For Better and Worth

This episode dives into four game-changing net worth milestones that signal true financial progress. We're exploring the profound shifts in security, freedom, and opportunity that come with hitting these key targets. We'll demystify what it means to become a millionaire, feel the incredible relief of paying off your home, and finally, define the ultimate goal: your Financial Independence (FI) number. Sometimes it is helpful to know that you are advancing in your financial journey even when the big milestones seem far away. Listen in to learn more about what milestones to reach for and how to avoid the pitfalls at each level.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Ready to create unforgettable holiday memories without that nagging financial hangover? This episode isn't just about budgeting; it's your blueprint to truly win with your money this season! We'll kick things off by shining a light on average holiday spending and then guide you to create an intentional budget that feels empowering, not restrictive. Discover practical strategies to stay on track, like weekly money check-ins and effortless automated savings. Imagine ending this year feeling completely empowered and totally in control of your finances.  We believe you can do it! Listen in to hear about how we plan and begin to create your own plan for success this season.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung    

What if your next bonus, tax refund, or unexpected cash windfall could be the very thing that propels you toward your biggest financial dreams? Most people enjoy the feeling of being able to spend funds that have no name or aren't attached to bills. It's time to stop seeing "extra" money as a free-for-all and start seeing it as a powerful tool for building the life you want. In this episode, we're unlocking the potential of found money and giving you some motivation to turn windfalls into wins. Get ready to transform your approach and make every dollar work for your future. Your next bonus could change everything! Listen in to learn about how we maximized every dollar while getting out of debt.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Join us as we reflect on the three years since our youngest daughter left for college and how our "almost" empty nest has transformed our lives. This episode is an authentic look into how we've reevaluated our partnership, navigated our changing roles as parents of young adults, and found new ways to grow both as individuals and as a couple. We're sharing the real, unfiltered journey of this beautiful and challenging season. You don't want to miss it!       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Is the secret to long-term wealth a complicated, high-stakes strategy, or something far simpler? We often get drawn to the allure of "sexy" investing—the risky bets, the hot stock tips, the promise of explosive overnight returns. But what if the most powerful path to financial growth is actually the one that feels a little… boring? This episode pulls back the curtain on why consistency, patience, and a simple plan can be your greatest assets on your investment journey. We're diving deep into the power of straightforward, time-tested strategies like diversified index funds and automated contributions. You'll learn how these "boring" methods are designed to harness the market's power over the long haul, helping you build wealth without the sleepless nights. We'll also uncover the common traps of complex, "sexy" investing—from chasing elusive returns to taking on unnecessary risk. Get ready to feel empowered and inspired to build a strategy that truly works for you, one that brings you closer to your goals with confidence and clarity.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Is your bank account one giant pot of money for bills, savings, and spending? Or do you have so many accounts that you can't keep up with them all? It's time to stop the financial chaos and create a system that works for you, not against you. In this episode we share exactly how we manage our cash, where it goes, and why. Then we give some ideas for other ways to manage the flow of your money so you can finally get organized and reduce the day to day stress of managing it. Get ready to move from financial confusion to complete confidence and build a system that runs on autopilot, freeing you to focus on living your life.   Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung    

Ever wonder what a financial advisor really tells you? In this candid episode, we pull back the curtain on our recent meeting with an independent financial advisor. We're sharing the surprising truths we learned, the validation we received, and the exact steps we're taking to strengthen our financial future. This isn't about complex theories; it's a real-life look at how an outside perspective can illuminate your path and empower you to move forward with confidence. We discovered that while we are doing very well and are on track with our goals, there were crucial blind spots we had completely missed. If you've been curious about working with a professional or just want to see how a real financial plan gets refined, this episode is for you.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone for a cause you believe in, only to find it challenged your personal values? This episode dives into the real, raw, and sometimes awkward reality of fundraising. We're sharing our personal experience of selling raffle tickets for the Game on Cancer campaign at a Detroit Lions football game. It was a day filled with incredible energy, deep purpose, and also the uncomfortable feeling of being a potentially "pushy" salesperson. We had a good time, learned some lessons ourselves and raised a lot of money for a good cause. Tune in now to hear more!       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Are you sidestepping the biggest pitfalls on the path to financial freedom and a happy life? In this candid episode, we get real about the three most detrimental mistakes that can derail your financial dreams. We're diving deep into why holding onto debt is a trap society has normalized, and how to break free. We also tackle the critical importance of saving for the future, sharing a clear roadmap to build your retirement savings from your first match dollar to maxing out your accounts. Tune in now to hear the last mistake people make that turns out to be the biggest of them all. This episode is your wake-up call to build a life you truly love, together.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

In this episode, we're talking Millennials and Gen Z versus Gen X and Baby Boomers. The financial priorities of each generation are WILDLY different! We discuss why younger generations desire experiences, from international trips to concerts, and how social media fuels these desires. Plus, get ready for some real talk as we share personal stories from raising our own almost Millennial and Gen Z daughters, tackling the struggle of living in the now while still planning for tomorrow. This episode is your guide to bridging the generational gap, whether you're a parent, a young adult, or just curious about how to enjoy life today AND build a solid future. As our podcast title states, we believe people can have more than one thing at a time.  Tune in to hear our take on the changing spending climate.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

This week on the podcast we discuss something I hadn't intended to make public. The calendar page turned, and suddenly, the month of my birthday was here. Fifty. This milestone felt different. While Chris, met it with grace and genuine excitement, I wrestled with a mix of emotions.  Listen in to hear more about how I navigated this transition and the way Chris helped me right on the podcast in a way I didn't expect. You don't want to miss it!       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

If your kids are out of the out and off the payroll (paying their own expenses) you have entered an empty nest. Your house is quiet, your schedule is yours, and that freedom feels absolutely intoxicating. But here's the plot twist nobody warned you about: your newfound liberty might be costing you more than you expected. You've entered what financial experts quietly call the "freedom tax" phase of life. While your child-specific expenses have vanished, new spending patterns emerge that can catch even the most prepared parents off guard. Listen in to hear how we are navigating this season and some tips for continuing to manage your money well.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

There's something magical about walking through a newly renovated home for the first time. The dust has settled, the contractors have packed up their tools, and you're left with spaces that feel both familiar and completely transformed. After months of planning, budgeting, and living through construction chaos, we finally completed our bathroom renovations – and the journey taught us more about decision-making, relationships, and financial priorities than we ever expected. Tune in to hear all about the process, how we navigated as a team, and if it was all worth it in the end.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Marriage isn't a fairy tale—it's two imperfect people choosing to grow together through all of life's seasons. There will be times when you have to work at liking each other, moments when you need space, and seasons when you have to choose love over feelings. But here's what makes it worth it: you get to build something together that neither of you could create alone. You become witnesses to each other's growth, champions of each other's dreams, and partners in creating a legacy that outlasts your individual lives. Check out this week's episode to hear about the funny ways we've chosen to navigate this journey called love.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

When most people think of artificial intelligence, they picture futuristic robots or complex financial systems for major corporations. But AI has already woven itself into the very heart of our everyday money habits. And it is happening without us even realizing it. From simplifying budgeting to analyzing data, AI is changing how we approach financial decisions, making smart money management accessible, intuitive, and more effective than ever. We've even used it in our own financial life recently. Listen in to hear all of the ways to maximize your financial life using AI and how we did too!       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

We were young and eager to become homeowners. We qualified, found the perfect house, and scraped together just enough for the down payment. But once we settled in, started growing our family, and lived a little life, we quickly realized one thing: homeownership is expensive. There are hidden costs that often catch new homeowners off guard. The truth is, owning a home comes with expenses that many don't fully anticipate. Understanding these "hidden costs" is crucial. It's not just to keep your finances in order, but to ensure long-term peace of mind. Here we break down the unexpected expenses of homeownership and how to plan for them.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung    

Online shopping makes it easier than ever to fill our carts with things we don't really need. This year's Amazon Prime Day was actually 4 DAYS not one! So obviously you have more time to search, explore, and spend. Amazon has become the definition of impulse spending and impulsive spending can quickly derail your financial goals. But the good news? You can take control of your spending habits. Here's how to differentiate needs from wants, resist marketing traps, and stay focused on what really matters. Listen in to hear our take on how to overcome impulse spending.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, especially when you're in your 40s and 50s. This stage of life often comes with competing financial demands—raising kids, caring for aging parents, and maintaining a household. However, it's also a crucial time to focus on your financial future. By making strategic choices now, you can set yourself up for a comfortable retirement while alleviating many long-term worries. In this episode we explore some actionable steps to take control of your financial planning and make the most of your resources. We believe one smart move in particular will bring the most peace of mind during this season. Listen to find out what that one is...       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Summer is a season of sunshine, adventure, and making family memories. But, let's face it—between vacations, camps, meals out, and attractions, summer fun could come with a hefty price tag. Here's the good news: with a little creativity and thoughtful planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable summer packed with adventure, laughter, and connection without going over budget or derailing your financial goals. Although our kids are out of the house we understand the dilemma most families face trying to keep kids engaged. Listen to this week's episode to make the most of free or low-cost local activities, unlock the secrets of travel hacking, and make intentional choices to keep costs in check—all while staying true to what really matters.   Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. These challenges—whether they come as unexpected medical bills, job loss, or even the emotional toll of divorce—can shake our foundations and take a heavy toll on our finances. When your finances start to feel out of control, it can seem impossible to find your footing again. But the truth is, no matter how overwhelming things seem, there is a way forward. Listen in to hear about some simple ways to regain financial control and clarity after it has been lost.       Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung