The City Girl Savings Podcast

I’ve accomplished a lot in my life and while there is still more I want to do, and by no means do I think I’m perfect, I do feel like I’ve mastered self-discipline well enough to get me to where I’m at today. Mastering self-discipline over the years has no doubt helped me to reach new levels and goals I didn’t know how to obtain. Being able to tell myself no, to hold myself accountable to the things I say I’m going to do, and stay disciplined in the face of temptation has built a resiliency and confidence in myself that I’m proud of. I think anyone can do and feel the same. In this episode, I’m sharing how mastering self-discipline has helped me reach new levels. My hope is that you take some things away from this episode to start working on your own self-discipline.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:40] Raya shares what self-discipline means to her. Raya sees it as the ability to get things done, even when she doesn’t want to. [05:15] Raya’s consistent workout routine has helped Raya keep her body free from pain, enhance mobility and increase her mental fortitude. [09:00] Raya shares that she’s not the type of person who functions best going into the unknown. She prefers planning and preparation. [13:58] Instead of letting increased weight gain (with a consistent workout routine) derail Raya, she shares it encouraged her to find a real solution. [17:35] What goal will have the most impact on your health, mind or well-being? Focus your energy on that goal and see how it impacts other goals.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #119 – How I Grew My Business While Working Full-Time in Corporate Listen to Episode #141 – How Managing My Money Has Boosted My Confidence Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Women are running businesses, households, finances, relationships and careers. That alone makes us leaders. Combine all we have to do in our personal lives with the pressures of growing professionally, burnout and overwhelm may not be far behind. If you struggle with fostering a mindset that helps you think like a leader, an executive, or the BOSS that you are, let’s change that today! I’m so excited to chat with Executive Coach Latesha Byrd about how women can start thinking like leaders – in their work and personal lives. Latesha is sharing how anyone can excel in their work environment and create the impact they desire.   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:40] Latesha has always operated through a lens of never settling. Her self-belief has always been high, thanks to growing up in a single-parent household. [09:00] There is no set way to be an executive. When you think of executive presence, you get to decide what that looks like for you. [19:25] You don’t need to talk about wins in comparison with someone else. Compare current you to past you and share that growth recognition. [29:00] Getting out of your comfort zone and taking risks is what helps build confidence in yourself. “Success leaves clues.” [39:08] Assess your self-worth against your true values. Also, don’t be afraid to say no to things that aren’t aligned.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Latesha on Instagram Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

With all the things we have going on in our lives, it can be hard to find the time to be productive. And while I’m a firm believer in “good things take time”, if there’s an opportunity for me to be as productive and effective as possible, in the shortest amount of time, you better believe I’m taking it! My money and finances have been a top priority for me for decades, and that has allowed me to learn tricks and hacks to manage my money as efficiently as possible. In this episode, I’m sharing 6 productive ways to manage your money in 10 minutes a day or less.  Thankfully, you don’t have to spend hours and hours on your finances to see results and reach your goals.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:55] If you haven’t started tracking your spending regularly, Raya breaks down the importance of doing so for growth in your finances. [04:16] Building the habit of tracking your spending daily will result in you spending minimal time on this task, but get maximum benefit. [07:50] Regularly looking at your budget makes sure you’re staying aligned with your goals and financial intentions. [11:34] Tie daily goals towards your bigger long-term goals. Break down those bigger goals, especially savings goals, into easier-to-manage chunks. [14:45] You don’t have to spend long hours and a lot of time working on your finances. You can make an impact with strategic short-and-sweet tasks.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Let Raya create a budget plan for you! Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Have you ever wanted to do something but didn’t know what step to take first, so you start researching?  Before you know it, research leads to too much information and you decide not to do the thing you originally wanted? Welcome to analysis paralysis. Analysis paralysis is when overthinking and over-analyzing a problem or decision prevents you from taking action. It's a state of being unable to move forward because you’re overwhelmed by data, options, or the fear of making a mistake. With so much information at our fingertips, it doesn’t take much to feel overwhelmed. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways to overcome analysis paralysis so you can start taking action towards the things you want to do or the problems you want to solve.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:51] While analysis paralysis isn’t something Raya struggles with, not seeking enough information has posed some problems for her in the past. [04:51] Let momentum from completing the first small step help you build the confidence you need to move forward without overwhelm. [07:58] Progress over perfection – easy concept to say but much harder to implement, especially for women. [11:34] Too many options often results in too much data to go through, decreasing your confidence in successfully making a decision. [14:31] Raya shares an example of how to pinpoint feelings associated with future goals or decisions to help you decide to move forward or not.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #57 – How to Spark Inspiration Within Yourself Listen to Episode #75 – Stop Putting Off Improving Your Situation Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

I started City Girl Savings back in 2015, while I didn’t go-full time with running the business until 2021, I’ve had women working for me long before then. I always had the intention of hosting a team retreat, but the timing was never right. In 2024, I declared there would never be a “perfect” time, so I made the decision to get our dates on the calendar! I reached out to The CGS Team via slack to confirm dates nearly 8 months out. By the end of December, I received final RSVPs and started booking everything. In this episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the first ever CGS Team Retreat and how the overall weekend together went.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:53] In spite of working together since 2022, the CGS Team retreat was the first time CGS Team members met in person. [03:27] Meeting at Raya’s place in Palm Springs was a great location since 2 of the 5 CGS Team Members already lived in California. [07:00] Curious who the first one to fall asleep each night was? If you guessed Raya, you’re right! She shares some background on why that was. [10:03] The CGS Team proved they could work well together while trying to get off The Titanic during an Escape Room activity. [12:06] Before parting ways Sunday morning, the CGS Team had their final meal together at a local Palm Springs diner!   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #77 – BTS of the CGS Team Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Is it just me, or does life almost seem to feel like one big balancing act? Between work, school, kids, families, partners, relationships, businesses, finances, and health, the older we get, the more we need to manage. I personally don’t think things will always be 100% in balance, but I do believe women can achieve the productivity results they want, without feeling like something has to give. That’s why I’m so excited to talk with Non-Profit CEO and CGS Client Tiffany Tate today about pursuing top-tier productivity. Let me stress that high-level productivity isn’t about being perfect, it’s about making it all work for your world. If you struggle with the balancing act of all areas of life, you don’t want to miss this conversation.   Here's a glance at this episode: [03:05] Tiffany shares that while life is what led her to becoming a go-getter, she does feel like she recently learned how to work smarter, not harder. [12:08] Being guilt-oriented has made it hard for Tiffany to follow traditional routines and habit ideologies. Instead, she shares what works for her. [21:50] Tiffany shares how compartmentalization has helped her power through and grow professionally, but offers words of caution. [34:37] Lessons, not losses. Tiffany shares that you must move forward with your decisions and learn from those that could be perceived as mistakes. [42:27] Instead of focusing far into the future, when thinking about goals, identify what needs to be fixed or worked on now.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Tiffany on LinkedIn Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Part of my success in life has been attributed to seeing what I want and believing it’s possible for me.  Having a vision of what I want, where I want to be, or who I want to be has helped me do what I need to on a day-to-day basis to get there. Seeing is believing, so if you can’t see yourself achieving your goals, you’re much less likely to actually reach them. The mind is a beautiful thing. If you start picturing yourself already having what you want, your brain will function to do things that will help you get there. In this episode, I’m sharing how a healthy mindset fuels success and some ways you can foster a healthy mindset to reach your financial goals. Financial success is possible, and you need to believe it before you achieve it!   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:50] Do you think you are worthy of your dream life? Raya challenges listeners to get clear on how worthy they feel about the life of their dreams. [04:03] If you are constantly thinking you’re broke, you’re probably always spending money to affirm that you’re broke. Your mind is a powerful tool. [07:25] Raya shares that getting to the root of her gut issues has tremendously impacted her mindset because she’s consuming better things. [11:36] Picture yourself living your dream life. You must be able to see what it looks like for you so you believe it’s possible for you to achieve. [14:43] Raya shares that consistent journaling allows her to look back at old journal entries and see the growth that happens over time.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 101 – Adversity Breeds Resilience Listen to Episode 11 – The Power of Visualization to Reach Your Goals Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!  

As someone who has been in and out of debt multiple times, but now actively maintains an 800+ credit score, I can honestly say that credit plays a huge role in building a strong financial foundation. Having healthy credit habits can open the door for you to leverage credit to your advantage – whether that’s buying assets, increasing your cash flow, or using it for investment purposes. If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, don’t fret! You can start implementing credit habits now that cultivate a strong financial foundation. And, I want to help you do that! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 credit habits to build into your normal routine to cultivate a solid financial foundation. Remember, if I can do it, anyone else can too!   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:50] Raya shares what her debt and credit situation looked like before she started focusing on building good credit habits. [05:20] Automation can be a life saver for anyone’s financial situation. Raya recommends setting up auto pay to make sure no bills are left behind. [08:31] Raya leveraged the Snowball Method to pay off her debt. She prefers putting extra money towards the smallest balance debt to pay it off faster. [13:51] Reviewing your credit report is not the same as looking at your credit score. Raya shares where everyone can pull their credit reports to review. [17:34] Raya strategically uses open, no-balance credit cards to get activity on the card without carrying monthly balances.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 15 – My Debt Free Story and Biggest Takeaways Request a complimentary call with Raya to discuss your money goals! Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

I can’t quite believe it, but we’ve reached the halfway point of another year. 2025 has been a whirlwind, and I know I’m not the only one who feels that way. Despite everything that may be happening outside of our control, we need to keep working towards our dream life…and hopefully the goals you’ve set for the year help you get there! At the end of 2024, I shared my personal and business goals for 2025, and since we’ve reached the halfway point of the year, I want to do a quick mid-year goal check in! This helps me stay on top of what I set out to accomplish in the year and holds me accountable by sharing with you! Hopefully this episode encourages you to do your own mid-year goals check in as well!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:10] Raya kicks off with sharing her personal goals for 2025 and the progress that has been made towards those goals. [04:40] One of Raya’s 2025 personal goals is to max out her Roth IRA. She has contributed $5500 of the $7000 needed to max out for the year. [07:44] Another personal goal for Raya is to read 2 books per month. Due to family coming into town, this goal is not on track, but Raya shares her plan for getting back on schedule. [10:07] While revenue is still a focus for business, Raya has shifted focus to increasing the profit margin for the business. Progress is being made this year. [12:30] Have a friend who would like this podcast? Help us reach our 2025 goals of getting 45,000 episode downloads!   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 157 – My Personal and Business Goals for 2025 Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve seen and felt the importance of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Not only do you feel better in the present, but you prevent future health problems from messing with your quality of life. I truly believe enhancing your mind and body with proper fuel is essential to a healthy quality of life.  That’s why I’m so excited to talk with Fitness Coach Michael Williams today. Michael is a certified personal trainer who specializes in women’s fat loss. While there’s so much more to being healthy than getting rid of body fat, a lot of the health and physical activity benefits will result in less fat! Michael and I are talking about the importance of prioritizing health for women, building healthier habits, and staying consistent with healthy living.   Here's a glance at this episode: [04:40] Michael always leads with “why”. What’s your why for wanting to get in shape? Understanding that helps you stay on track. [12:43] Eating 1 or 2 meals a day doesn’t cut it for women. Michael shares what women need to do to see the fat loss results they want. [24:50] YouTube can be a great resource for learning how to properly train and lift weights, especially if you’re tight on funds. [31:40] Michael shares that the scale isn’t the best indicator of progress, especially if weightlifting is involved. “The scale is a liar”. [51:20] You don’t have to deprive yourself when you go out to eat, just do your best to plan your meals out as best as possible.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Michael on Instagram Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Are you on track with your money goals for this year? If you’re listening to this episode in real-time, then we’re wrapping up the first half of the year. What better time to assess your goal progress, acknowledge what’s working and not working, and reset your money goals for the rest of the year? Failing to take the time to assess your annual goal progress before the year ends can result in you not achieving your goal. Wouldn’t it be worth a little time to assess and finish the year off strong? Of course it would! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways to reset your money goals to get you through year end feeling as accomplished as possible. You may not hit each and every goal you’ve set, but I have no doubt serious progress will be made!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:08] Your money goals are never supposed to be a source of shame. Give yourself grace when things don’t go according to plan. [04:50] Reconnect with the “why” behind your goals. This is an important step for resetting because it will keep you focused on working towards your goals. [07:55] It’s okay to be optimistic with your goals, but it’s important to reset your goal based on where you currently stand. [10:24] Breaking your goals down into monthly milestones to make them much more attainable on a day-to-day basis. [13:30] Raya shares some examples for adding accountability into your life. Whatever that looks like for you, it’s an important step to reaching your goals.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Need help crushing the second half of the year? Request a call with Raya now! Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

There’s no denying that Summer brings the “let’s be OUTSIDE” energy! The sun is usually shining, the pool is calling our names, and the days are longer. If you’re not careful though, summer can do a number on your budget. You may be killing your money goals and then a few months of the summer season can undo all that progress. Don’t let that be you, my friend! Fight the summer FOMO and need to just spend without consequence. You’ll be so much better off for it! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 hacks that keep me on track with my budget and goals, especially when the summer season temptation is calling my name!   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:43] FOMO stands for Fear of Missing Out. Summer is primetime for FOMO. Raya shares how to identify Summer FOMO. [04:23] Summer is a vibe, so acting like you won’t spend money in the summer season is a recipe for disaster. Instead, plan for summer fun spending. [07:11] No matter where you live, you can always find something free happening in your area or in surrounding areas. [11:00] Be honest and open about your budget and money goals. Communicate with your friends or family when you’re trying to avoid excess spending. [15:13] Tracking your spending every day or two doesn’t sound exciting in the summer, but it can be instrumental in keeping you on financial track.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Don’t have a budget? Grab a copy of my FREE Monthly Budget Overview Tracker! Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Who doesn’t love summer vibes?! Remember the days when summer meant no school and nothing to do? Oh, how I miss those times! I used to live my best life in the summer – all the way up until graduating college. Then, real life happened, and summer became no different from any other season. But that’s not 100% true. In fact, summer is the perfect time to reevaluate your spending habits, because the season usually starts right around the middle of the year. Whether you set annual goals or not, pulse checking on your spending and money habits midway through the year will leave you with enough time to implement any changes that may be needed in your finances. In this episode, I’m sharing why summer is the perfect time to reevaluate your spending habits, and how you can go about doing it!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:00] Want to save some extra money this summer? Join the Free 4-week Summer Savings Challenge now! [03:30] Summer is a great time to see how you’re making progress towards your annual goals and intentions. Raya shares some questions you can ask yourself. [05:43] Summer usually comes with its own spending temptations, this means being mindful and intentional is a must. [10:17] Don’t know where to start when it comes to budgeting and tracking your spending? Raya offers an easy solution for listeners. [14:00] Whatever you discover about your summer spending habits, create a new summer money rule to follow for future summer seasons.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Join the upcoming FREE 4-week Summer Savings Challenge! Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Here’s the thing: we all need boundaries. In our health, work, relationships, and finances…we need boundaries. Boundaries are there to protect your peace and prevent you from causing unnecessary harm. Setting financial boundaries is especially important because they keep you on the straight and narrow.  They keep you focused on doing the things that will help you reach your financial goals. If you struggle with setting financial boundaries, you don’t want to miss this episode! I’m sharing 6 ways to set financial boundaries and actually stick to them. As your situation changes, your boundaries change…but always having those limits will keep you moving in the direction of your goals.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:59] Raya shares how failing to set financial boundaries back in college resulted in her overspending on material things, leading her deep into debt. [04:35] Boundaries, especially financial boundaries, are there to alert you when you’re moving in the direction of stress and negativity. They are designed to help keep you on track. [09:58] Get comfortable with saying “That’s not in my budget”, so when something comes up, you can easily decline with an affirmative statement. [14:09] Know where you stand when it comes to lending or gifting money, so you can avoid rushed or emotional decisions. [17:26] If you want to stick to your boundaries (financial or otherwise), you need to learn how to clearly communicate them.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Join the upcoming FREE 4-week Summer Savings Challenge! Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

I’ve officially made it to my mid-30s and can honestly say that my body no longer functions like it did when I was in my early 20s. Back then, I couldn’t keep the weight on. I ate whatever I wanted and didn’t have a consistent workout routine. I would take college classes, like pilates and dance, to get my exercise in. After graduation, I did invest in a gym membership, mostly because the weight was slowly sticking more than it normally had! Now, I consistently work out 5 days a week, and have for years. My diet has been a little harder to build consistency with. That’s why I’m so excited to welcome Dr. Lisa Folden to the show today! Her company Healthy Phit specializes in weight-inclusive physical therapy, health and body image coaching, and guidance on sustaining a well-balanced diet. Get ready to learn how to foster a healthy relationship with your body and take care of it the way it needs!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:59] Lisa shares how she got into the medicinal space, after aspirations of it as early as 16. She shares how she sought out body image data. [11:21] When we’re in tune with our bodies and can recognize things aren’t normal, that’s the time to seek our additional help to get back to comfortable. [21:47] Dr. Lisa works with people who struggle with eating disorders. Often times, when they are the smallest weight, they are struggling the most. [32:57] A lot of the work Dr. Lisa does stems around confronting body image issues. Confront what’s wrong and normalize looking at your body. [40:08] Burnout is what our world is set up for. Don’t be afraid to get rest. Dr. Lisa shares how she took a nap today!   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Dr. Lisa on Instagram Visit the HealthyPhit website Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

I’m a Virgo, so I thrive on routines and structure. I know that isn’t the case for everyone, but I do know that routines and structure with money can help anyone in some shape or form. There’s something to be said about financial organization and feeling in control of your money situation.  In this episode, I’m sharing 7 daily routines that set you up for success in your life and money. These routines don’t have to be time-consuming, they shouldn’t cause any stress, and they should leave you feeling empowered and in control once completed. Start slow and steady by implementing one routine and a time and watch the transformation that takes place!   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:35] Whether it’s at the start of the workday or after coffee, take some time to look over your spending accounts. [04:07] Start getting comfortable looking at your accounts. You don’t have to do anything but build that ease. [06:34] It took Raya 6 years to save for her Palm Springs home. Don’t worry about how long it will take to reach your goals, just keep them top of mind to stay motivated. [10:26] Dedicate a few minutes each day to learning something new about personal finance. Read a book, check out a blog post, or follow financial influencers! [12:50] Take time at the end of each day to plan your next day. What’s coming up? What do you need to tackle?   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Request a complimentary call with Raya Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

If I had to choose just one financial tool to improve my situation, hands down, it would be a budget. The course of my life changed with a budget nearly a decade and a half ago. Sure, I may have been forced into that situation, but regardless of how I got there, a budget turned everything around for me. Now, I’ve made a career helping women turn their own lives around with a budget. No matter how much or how little you make, a budget is truly a game-changer. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways budgeting is the key to living the life you’ve always dreamed of. Get ready to become a budget-lover, just like I became one so many years ago.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:55] What had started as a necessity to budget has now become a career for Raya, as she coaches women to set and stick to budget plans. [04:04] An integral part of the budgeting process is making sure your spending is in line with your budget. Don’t skip this step! [07:06] A budget helps you plan for both the expected and the unexpected. Handling money now becomes a stress-free lifestyle. [10:08] Budgeting is a way to sustain the life you currently have, so it can help you get to the life you actually want. [14:00] Not convinced a budget can help you create freedom? When you have control of your finances, you gain the freedom to say yes or no to everything.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 1 – Big City Spender to City Girl Saver Listen to Episode 3 – Breaking Through the Stigma of Budgeting Request a complimentary call with Raya Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Did you know that 40 million U.S. adults suffer from anxiety disorders? That’s about 19% of the population and whether you are included in that statistic or not, you’ve likely experienced some form of anxiety over the course of your life. I’d even go as far as to say, maybe it was driven by finances. In fact, 70% of Americans reported stress in their finances. Between inflation, rising costs, job instability and fears of the current state of the economy, it’s all too easy to let finances stress you out. If you struggle with money anxiety, I want to help! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 steps to get rid of your anxiety around money and feel more at peace in your situation.   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:47] Got money fears? It’s completely understandable. However, it’s important to take control of your mindset, as it plays a big role in your peace. [04:46] Fears can be paralyzing, but that doesn’t mean they are realistic. Raya walks through a few examples of determining if your fears are realistic or not.  [09:30] Focus on what you can control. This is a critical step to reducing your money anxiety. Raya shares how she reminds herself to stay focused on controllable things. [13:38] What can you work towards in the next 30 days? List out the game plan and steps you can take to achieve that thing. [16:28] Raya shares a few money affirmations you can start using today.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Get your CGS Personal Finance Portfolio now! Listen to Episode 80 – 8 Things Everyone Should be Saving For Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Here’s the thing. We only have this one life here on earth. And since our time is so limited, it should be filled with things that bring us true happiness. Whether that’s work, family, travel, or passion projects. Creating a life you love should be a pursuit we all strive for. That’s why I’m so excited to welcome Catie Hogan to the show today. Catie is an entrepreneur, mom, speaker, comedy writer and she’s made multiple career shifts. Catie and I are going to talk about how women can create a life they love and how to leverage money to help them in the process.   Here's a glance at this episode: [03:20] Catie’s trigger was student loan debt. She found herself in a dark place thinking about how to pay off six-figures of student loans. [11:08] Catie saw a shift in how her parents’ handled money. That had a big impact on Catie growing up.  [21:54] Investing in a 401k is a great starting point. Make this a priority if you can, because it is a way to get started. [30:49] As she’s gotten older, Catie has found it easier to say no to things that don’t align with her values, financial and otherwise. [38:29] Catie walks through the process of writing a parody play and how it ended up getting on Broadway.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Catie on Instagram Subscribe to Catie’s Newsletter Cents of Humor Follow Catie on LinkedIn Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Have you ever been intentional with consistent gratitude? Meaning, every day you acknowledge the things you’re grateful for, for an extended period of time. If you have been intentional with gratitude and appreciation, you probably have noticed the benefits.  The more grateful you are, the more you seem to have and the happier you seem to be. Not only that, when you appreciate what you currently have (instead of focusing on what you don’t have), you open the door for more. If you struggle with appreciating what you currently have going for you, I want to help. In this episode, I’m sharing 7 ways to practice gratitude for what you currently have to allow you to attract abundance into your life. Just because you appreciate the money you have or the current things you have doesn’t mean you can’t work towards more. The point is to be grateful for where you are and what you have, so you’re not constantly focused on what you don’t have. This is key to attracting abundance. Keep working for your goals but appreciate the journey along the way!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:23] Remember a time when you had less than what you have now. This is one of the easiest ways to be grateful for your current situation. [05:20] Every time you go to pay a bill or spend money on something that sustains your lifestyle, express how grateful you are to cover that expense.  [08:47] Feeling like your budget doesn’t include the things you love? Take a closer look at how your money is allocated currently and work from there. [12:06] It may seem like an obvious tip to write down the things you’re grateful for daily, but it really does help you grow your gratitude reserve. [15:35] There’s an abundance of information and education out there to help you with money, you just have to seek it out.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 70 – My Budget Non-Negotiables Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!