the authors' permission. It's called "When Tax Laws Defy Public Opinion: What OBBBA Reveals." The piece lays out the short-term wins of this law, but also the long-term effects on things like healthcare and our social safety net. What really struck me is the gap between what people want and what lawmakers actually do, and how much wealth drives those decisions. For me, the big lesson is that we need to frame fiscal issues in ways that connect with the public, and ultimately, push for campaign finance reform to get legislation that reflects real public priorities. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:05 Introduction to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act 02:34 The Societal Impact of the Tax Bill 04:44 Public Opinion vs. Legislative Action 07:29 Disparities in Wealth and Policy Preferences 10:31 The Importance of Campaign Finance Reform If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Tax Policy Center Urban Institute & Brookings Institution Article: When Tax Laws Defy Public Opinion: What OBBBA Reveals Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I sit down with Joe Saul-Sehy, host of the Stacking Benjamins Show, for a deep dive into the world of personal finance and the emotional side of money management. Joe shares insights from his journey writing a personal finance book, and we explore topics like budgeting strategies, creating financial systems that work, and learning from our biggest money mistakes. We also discuss how mindset and emotions affect your money decisions, why community and accountability are essential for building wealth, and practical tips for artists and freelancers managing irregular income. Throughout the conversation, we highlight the importance of defining your financial goals, your core money values, and how having the right support network can help you actually achieve them. Also mentioned in this episode: 06:23 Tools for Financial Management 07:22 Learning from Financial Mistakes 13:07 Navigating Financial Challenges 24:46 The Power of Timelines in Financial Planning 26:30 Defining 'Best' in Financial Goals 33:46 The Emotional Side of Money 44:41 Creating a Sustainable Income Strategy If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: The Stacking Benjamins Show Joe Saul-Sehy's Book: Stacked Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I reveal the #1 habit that sets successful freelancers apart: consistent saving. Discover why saving is like a muscle you need to train, how small, steady contributions to retirement accounts can snowball into long-term financial security, and why waiting for the "perfect" moment to save holds you back. I share my personal journey, real success stories from my community, and practical tips to overcome the psychological barriers that keep many creatives and freelancers from building wealth. Whether you're just starting out or have been self-employed for years, you'll learn how to take imperfect but powerful action toward your financial goals and harness the power of compound interest to create a more secure future. If you've ever felt behind on saving, this episode will give you the motivation and strategy you need to start today. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:11 The Key Habit of Successful Freelancers 03:40 Overcoming Perfectionism in Saving 06:37 The Power of Consistent Savings 09:12 Building a Safety Net with Small Contributions 11:51 The Psychology of Financial Habits 14:54 Real Success Stories from the Community 18:26 The Importance of Habits Over Windfalls 21:10 Encouragement and Resources for Financial Security If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Check out my program, Money Bootcamp Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your free visual guide to tax deductions Check out my program, Money Bootcamp
This week on the Sunlight Tax podcast, I break down the biggest misconceptions about professional accounting services and explain why relying on tax preparation alone doesn't give small business owners or creative entrepreneurs the full value they need. I talk about the importance of proactive tax planning, bookkeeping, and year-round financial strategy, and why high-quality accounting services can feel expensive but are worth the investment. That's exactly why I created Money Bootcamp, a comprehensive course package and bookkeeping setup training for freelancers, sole proprietors, and solopreneurs. It helps get you set up right for taxes, tracking the right things, and growing a giant pile of money without wasting your time. Also mentioned in this episode: 01:00 Understanding the Value of Professional Accounting 02:19 Common Misconceptions About Accountants 03:43 What You Don't Get with Tax Preparation 06:55 The Costs of Quality Accounting Services 11:40 The Need for Accessible Financial Education 13:49 Money Bootcamp If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences. Links: Join my free class on 9/17: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook Get your free visual guide to tax deductions Check out my program, Money Bootcamp























