The Debt-Free CEO Podcast

Welcome back to The Debt-Free CEO Podcast! In this episode, we reflect on the ups and downs of 2023 and set our sights on the goals and plans for 2024. I share tips on creating dream boards, evaluating revenue, managing expenses, and planning for financial success. Whether you're a business owner or not, these insights can help you make progress towards your financial goals. So grab a pen and paper, tune in, and get ready to make 2024 your best year yet!In this episode I share:How having a dream board can help you set and visualize your goalsComparing numbers from previous yearsPlanning ahead for unexpected expensesThe ways that starting a business can add additional monthly incomeQuestions to ask yourself when planning for 2024Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode21Resources:Start your digital marketing business todayDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceoWebsite - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comPinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Today, we're discussing the realities of spending and finances during the holiday season. The fall and last three months of the year can be hectic and draining on both your schedule and bank account. However, I want to assure you that you don't have to buy everyone a gift during Christmas. You have the permission to prioritize your own financial well-being and not feel obligated to give gifts to every family member. The holidays are about being with loved ones, not excessive gift-giving. If you can't afford to give everyone a present, it's perfectly okay to save your money and prioritize your own financial stability. Remember, your family and friends will understand and appreciate your decision to take care of yourself. Don't let societal expectations dictate your financial decisions during the holiday season.In this episode I share:Permission to not feel the need to buy everyone in your family a giftPlanning ahead for travelingUsing a shopping list to help you over buy and over spend on things you don’t needHow to save for the holidays year round Using a Sinking Fund to help you save for the holidays ahead of timeVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode20/Resources:Start your digital marketing business todayDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookDon’t Miss Last Week’s Post:Ep. 18 - Prioritizing Profit Over Revenue in Your Online BusinessConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceoWebsite - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comPinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In today's episode, we have bookkeeper, Annie Hillman. Annie is here to share some invaluable insights and strategies for business owners who are looking to become more financially savvy. She shares her thoughts on understanding income and expenses, provides resources for navigating financial regulations, and offers tips for budgeting and planning for inconsistent income. In this episode we share:Understanding income and expenses in a businessTransitioning from one business to multiple clientsKeeping personal expenses separate from business expensesRecommended resources for tax and sales tax informationDealing with inconsistent incomeBudgeting and financial planning and overcoming financial hurdlesVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode19Resources:Start your digital marketing business todayDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookTax Resources:AvalaraTaxJarConnect with Annie: Instagram - @1428financialWebsite - www.1428financial.comConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceoWebsite - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comPinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Today's episode delves into the crucial topic of prioritizing profit over revenue in your online business. We discuss how this shift can lead you to financial freedom and the path to becoming debt-free. I want to emphasize the importance of understanding that increasing profit doesn't always require increasing revenue. I’ll guide you through pricing strategies, tracking business numbers, and making informed decisions that will scale your business while also achieving your financial goals. In this episode I share:Significance of focusing on profit instead of revenuePractical strategies to increase profit margins and maximize take-home incomeIdentifying unnecessary expenses and reevaluating pricing structuresPricing strategies to increase profitabilityVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode18Resources:Start your digital marketing business todayDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookYes/No FlowchartBook your FREE 15 minute Clarity CallConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceoWebsite - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comPinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Branda Villacob, a copywriter and email marketing expert who shares her insights on maintaining consistent income as a freelancer. We dive into Branda's journey as a former teacher turned solopreneur and how she built her successful freelancing business. We discuss the importance of having a side business while still teaching, saving money, and the mindset shift needed to transition out of the classroom. Branda also shares her experiences with the challenges and growing pains of running a business, particularly the plateau with income and the importance of understanding your worth. If you're a freelancer or aspiring freelance entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable tips and advice to help you maintain consistent income. In this episode we share:The importance of having a side business while still teaching, saving money, and the mindset shift needed to transition out of the classroomThe challenges and growing pains of running a businessWays to have consistent income as a freelancerVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode17/Resources:Start your digital marketing business todayDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Branda:Instagram - @therelevantcollectiveWebsite - www.therelevantcollective.comConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceoWebsite - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comPinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode of the Debt-Free CEO podcast, we discuss the order of prioritizing debt, saving, and investing. Paying off high-interest consumer debt is the first priority, followed by building a small emergency fund. We compare investing money versus paying off low-interest car loans and highlight the importance of having an emergency fund. We also provide information on HSAs, FSAs, and Roth IRAs as investment options. Real estate is mentioned as a good investment, and we emphasize the importance of spending less than you earn. Check out previous episodes for more financial advice and upcoming interviews with a financial advisor.In this episode I share:The interest rate on your credit cards will determine what to pay off firstBenefits of a high yield savings accountChanges to make when it comes to emergency fundsBest type of savings account to help you save moreThe order in which you should invest your moneyVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode16Resources:15-Minute FREE Clarity CallStart your digital marketing business todayDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookPrevious Episodes:Ep. 5 - The Framework to Going Debt Free: What I Would Do if Starting OverEp. 10 - Using the Debt-Free Method to Help You Save MoneyEp. 11 - What Debt Do You Pay Off First?Ep. 14 - The Debt Avalanche vs. The Debt Snowball MethodConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceoWebsite - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comPinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Most of us work hard at having financial freedom, paying off debt and paying attention to how we save our money. But not many of us do things in a nontraditional way. We tend to stick to what we know works and what is safe.In today's episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sierra Scacco, a scaling coach and entrepreneur who made a bold and nontraditional decision with her husband and children that had significant financial involvement. Sierra shares her inspiring journey of starting her business while caring for her young son, and how she transitioned from copywriting to coaching. She also reveals a major life change she and her husband made, which involved renting out their home and living in a travel trailer. Sierra gives insights into the financial considerations behind this decision and discusses their debt situation, including student loan debt, car loans, and medical debt. Her story is inspiring and helps us gain valuable insights on taking calculated risks and managing finances on your entrepreneurial journey.In this episode we share:How Sierra made a nontraditional decision to live in a travel trailer to be closer to her husband's work and avoid the high cost of buying a new houseStarted her own business as a scaling coach after leaving her initial career as a copywriterPrioritizing being debt-free, avoiding student loan debt, and managing their other debts, such as car and medical billsThe ways in which making unconventional decisions can lead to exciting opportunities and financial freedomVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode15Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Sierra:Follow on Instagram - @sierra.scaccoConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Today’s episode is about Master Resell Rights. What is it? Why is it so popular right now? Is it a scam and should I buy into it? If you’re on TikTok and Instagram right now, MRR is blowing up! That is because it’s a new idea and people are obsessed with what you’re able to do with it. Listen to today’s episode as I break down everything Master Resell Rights related so you can form your own opinion on the topic. In this episode, I share:What does MRR mean?What are the two courses out right now that have MRR attached to them? What are you actually buying and what do these courses help you with?How can you use this product?How can this product help you with your financial goal? Common misconceptions with MRR. Resources:The Debt-Free CEO Learn about MRRDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook

Today’s episode is about two different ways to pay off debt the quickest: the Debt Avalanche and the Debt Snowball methods.If you've been tackling your debt without a specific strategy, don't worry - you're still doing great! But if you're looking to maximize your savings on interest and pay off your debt as efficiently as possible, then this episode is for you. We'll discuss the pros and cons of each method and how they can help you achieve your debt-free goals.If you have heard of either one of these before, you may be wondering which one is best. Even though there is not a right or wrong method, I will be walking you through what each method is, explaining how they work, and let you know which one I followed to pay off $53,000 worth of debt in twelve monthsIn this episode I share:What is the difference between the Debt Avalanche and the Debt Snowball methods?Some pros and cons between the two methodsHow do choose which method is best for you and your financial situationThe method I used to get out of debt in one yearVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode14/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

In today's episode, we have a client spotlight featuring Allison Nitsch, who went from drowning in interest fees to being well on her way to becoming debt-free. Allison shares her inspiring journey of conquering debt and taking control of her finances after our 1:1 coaching call together.Join us as we dive into Allison's financial transformation. From researching financial statements to tackling income, bills, and debt, Allison sought guidance on how to navigate her financial challenges. When we met, she had the dilemma of having extremely large interest fees, and wanted to know whether to use her tax return to pay off debt or put it into savings.Discover how Allison made strategic financial moves, such as opening a 0% interest credit card and doing a balance transfer to diligently working on paying off the debt.In this episode we share:The importance of overcoming negative financial cyclesBeing prepared for unexpected expensesBuilding a financial cushion to avoid relying on credit cards during emergenciesThe significance of setting financial goals and making mindful purchasing decisionsAsking for help!!Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode13/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.comConnect with Allison:Instagram - @allisonnitschWebsite - allisonnitsch.com

I know a lot of us either have the goal of owning a home, or we already do own a home, but sometimes I hear people say that they are debt free and want to know if the mortgage counts. So today I dive into all things mortgages: whether you should pay it off to be debt-free, when to buy a home and should you purchase now or wait until a “better” time.In this episode I share:When to know the best time to purchase a homeWhat happens if you wait to purchase a home until you are “ready”How and when to pay off your mortgageThe effect of interest rates and home prices on purchasing decisionsVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode11/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Most Americans have some sort of consumer debt. Car payments, credit cards, school loans. Sometimes knowing where to start can be the hardest part. This episode is going to explain which debt to pay off first, and give you some tools and resources to help you do so. Sometimes just knowing we got ourselves into debt is overwhelming and can negatively affect our mindset enough to where we do nothing instead of taking action. Sometimes we really just have to start taking action to get the ball rolling. In this episode I share:The most important debt to pay off firstHow to negotiate medical bills and manage them effectivelyAddressing school and personal loansRefinancing or making extra payments to car loansVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode11/Resources:1:1 Strategy SessionsDitch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Being able to pay off debt is amazing, but what about being able to save money for those unexpected circumstances that arise?Having a savings account can not only help you have money for things that come up, but it can also help keep you out of debt.In this episode of the Debt-Free CEO Podcast, I share tips and strategies on how to save money, and emphasize the similarities between paying off debt and building a savings. I want to encourage you to learn from my experiences and implement better money management techniques into your own lives.It is important to have an emergency fund and a budget to spend less than what is earned to ensure financial stability and the ability to allocate funds toward specific goals.In this episode I share:Building a savings account that will help you out in financial emergenciesHow everything comes back to your budgetYou have to be making more than you are spendingTips to building a savings while you are still going debt-freeVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode10/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Imagine feeling lost and alone in your entrepreneurial journey, desperately searching for a tribe to call your own. That's exactly how I felt when I first started my business, until I stumbled upon a game-changing discovery. The key to unlocking success and achieving your dreams is through the power of community. By connecting with like-minded individuals, sharing ideas, and supporting each other's goals, you'll find the motivation, inspiration, and drive needed to take your business to the next level. Are you ready to unlock your full potential? Join me as I share my journey and reveal how a community can transform your entrepreneurial path.In this episode I share:The role a strong community can play in your business journeyHow the right mentor/group can propel you to new heightsHow online communities can offer invaluable support for entrepreneurs.Platforms that make business coaching accessible and effectiveVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode9/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Are you tired of trading time for money in your online business? In this episode, learn how to scale and grow your business without working more hours. But is hourly pricing really the best option? Listen in as I explain other options that help move you away from the hourly rates that could be holding you back from your income goals.In this episode I share:Techniques to grow your income without sacrificing your work-life balance.Learn the ins and outs of curating tailored packages to elevate your value in the market.Demystify the process of setting an hourly rate that suits your desired income and workload.Delve into the benefits of delegating tasks for better focus on your profit-generating duties.Recognize the importance of tapping into the knowledge of expert mentors and thriving communities.Visit The Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode8/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateFree Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-FreeRelated Episode:How to Use Freelancing to Help With Your Financial GoalsConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Do you dream of breaking free from financial constraints and achieving true independence? Well, I have a solution that just might be your ticket to financial freedom - the power of freelancing! With the flexibility and endless opportunities offered by freelancing, you can finally attain the financial stability you desire. Let me show you how to unlock your full potential and realize your dreams of living life on your own terms.In this episode I cover:Harness your creative power and translate it into lucrative freelancing projects.Embrace the potential of freelancing to achieve financial independence and stability.Use the extra money to pay off debt, or as your sole source of income.Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode7/Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplatePassion to Profit and On to Debt-Free WorkbookConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Discover the secrets to finding an extra $500 a month for your family's financial goals in this episode of the Debt Free CEO podcast. From cutting subscriptions to freelancing, you'll learn practical tips to increase your income and reduce expenses.In this episode, we will cover: The significance of budgeting and eliminating needless expenses for long-term financial health.The benefits of selling unused possessions to generate additional income.Learn how low-cost freelancing methods can jump-start your business from home.Understand the effects of an extra $500 monthly income on your journey to financial independence.Apply straightforward and efficient steps to enhance your financial status.Visit The Show Notes:What an Extra $500 Can Do For You and Your Family & Where to Find ItResources Mentioned:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram -  @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO CommunityEmail - info@meganmendez.com

Are you looking to find a way to manage your finances, and become debt free?After paying off $53,000 of debt myself, in this episode I am going to take you through the same debt-free framework that I would use if I was starting over today.In this episode, we will cover: Developing a strategy to follow so that you can become debt freeThe significance of preparing for taxes, expenses, and savings in advanceTransitioning from your current profession to achieve desired income goals.Delve into the journey of finding and cultivating your true passion as time goes on.Recognize the role of hard work in accomplishing worthwhile objectives.Visit The Show Notes:The Framework to Going Debt Free: What I Would Do if Starting OverResources Mentioned:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-FreeFinances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthlyFree Budget TemplateConnect with Megan:Follow on Instagram -  @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community

Money is a tricky matter, and sometimes it takes debt to get to where you need to be. In this episode, we will dive into the differences between good vs. bad debt. I will provide insight into what debt is worth considering and what should be avoided. We speak on mortgages, car loans, 0% interest and credit cards.If you're feeling overwhelmed and frustrated by the amount of debt you are accumulating despite the budgeting, cutting costs, and debt repayment strategies you may already be taking, then you are not alone!In this episode, you will be able to: Distinguish between good debt and bad debt for financial success. Identify high-interest credit card debt as a dangerous financial pitfall. Learn how mortgages and student loans can serve as examples of beneficial debt. Establish positive credit through wise credit card usage. Grasp the significance of budgeting and aligning your financial decisions with your long-term objectives.Resources Mentioned:Free Budget TemplateVisit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode4Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram -  @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community

Struggling with money management as a couple? Find out the essential strategies for successful financial planning and communication!In this episode you will learn:1. How to be a successful financial team with your spouse, even if one of you is a saver and the other is a spender.2. The importance of communication and compromise when it comes to budgeting for a successful marriage.3. How to get your spouse on board with budgeting and financial goals, even if they don't care about it.Resources Mentioned:Free Budget TemplateDon’t Miss the First Two Episodes:How I Paid Off $53,000 to Become Debt FreeA Budget is the Foundation to Your Finances Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__Website - meganmendez.comJoin The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community