Marriage Kids and Money: Personal Finance for Families

What if you didn’t have to wait until your 60s to experience the freedom of retirement? In this episode, we sit down with Jillian Johnsrud, author of Retire Often and host of the Retire Often Podcast, to explore the life-changing concept of “mini retirements.” Jillian shares how families can take extended breaks from work — to rest, travel, or explore new goals — without derailing their financial independence journey. We discuss the emotional and financial benefits of pausing your career, how to negotiate time off with your employer, and ways to plan mini retirements with kids. If you’re feeling burned out or stuck in the grind, this episode will inspire you to design more space, adventure, and joy into your family’s financial plan. RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. GUEST RESOURCES Retire Often (Book) – Learn how to design a life filled with mini retirements. RetireOften.com – Explore Jillian’s podcast, blog, and mini retirement tools. Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – What is a mini retirement and why it’s trending 02:20 – Why burnout is pushing families toward mini retirements 03:00 – Is the traditional 40-year career model dead? 04:30 – Why employers may welcome your mini retirement 06:00 – How to negotiate a one-month break from work 08:10 – How to address employer concerns with solutions 09:30 – Budgeting for a mini retirement 10:05 – Real-life example: living abroad for the cost of childcare 11:10 – Emotional recovery and resetting after burnout 12:45 – Planning affordable breaks earlier in your financial journey 14:00 – Jillian’s personal mini retirement story 15:00 – Making the most of parental leave and family bonding time 16:30 – Negotiating flexible work or part-time transitions 18:00 – Exit negotiations: how to leave your job on your terms 20:20 – Creating part-time roles and consulting opportunities 22:20 – What is a family gap year and how to plan one 23:40 – Practicing travel and flexibility with kids 25:30 – The FI dilemma: does taking time off derail your goals? 27:00 – Why mini retirements can accelerate your financial growth 28:50 – Mini retirements as wealth-building opportunities 30:00 – About Jillian’s book Retire Often 31:00 – Final thoughts and where to learn more HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building a six-figure business as a solopreneur doesn’t happen overnight -- but with the right mindset and systems, it’s absolutely possible. In this episode, we talk with Jannese Torres, a nationally acclaimed Latina money expert, business coach, and host of the Yo Quiero Dinero podcast. Jannese shares how she turned her food blog, Delish D’Lites, into a $10,000-per-month business that allowed her to leave her corporate engineering career and design a life on her own terms. She also breaks down how new creators can find their niche, diversify income through ads and affiliates, and build long-term passive income online. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion into a profitable business, this conversation will inspire you to take that first step. To learn more, check out her Jumpstart Your Blog Bootcamp. RESOURCES & NOTESSolopreneur tools, guest links, and favorite resources to help you build your solo business GUEST LINKS Yo Quiero Dinero Podcast – Learn from Jannese’s money and business insights. Delish D’Lites – Discover her viral Puerto Rican food blog. Jumpstart Your Blog Bootcamp – Jannese’s signature course for aspiring bloggers. SOLOPRENEUR TOOLS WE LOVE Monarch Money – The best app to manage your business and personal budget in one place. Gusto – Payroll and benefits made easy for solopreneurs hiring contractors or employees. Riverside – Record high-quality remote podcasts and videos. Belay – Virtual assistants and bookkeeping support for entrepreneurs. Live Oak Bank – High-yield business savings accounts. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES Visit our full list of partners and deals: Sponsors & Resources Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Stay curious: the mindset that fuels success 00:24 – Jannese Torres on finding freedom through solopreneurship 01:00 – From corporate engineer to creative entrepreneur 02:15 – How her food blog began as a hobby 03:30 – The turning point: making her first $10,000 05:00 – Balancing a full-time job while building her business 07:00 – Quitting her corporate career with confidence 09:40 – Financial prep before leaving a steady paycheck 11:40 – The biggest differences between solopreneurship and corporate life 13:00 – How food bloggers make money (ads, affiliates, sponsors) 15:40 – Diversifying income as a blogger 17:00 – Passive income that continues to pay 18:30 – Building flexibility and time freedom as a parent 20:30 – How to stand out in today’s AI-driven content world 23:40 – The Solopreneur High Five rapid-fire segment 25:30 – Favorite solopreneur tools and apps 27:00 – Lessons from her biggest mistakes 28:45 – Redefining retirement as “work optional” 30:15 – How to start your own food or lifestyle blog today 31:10 – Where to find Jannese and her online resources HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New parents often wonder where to start when it comes to investing for their child’s future. In this episode, we walk through a 5-step plan to invest for your newborn -- from protecting your family and setting up a 529 plan to teaching your kids how to build wealth on their own. We also feature Naseema McElroy, founder of Financially Intentional, who paid off $1 million of debt and built a $1 million net worth by age 44. She shares how she’s teaching her kids about ownership, investing early, and building generational wealth. Finally, we wrap up with a fun money quiz with Calvin, testing his knowledge about investing, scholarships, and how to grow wealth over time. RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Generational wealth and the true legacy worth investing in 00:21 – Welcome and episode overview 00:49 – Net Worth Win: Naseema McElroy of Financially Intentional 01:15 – Listener question: how to invest for a newborn 01:40 – Step 1: Secure your own finances first 02:45 – Step 2: Protect your family with life insurance, a will, and credit freezes 04:30 – Step 3: Open a 529 college savings plan 06:30 – Step 4: Consider a UTMA or UGMA custodial account 08:00 – Step 5: Add a custodial Roth IRA once your child has earned income 09:20 – Teaching kids the power of compounding 10:00 – Recap: five steps for investing for newborns 11:10 – Naseema McElroy on paying off $1M of debt 13:20 – Investing for herself and her children 15:20 – Building wealth through retirement accounts and home equity 18:00 – Teaching her kids to invest and own stocks 23:00 – Employing kids in your business for Roth IRA contributions 24:00 – Why starting early matters for generational wealth 25:20 – Naseema’s advice: start now, don’t wait 26:57 – Money Quiz with Calvin Hill HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Setting up your 401 (k) can feel overwhelming, especially when you are faced with a long list of investment options. To make it easier, we welcome Zina Kumok, financial advisor and money expert, to explain how to choose wisely. Zina covers the importance of the employer match, diversification, and automation so your retirement savings can grow without stress. In the second half, we sit down with Jessica and Corey Fick of The Fioneers, who reached Coast FIRE in their early 30s. They share how they built a million-dollar portfolio, left corporate jobs that no longer fit their lives, and created a business that supports the lifestyle they truly want. If you are just starting out with your 401k or aiming for Coast FIRE, this episode will give you both the tactical steps and the long-term inspiration to succeed. RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Why your 401k match is part of your compensation 00:28 – Welcome and overview of today’s episode 01:00 – Introduction to Zina Kumok 02:15 – What a 401k is and why it matters 03:30 – Understanding employer matches 05:00 – Choosing investments in your 401k 06:30 – Risk tolerance and diversification explained 08:30 – Automating your 401k contributions 09:20 – Alternatives to a 401k (IRA, HSA, brokerage) 13:00 – The importance of capturing your employer match 14:30 – Where to connect with Zina Kumok 15:17 – Coast FIRE couple spotlight: Jessica and Corey Fick 16:20 – The Coast FIRE Five 18:00 – Their journey from early investing to Coast FIRE 22:30 – How burnout pushed them to redesign their lives 25:00 – Reaching Coast FIRE and slowing contributions 27:00 – What their portfolio looks like today 29:30 – Household income range over 15 years 31:30 – Growing investments without new contributions 33:30 – How they control expenses in New England 35:20 – Advice for others pursuing Coast FIRE 37:10 – Why Coast FIRE is more approachable than full FIRE 40:00 – Where to learn more from The Fioneers HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when Google’s algorithm changes upend your online business? Corritta Lewis, founder of It’s a Family Thing, joins me to share how her family travel blog dropped from $7,000/month to $1,000/month due to recent shifts in Google AI—and how she pivoted into consulting to stay financially secure. We explore the rise and fall of her blogging income, how she balances digital nomad life with raising a child, and why she’s now aiming for early retirement at age 45. If you’ve considered travel blogging or you’ve been hit by the same algorithm changes, this conversation is packed with insight on how to adapt, pivot, and thrive as a solopreneur. ⏱️ Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Intro: Travel blogging hit hard by AI 00:35 – Meet Corritta Lewis: Digital nomad + travel blogger 02:00 – Laid off during the pandemic… then launched the blog 03:30 – From 13¢ to $7K/month: How Corritta scaled her income 05:00 – Juggling full-time work and travel content creation 06:30 – Consulting work and digital nomad flexibility 07:30 – Financial stability, travel insurance, and raising a kid on the road 08:45 – How affiliate links + ads powered her blog income 10:00 – The impact of Google AI: $7K/month drops to $1K/month 11:20 – Why she’s not sure blogging is worth it in 2025 12:30 – Corritta’s pivot into HR tech consulting 13:30 – “I didn’t know I liked writing…” 14:15 – Tools she uses to run her solopreneur life 15:00 – Mistakes: Delaying, lowballing, and not knowing her worth 16:30 – FIRE plans: 80% of the way there at age 36 17:30 – Real estate vs. stock market for financial freedom 18:40 – Raising a world-schooled son and dealing with “reverse culture shock” 20:00 – The future: Antarctica, early retirement, and living on their terms 21:30 – Where to connect with Corritta 🔗 Resources & Notes 👤 Guest Links – Corritta Lewis 🌍 It’s a Family Thing Blog – Follow Corritta’s travel adventures and family travel tips 📸 @itzafamilything on Instagram – See where Corritta and her family are heading next 🎥 It’s a Family Thing on YouTube – Travel content and global family living 🚀 Solopreneur Resources 🎯 Own Your Time – Pre-order my book and escape the corporate grind 📅 Solopreneur Coaching – 1-on-1 support for growing your business 📺 Solopreneur Life on YouTube – Subscribe for weekly interviews and tips 💼 Sponsors, Deals & Resources – See all offers that support this show 💼 Recommended Tools for Solopreneurs 📊 Monarch Money – Best budget app for solopreneurs and families 🏦 Live Oak Bank – Business savings accounts with strong APY 👥 Belay – Virtual assistants and staffing for growing solo businesses 📋 Gusto – Solo payroll and benefits made simple 🎙 Riverside – Record high-quality podcasts and interviews remotely 💼 More Sponsor Offers – Explore all partner discounts and recommendations 💰 How We Make Money + Disclaimer This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers, where we earn a commission if you click and make a purchase. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support our mission to empower solopreneurs with freedom and financial confidence. Thank you for supporting this small business! 👉 Full list of sponsors and deals Disclaimer: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Be sure to seek out a professional who knows your situation best before making any financial decisions. 🎧 Credits Editor: Johnny SohlPodcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retirement planning just got a lot more flexible. In this episode, Andy Hill breaks down the new 5% rule, based on his interview with Bill Bengen, the creator of the original 4% rule. Learn how this updated strategy can help you withdraw more from your portfolio, reach Coast FIRE faster, and enjoy life while you are still healthy. We also hear the inspiring net worth journey of John and David Auten-Schneider, hosts of the Queer Money Podcast, who grew their wealth from $51,000 of credit card debt to $1.6 million in their early 50s. Finally, Andy and his son Calvin dive into “The Good Word,” where they celebrate positive financial news and explore how investing can grow wealth over time. RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Bill Bengen on enjoying life while spending safely 00:18 – Welcome and today’s 3 segments 01:00 – The 4% rule explained 02:20 – How Bill Bengen created the 4% rule 04:10 – Why diversification allows for a higher withdrawal rate 05:30 – Introducing the 5% rule 06:05 – Retirement math examples ($1M and $2M portfolios) 06:45 – FIRE and Coast FIRE implications (20x vs. 25x expenses) 07:50 – Conservative vs. aggressive expert takes (Orman, Ramsey, Vanguard) 09:00 – Why flexibility matters in retirement withdrawals 10:00 – Andy’s personal perspective on the 5% rule 10:15 – Net Worth Win: John and David Auten-Schneider (Queer Money Podcast) 13:00 – Their early struggles with $51,000 of credit card debt 15:30 – From debt payoff to Coast FIRE 18:00 – Breaking down their $1.6M net worth 21:00 – Navigating income dips and financial resilience 26:00 – Considering Roth conversions and tapping retirement accounts 32:00 – Future plans: Moving to Mexico and geo-liberation 37:30 – Their advice for others starting the wealth-building journey 39:00 – The power of house hacking and frugal car choices 40:20 – Where to find John and David online 40:23 – The Good Word with Calvin Hill 42:49 – Stock market hits all-time high and Calvin’s investing progress HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Working hard doesn’t always mean moving up the wealth ladder. Many families feel stuck — despite long hours and financial discipline — because their strategy isn’t aligned with their stage of wealth. To help us rethink our approach, Andy Hill sits down with Nick Maggiulli, COO of Ritholtz Wealth Management and bestselling author of The Wealth Ladder: Proven Strategies for Every Step of Your Financial Life (get it here). Nick explains his “wealth levels” framework, the six stages of net worth, and how your financial strategy should evolve at each step. Whether you’re just starting out or on your way to millionaire status, this conversation will help you identify pitfalls, focus on the right levers, and take practical steps to keep climbing. RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. The Wealth Ladder (Book) – Learn Nick Maggiulli’s strategies for every wealth level. Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Why working harder isn’t always the answer 00:30 – Introduction to Nick Maggiulli & The Wealth Ladder 02:00 – Why effort alone doesn’t guarantee wealth 04:30 – Defining the “Wealth Ladder” framework 06:30 – The six levels of wealth in America 09:00 – Why income is the biggest driver of wealth 10:30 – Spending freedom at different wealth levels 13:00 – When investing starts to accelerate wealth building 15:00 – Level 3 realities: income vs. investments 18:00 – Homeownership as an asset vs. consumption good 20:30 – Pitfalls of ego-driven spending in Level 3 24:00 – What separates Level 3 from Level 4 wealth builders 26:00 – Nick’s personal journey to Level 4 28:00 – Mistakes and lessons learned along the way 30:20 – Solopreneurship and scaling outside your 9-to-5 32:00 – Advice for frustrated wealth builders 33:40 – Where to get The Wealth Ladder HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial intelligence is changing everything — from the way we work, to how we run businesses, to how we raise our kids. To help us prepare for this AI-driven future, Andy Hill sits down with Matt Britton, leading AI and consumer trend expert and author of Generation AI: Why Generation Alpha and AI Will Change Everything. In this conversation, Matt explains what AI really means for employees, solopreneurs, and parents. He shares how workers can future-proof their careers, why solopreneurs have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build businesses faster than ever, and how parents can prepare their children for a world where AI is everywhere. If you’re feeling both excited and overwhelmed by AI, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and actionable steps for your family’s future. Grab Matt’s book Generation AI here → https://amzn.to/42jAXxR RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. Generation AI (Book) – Learn more in Matt Britton’s latest book. Podcast Chapters 00:00 – The evolution of AI and jobs it replaces 01:00 – Introduction to Matt Britton & his new book Generation AI 02:00 – What AI really means today 04:00 – Is AI a fad or here to stay? 06:30 – How AI impacts employees: who should be concerned 08:30 – Future-proofing your career with AI 10:30 – AI as a personal life tool 12:00 – Opportunities for solopreneurs with AI 14:00 – Matt Britton’s journey with AI adoption 15:45 – Why now is the best time to dive in 16:00 – Preparing kids (Gen Alpha) for an AI future 18:20 – AI in schools: private vs. public adoption 20:30 – Is college still worth it in the age of AI? 22:00 – Jobs that may not exist by 2030 24:00 – Human skills that remain valuable 26:00 – One step to start embracing AI today 27:45 – About Generation AI and where to find it 28:17 – Closing thoughts and listener support HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Getting your spouse on board with financial independence isn’t always easy ... especially when FIRE feels like a radical concept. In this episode, Andy Hill shares practical tips for inviting your partner into the journey without causing tension, from asking fun life questions to defining your own version of FIRE together. We also highlight Sunny and Sunmarie Burns from the FamVestor YouTube channel, who grew their net worth to over $3 million in their 30s while raising five kids. They reveal how frugal living, real estate investing, and shared family goals helped them achieve financial freedom. Finally, Andy brings his son Calvin on for a fun money quiz, testing his knowledge of financial independence and teaching lessons the whole family can enjoy. Podcast Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: Why relationships come first on the FIRE journey 01:00 – Listener question: How do I get my spouse on board with financial independence? 02:15 – Common mistakes Andy made early in his marriage 04:20 – Step 1: Ask your spouse fun life questions 06:50 – Step 2: Share your passions and desires too 09:30 – Step 3: Define FIRE together on your own terms 09:32 – Net Worth Win: Sunny & Sun Marie Burns (FamVestor) 13:00 – Saving $75k by living with family 15:00 – Their first house hack and rental property 20:45 – Building wealth through 12 rental units 25:40 – Breaking down their $3M+ net worth 27:40 – Generational wealth for their kids 31:40 – Life after leaving a corporate career 34:39 – Key advice for aspiring families 36:53 – Where to find Sunny & Sun Marie online 38:01 – Money Quiz with Calvin Hill 45:56 – Closing quote from Maya Angelou RESOURCES⁠Sponsors, Deals, and Partners that Support the Show Sponsors, Deals & Partners – See all current offers in one place. MKM RESOURCES Own Your Time – Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching – Get 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey. Coast FIRE Calculator – Find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator – See how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube – Subscribe for free to watch videos of episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS & AFFILIATES) Monarch Money – Best budget app for families & couples. Empower – Free portfolio tracker. Crew – HYSA banking built for families (Get an extra 0.5% APY with my partner link). Ethos – Affordable term life insurance. Trust & Will – Convenient estate planning made easy. HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What would it mean to live a regret-free life, starting today? In this “Best of MKM” episode from 2022, I sit down with Jordan Grumet, a hospice doctor and author of Taking Stock, to explore how confronting death can help us live more intentionally. Jordan shares powerful stories from his hospice work, the deep regrets he’s heard at the end of life, and how we can avoid them by embracing purpose, identity, and connection now. We discuss the trap of chasing net worth and job titles, the tension between FIRE and YOLO, and practical frameworks to align your money with what truly matters. Whether you’re striving toward financial independence or simply seeking more meaning in your day-to-day, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and act with intention. If you’ve ever felt stuck on autopilot, this conversation with Jordan Grumet is a wake-up call to reassess your priorities and build a life with fewer regrets. Resources ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sponsors, Deals and Partners⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Own Your Time⁠⁠⁠⁠: Pre-order my first book today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cr⁠ew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠- Convenient Estate Planning CHAPTERS 00:00 – Regret and mortality: a powerful lens 01:30 – Intro to Jordan Grumet and the regret free life 03:00 – Stories from hospice: what people really regret 06:00 – Purpose, people, and climbing your “Everest” 08:00 – The hedonic treadmill and false financial goals 10:30 – FIRE vs. YOLO: where’s the balance? 12:30 – How to decide when to spend vs. save 14:30 – Fear-based planning: what scares you most? 17:00 – Finding the middle ground: Slow FI, Coast FI, Barista FI 20:00 – Subtraction: designing your life through removal 23:00 – Building purpose in early careers 26:00 – Modeling fulfillment for your kids 28:00 – Two life-changing exercises to reduce regret 31:00 – Where to find Taking Stock and connect with Jordan HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to raise money-smart kids? In this Best of MKM episode from 2020, Andy Hill sits down with Liz Frazier, Certified Financial Planner and author of Beyond Piggy Banks and Lemonade Stands. Liz shares practical strategies parents can use to teach their young kids the value of money—starting as early as age four. From understanding needs vs. wants to saving, giving, and making smart spending decisions, Liz outlines fun and effective ways to build lifelong financial habits in children. She also tackles common questions around allowances, chores, and how parents can be positive money role models, even if they don’t feel financially perfect themselves. If you’re ready to help your kids build confidence, generosity, and gratitude with money, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration for families. Resources ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sponsors, Deals and Partners⁠⁠⁠⁠ MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Own Your Time⁠⁠⁠: Pre-order my first book today! ⁠⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cr⁠ew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠- Convenient Estate Planning CHAPTERS 00:00 – Teaching kids the basics of money 02:00 – Why childhood shapes money habits 06:45 – When to start money lessons 08:30 – Needs vs. wants activity 09:45 – Teaching priorities and decision-making 10:45 – Allowance vs. chores debate 12:30 – Save, spend, share jars 13:45 – Making saving fun for kids 15:30 – Encouraging generosity and giving 18:15 – Teaching gratitude with money 20:00 – Helping kids appreciate wealth 21:00 – Parents teaching money (even if not perfect) 22:15 – Simple ways to start today 23:00 – Where to find Liz Frazier’s book HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you feel like a rockstar at work but a failure at home, you’re not alone—and there is a better way forward. In this “Best of MKM” episode from 2020, I talk with entrepreneur and author Mark Timm about the powerful concept of work-life integration. After years of chasing “balance” and falling short, Mark had a breakthrough moment: instead of separating work and family, what if he integrated the two? Mark shares how he legally incorporated his family, started holding intentional family meetings, and brought the same leadership skills he used in business into his home life. The result? A stronger marriage, deeper connections with his six kids, and a thriving family culture with a mission of its own. If you’re struggling to juggle your career and your personal life, this episode with Mark Timm will inspire you to lead at home like you do at work—and build something extraordinary with the people who matter most. Resources ⁠⁠⁠Sponsors, Deals and Partners⁠⁠⁠ MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Own Your Time⁠⁠: Pre-order my first book today! ⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠⁠⁠Cr⁠ew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠- Convenient Estate Planning CHAPTERS 00:00 – The courage to be vulnerable01:30 – Introduction to Mark Timm and the concept of work life integration03:00 – Why work-life balance is a myth05:00 – Mark’s “driveway moment” of realization07:00 – Incorporating his family as a business09:00 – How family meetings transformed communication12:00 – Creating a family mission: Love God, Live Right, Lead All Out14:30 – From discipline to leadership: Family court16:00 – Traveling with his kids to create deeper bonds19:00 – Involving the family in business and decision-making21:00 – How work life integration strengthened his marriage23:00 – The power of showing, not just telling25:00 – Why vulnerability is leadership27:00 – Creating unity in a blended family29:00 – First steps for families ready to integrate32:00 – How to connect with Mark Timm and get the book HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disagreements around money in marriage can trigger anxiety, conflict, and even long-term damage if left unspoken. So how can couples move from financial tension to emotional connection? In this “Best of MKM” episode from 2019, psychiatrist Dr. Laura Dabney shares her insights on why money arguments go deeper than dollars—and how to address the feelings behind the finances. Dr. Dabney explains why our childhood experiences shape our money mindset, how to express emotions without blame, and what to do when your spouse isn’t on the same page. Whether it’s a surprise boat purchase or hidden debt, she offers tools to help couples move beyond the surface and truly communicate. This conversation is full of “a-ha” moments and practical advice for parents and partners trying to build trust and teamwork. If disagreements around money in marriage are stressing you out, this episode with Dr. Laura Dabney is a must-listen. Resources ⁠⁠Sponsors, Deals and Partners⁠⁠ MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Own Your Time⁠: Pre-order my first book today! ⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠⁠Cr⁠ew⁠⁠⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠⁠⁠ ⁠- Convenient Estate Planning CHAPTERS 00:00 – How emotions—not dollars—spark financial fights 01:40 – Introduction to Dr. Laura Dabney 03:00 – Childhood roots of money conflict 04:30 – Learning to identify and express feelings 06:30 – How to talk about big purchases 09:00 – Communication strategy: “I feel X when you do Y” 11:30 – Making time for emotional check-ins as parents 13:45 – How tech affects emotional connection 15:30 – Red flags to watch in serious relationships 17:30 – Boundaries and when to seek therapy 20:00 – Counseling alone when your spouse won’t come 22:30 – Why money classes may miss the root issue 24:00 – Dr. Dabney’s book recommendations and resources HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel like your phone gets more of your attention than your family? You’re not alone. In this Best of MKM episode, we explore how to reclaim our focus, strengthen our relationships, and find balance in a world full of digital distractions. Author and speaker Mark Ostach joins me to talk about digital wellness—what it means, why it matters, and how small shifts can make a huge difference in our marriages, parenting, and personal health. From setting boundaries with email to modeling good tech habits for our kids, Mark shares practical strategies to help us become more present at home and less consumed by screens. This conversation originally aired in 2022, but it’s just as powerful today. As part of our Best of MKM series, I’m excited to bring back this timeless chat with Mark, the author of Courage to Connect. Resources ⁠Sponsors, Deals and Partners⁠ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – What Digital Wellness Really Means 04:00 – The “Holy Trinity” of Checking & Digital Distraction 06:30 – Early Struggles That Sparked Mark’s Mission 07:50 – Impact of Screen Time on Marriage & Family Life 09:40 – Modeling Healthy Tech Habits for Kids 11:50 – Coping with Distraction & Digital Stress 13:30 – Small Steps Toward Digital Wellness 17:00 – Morning Routines & Phone Boundaries 18:00 – Healthy Ways to Use Social Media 20:00 – Managing Email & Avoiding Overwhelm 23:50 – When Should Kids Get Their First Devices? 25:00 – Parents as “Paparazzi” & Memory vs. Instagram 28:30 – Predictions for the Future of Digital Wellness 32:30 – One Simple Step You Can Take Today 34:00 – Where to Find Courage to Connect MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠⁠Own Your Time: Pre-order my first book today! MKM Coaching⁠⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠Cr⁠ew⁠⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠⁠⁠ - Convenient Estate Planning HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Andy Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Andy Hill sits down with LendingTree’s Matt Schulz to break down the real price tag of parenting in 2024 (spoiler: nearly $300K!). They cover rising childcare costs, smart savings strategies, and how your budget can survive the baby years. Then, financial planner Madison Sharick shares how she and her husband hit Coast FIRE in their 30s — while raising two young kids! 💡 Whether you're a future parent or already knee-deep in diapers, this episode is packed with practical money moves to help your family thrive. EPISODE RESOURCES Sponsors, Deals and Partners Ask Questions, Save Money, Make More (Matt's book): https://amzn.to/4mg7mgb (affiliate) Matt Schulz: https://www.mattschulz.com/ Nectarine (Advice Only Financial Planners): ⁠⁠https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/nectarine⁠ (affiliate) Madi Minds Money: ⁠https://madimanagesmoney.com/ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Is the cost of raising a child worth it? 00:33 – Show introduction and episode preview 01:09 – Meet Matt Schulz, LendingTree financial expert 02:10 – How much does it cost to raise a child? 03:20 – Why these rising costs impact family planning 04:13 – How fast is the cost increasing? 05:30 – Most and least expensive states to raise a child 07:46 – Major cost drivers: daycare and housing 09:00 – Average percentage of income spent on child expenses 10:30 – Where to begin: budgeting basics for new parents 12:00 – Smart moves to save on childcare 13:50 – Debt management tips to free up cash 16:00 – Should high costs stop you from having kids? 18:00 – Coast FIRE segment 20:11 – Meet Madison: Coast FIRE at 35 with kids 21:33 – Retirement projections and 4% rule 22:45 – The motivation behind early investing 24:00 – How Madison and Jake built wealth 26:50 – Madison’s career path and income 28:15 – Combining income as a couple 29:45 – Career vs. parenting: striking a balance 33:15 – How Madison financially prepared to quit her job 35:09 – Pausing contributions and strategic Roth conversion 36:15 – Generational wealth planning 37:30 – College planning with 529s 38:45 – Financial literacy goals for her daughters 39:20 – Easy step to start Coast FIRE journey 40:20 – Where to find Madison and her financial advice 41:01 – Closing thoughts and inspirational quote MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠Cr⁠ew⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠⁠ - Convenient Estate Planning HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Nev Maraj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to quit your job and earn a full-time income on YouTube? 💻 Denis Trufin went from working in retail to building a YouTube business that now generates over $10,000/month — most of it passively. In this episode, Denis shares how he grew multiple YouTube channels, why evergreen content is his secret weapon, and what solopreneurship really looks like behind the scenes. ✅ You’ll Learn: How Denis got started (and what failed) When he realized YouTube could replace his day job 4 ways YouTubers actually make money What a typical week looks like as a solo creator His top advice for beginners (and what mistakes to avoid) Whether you're dreaming of leaving your 9–5 or growing your side hustle, Denis's journey is packed with tips, transparency, and inspiration. Resources: ⁠⁠⁠Sponsors + Partners + Deals⁠⁠⁠ TruFinancials (Denis's YouTube Channel): ⁠https://www.youtube.com/TruFinancials YouTube Passive Income Podcast (Denis's Podcast): https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/youtube-passive-income-by-ranking/id1735315505 Chapters 00:00 – Why Most People Quit Too Early 00:22 – Introduction to Denis Trufin and His YouTube Journey 01:00 – How a Lack of Time Control Sparked His Entrepreneurial Drive 01:56 – Early Attempts and Failures on YouTube 03:00 – Personal Finance Channel Launch and Initial Struggles 03:36 – Earning Ad Revenue After 7–8 Months 04:15 – Working in Retail Before YouTube 05:08 – The Moment Denis Decided to Quit His Job 07:06 – How His Immigrant Parents Inspired Him 07:40 – What Solopreneurship Means to Denis 08:41 – Using Content to Help Others With Finances 09:58 – Four Ways to Make Money on YouTube 11:31 – What Makes Up Denis’s YouTube Income 12:16 – Making $10K/Month Through Mostly Passive Income 14:03 – Why Evergreen Content Wins Over Trendy Topics 15:48 – Is $10K Enough for a Comfortable Life? 17:00 – Typical Work Week as a Full-Time YouTuber 18:50 – How Long It Takes to Succeed on YouTube 21:00 – Do You Need Passion to Start a Channel? 21:30 – The Power of Evergreen and Staying Niche 22:40 – Solopreneur High Five: Favorite Tools 23:55 – Outsourcing to Stay Focused 25:11 – Biggest Mistake: Not Niching Down Sooner 27:10 – Life Outside of YouTube and Supporting a Nonprofit 28:34 – What Retirement Means to a Solopreneur 29:44 – Final Advice: Stick With It 30:25 – Where to Find Denis Trufin Online MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠⁠Crew⁠⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠ ⁠⁠- Convenient Estate Planning HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Nev Maraj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With so much market noise and doom-filled headlines, you might be wondering — is now actually a good time to invest? In today’s episode, we break down six compelling reasons why today could be the best day to start your investing journey. 📈 Also in this episode: A Net Worth Win from Vinny in New Zealand, who grew his family’s net worth to over $1 million NZD by age 55 "Good Word" segment with my son Calvin about the health benefits of running and why it can add 12 years to your life Whether you're just getting started with investing or need inspiration to stay on track, this episode will help you build wealth and strengthen your family tree! Resources: ⁠Sponsors + Partners + Deals⁠ Own Your Time (Pre-order on Amazon): https://amzn.to/3ICXFKq Own Your Time (Pre-order on Barnes & Noble): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/own-your-time-andy-hill/1147563897 PensionBee (sponsor): https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/pensionbee Project Frugal (Vinnie Anglesey's YouTube Channel): https://www.youtube.com/ProjectFrugal Good Word Article (Runner's World): https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/news/a45685364/running-help-you-live-longer/ Podcast Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – Why Now Is a Good Time to Invest 02:29 – Reason #1: Waiting Could Cost You More 04:50 – Real Example: VFIAX Price Drops and Recovery 06:10 – Reason #2: No One Can Predict the Market 07:00 – Reason #3: The Market Rises in the Long Run 07:50 – Reason #4: Investing Favors Those Who Start Early 09:00 – Reason #5: You Might Already Be Investing 11:00 – IRAs, Rollovers, and Consolidation 11:51 – Reason #6: Dollar Cost Averaging Works 13:00 – When NOT to Invest: No Emergency Fund or High Interest Debt 15:00 – Net Worth Win: Vinny & Denise from New Zealand 17:00 – From Debt to Financial Transformation 20:00 – Partnering on the Budget as a Couple 22:30 – Net Worth Breakdown and Lean FIRE Goals 25:46 – How to Reach Lean FIRE in Four Years 27:38 – Monthly Net Worth Tracking: Vinny’s #1 Tip 28:30 – Project Frugal YouTube Channel 29:58 – The Good Word with Calvin Hill 30:57 – Good News: Running Can Add 12 Years to Your Life 35:50 – Time Ownership and Andy’s New Book HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Nev Maraj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Hill sits down with Jessica Moorhouse—accredited financial counselor, award-winning content creator, and author of Everything But Money—to explore the impact of money trauma and how our financial behaviors are often shaped by past experiences. Jessica shares how both big T and little T traumas influence our financial decisions, the role of generational trauma in our money mindset, and how unhealed emotional wounds can lead to cycles of overspending, fear, and financial stress. She also opens up about her own personal journey of self-discovery, the power of therapy in reshaping her financial mindset, and actionable steps you can take to break free from unhealthy money patterns. If you’ve ever felt anxiety, guilt, or shame around money, this conversation will help you unpack the past and move forward with financial confidence. Listen now to start healing your money story! RESOURCES: Sponsors + Partners + Deals Everything but Money (book): https://amzn.to/3Da02Cg (affiliate) CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Introduction to the Episode 01:00 – What is Money Trauma? 02:26 – The Difference Between Big T and Little T Trauma 04:52 – How Trauma Affects Our Financial Decisions 07:00 – Childhood Money Trauma and How It Shapes Us 09:35 – Generational Trauma and Its Lasting Impact 12:07 – Can Money Trauma Be Used as Motivation? 16:17 – The Power of Therapy: EMDR & Internal Family Systems (IFS) 18:26 – Jessica’s Personal Experience with Childhood Trauma 24:32 – Mindfulness, Meditation, and Daily Practices for Healing 27:05 – Overcoming Negative Self-Talk and Imposter Syndrome 29:20 – One Small Step to Start Healing Money Trauma 30:20 – How Parents Can Avoid Passing Money Trauma to Their Kids MKM RESOURCES: MKM Coaching: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. Make My Kid a Millionaire Course: Want to build generational wealth and happiness for your kid? Learn more about my course! Coast FIRE Calculator: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. Mortgage Payoff Calculator: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. YouTube: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): Monarch Money - Best Budget App for Families & Couples Empower - Free Portfolio Tracker Crew - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link Ethos - Affordable Term Life Insurance Trust & Will - Convenient Estate Planning HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Liz Theresa Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Nev Maraj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Grant Sabatier, the author of Inner Entrepreneur, to explore how entrepreneurship can be a powerful path to financial independence, time freedom, and personal joy. Grant shares his incredible journey from feeling stuck in corporate life to building multiple businesses, reaching financial independence by 30, and crafting a life centered around what he loves—including owning a bookstore and spending meaningful time with his family. If you’re curious about starting a business, finding peace beyond just chasing money, or learning how to build an “empire” that truly fits your life, this is a must-listen conversation. Resources: ⁠⁠Sponsors + Partners + Deals⁠⁠ Inner Entrepreneur (book): https://amzn.to/4l7v6D9 (affiliate) Chapters 00:00 – Why People Get Stuck in Unfulfilling Careers 00:42 – Welcome to the Show & Introduction of Grant Sabatier 01:58 – Why Entrepreneurship is a Powerful Path to Financial Independence 04:08 – Is Now a Good Time to Start a Business? 07:40 – Using Entrepreneurship to Create Peace, Not Just Money 11:59 – Grant’s Journey: From Digital Marketing to Multi-Millionaire 14:24 – Selling Millennial Money and Building MMG Media Group 18:55 – Levels of Entrepreneurship: Solopreneur to Empire 23:17 – Avoiding Growth Traps & Building a Business That Fits Your Life 24:43 – A Typical Week in Grant’s Life as a Dad and Entrepreneur 29:40 – Parenting, Balance, and Being a Role Model for Your Kids 32:03 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Trust Yourself and Start Small 37:35 – Where to Find Grant’s Book “Inner Entrepreneur” MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠Crew⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠ ⁠- Convenient Estate Planning HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Nev Maraj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do the world’s greatest investors know that the rest of us don’t? In this episode, we sit down with William Green, author of Richer, Wiser, Happier, to uncover the timeless principles he's learned from interviewing legends like Charlie Munger, Howard Marks, and Bill Miller. Rather than chasing hot tips or quick wins, William reveals how traits like emotional control, simplicity, and avoiding big mistakes can help you build wealth—and a more meaningful life. We discuss the difference between gambling and investing, the wisdom of indexing for most families, and why subtracting noise can lead to clarity and success. Whether you're just starting out or well along your financial journey, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for life and money. If you want to become richer, wiser, happier, this episode with William Green is a must-listen. RESOURCES: ⁠⁠Sponsors + Partners + Deals⁠⁠ Richer, Wiser, Happier (book): https://amzn.to/4kkLq2e (affiliate) Chapters 00:00 – Timeless wisdom and survival in investing 01:00 – Introduction to William Green and his journey 03:30 – The surprising philosophical nature of top investors 06:00 – Learning from failure: The Bill Miller story 08:30 – The power of accepting impermanence (Mujo & Howard Marks) 11:30 – Gambling vs. investing: Lessons from a young William 14:30 – The Buffett playbook and indexing for most families 18:00 – The art of subtraction and simplifying your financial life 22:00 – Defining a rich life: Health, relationships, peace of mind 25:00 – Charlie Munger’s key principle: Invert, always invert 28:30 – How to survive financial storms: Diversify and avoid leverage 32:00 – Dogged incremental progress and being “number one-ish” 36:00 – William’s biggest takeaway from 25 years of interviews 38:00 – Where to find Richer, Wiser, Happier and his podcast MKM RESOURCES: ⁠⁠MKM Coaching⁠⁠: Want 1-on-1 support with your family finance journey? Book a time with me today. ⁠⁠Coast FIRE Calculator⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you find out when you can slow down or stop investing for retirement. ⁠⁠Mortgage Payoff Calculator⁠⁠: A free calculator to help you see how fast you can become mortgage free. ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠: Subscribe for free to watch videos of these episodes and interviews. RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (SPONSORS AND AFFILIATES): ⁠⁠Monarch Money⁠⁠ - Best Budget App for Families & Couples ⁠⁠Empower⁠⁠ - Free Portfolio Tracker ⁠⁠Crew⁠⁠ - HYSA Banking Built for Families - Get an Extra 0.5% APY with my partner link ⁠⁠Ethos⁠⁠ - Affordable Term Life Insurance ⁠⁠Trust & Will⁠ ⁠- Convenient Estate Planning HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER: This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products. Opinions are the creators alone. Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Marriage Kids and Money (www.marriagekidsandmoney.com) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. CREDITS: Podcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson Editor: Johnny Sohl Podcast Support: Nev Maraj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices