Financial Coaching for Women: How To Budget, Manage Money, Pay Off Debt, Save Money, Paycheck Plans

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Are you tired of that suffocating paycheck-to-paycheck cycle—even though you make good money? You’re not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong. In this episode, Shana and Vanessa are breaking down exactly how to get a paycheck ahead and why it’s the key to breathing room in your budget.

We're diving into:

1. Why living paycheck to paycheck is still the norm for so many (even with a solid income)
2. How the budgeting system most of us learned is working against us
3. What it actually looks like to be a paycheck ahead (and why it changes everything)
4. The exact steps to shift your budget one paycheck ahead—without the overwhelm
5. Real client stories and examples to help you visualize what this looks like in real life
6. How being a paycheck ahead makes your budget automatic, less stressful, and way more peaceful

Whether your paychecks land on the 1st, 15th, or every other Friday—this episode will help you finally feel in control of your money (instead of always catching up). If you’ve ever said, “I make decent money, but I still feel broke,” this one’s for you.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’ve ever looked at your bank account and thought, “Wait… where did my money just go?” — this episode is your episode, bestie.

This week, we’re breaking down the 7 real reasons so many of us stay stuck in the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle (even if we’re making good money). We’re talking overspending, surprise expenses, one giant messy bank account, and some serious decision fatigue.

And don't worry — we’re not just pointing out the problems. We’re showing you how to flip the script and finally get a paycheck ahead, with practical tips to bring clarity, calm, and control to your budget.

We cover:

💸 Why budgeting by paycheck is keeping you broke

📆 The power of monthly budgeting and thinking bigger

🏦 Why one messy account is low-key ruining everything

🔄 The spending mistake most of us don’t even realize we’re making

🚨 How "unexpected" expenses are actually very expected

🧾 Paying for your past vs. planning your future

🎯 And why getting a paycheck ahead is more doable than you think

We’re diving into mindset shifts and giving you the step-by-step game plan to take your budget from chaos to calm. This is the clarity and strategy you’ve been craving, without the shame spiral.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

This week, we’re talking about what it really looks like to budget with intention—and still enjoy your life. 💸❤️ One of our coaching clients joins us to share her experience going from feeling restricted by traditional advice (yes, we’re side-eyeing the rice and beans life 👀) to feeling empowered by a budget that actually fits her real life.

In this conversation, we dive into:

• Why budgeting isn’t about punishment or perfection
• The difference between guilt and guidance when it comes to spending
• How our six-month coaching journey helped her confidently adjust her numbers over time
• What it feels like to be supported and still allowed to celebrate with birthday cake (even if it’s a lil’ bougie) 🎂

This episode is for every budget bestie who's ever felt like they had to choose between getting out of debt and enjoying life. Spoiler: you don’t have to choose. You get to do both—with a plan that works for you.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Budget Besties, let’s be real—most of us don’t have a money problem… we’ve got a January problem. And not because it’s cold or because the holiday hangover is hitting hard, but because this is the month where all those “surprise expenses” from the year ahead start creeping in… and blowing up our budgets.

In this episode, Shana and Vanessa walk you through how to take control of your money in 2026 by planning on purpose. We’re not just talking about budgets—we’re talking about setting the vision for your entire year and making sure your money supports that vision. Whether it’s travel, a promotion, a kid starting kindergarten, or finally upgrading that 2001 backdoor (Shana 👀), this is the episode that helps you actually get ahead.

We’re sharing how to:

1. Go from “I don’t have a plan” to “I’ve got a plus!” 👏
2. Think big-picture (hello, bird’s eye view of 2026)
3. Break down those dreamy goals into a monthly budget that works
4. Use our Savings Bucket Planner to prep for those expenses that aren’t monthly—but still matter
5. Get your budget to match your life (not the other way around)
6. Automate your budget so your money moves where it’s supposed to—without you lifting a finger

If you’re making good money but still wondering where it’s all going, 2026 is the year we fix that. You don’t need a magic wand, you just need a budget that fits your life and goals—and that’s exactly what we’re showing you how to create.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Hey, budget besties! 💸 If you’ve ever bounced between three different budget templates and ditched them all by mid-February, this episode is your financial wake-up call—in the most loving, supportive, and fun way, of course.

Here’s the truth:

✨ The best budget in 2026 is the one you’ll still be using in December. ✨

And if you haven’t found that yet? Sis, it’s not your fault. You don’t have a template problem—you’ve got a system problem.

Shana and Vanessa are spilling the tea on why most budget templates don’t work (and leave you feeling like it’s your fault), and what you actually need to stay consistent all year long.

✔️ Why motivation and willpower shouldn’t be required to manage your money

✔️ The test to figure out if your current budget system is secretly sabotaging you

✔️ Common traps that make budgeting feel like a full-time job

✔️ Must-have features in the best budget template for real life in 2026

✔️ How our Simplified Budget System helps you plan per paycheck without the overwhelm

✔️ Why your budget should work for you—whether you're a busy mom, a college student, or deep in a life transition

✔️ The “aha!” moment clients get when their budget finally clicks

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Enjoy Day 5 of our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Watch it here.

Connect With Us:

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Enjoy Day 4 of our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Watch this episode here.

Connect With Us:

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Day 3 of our Money Makeover Bootcamp: How to Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck and Get One Paycheck Ahead. Enjoy!

Connect With Us:

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Get Debit Card Stickers Here!

Day 2 of our Money Makeover Bootcamp! Enjoy!

Connect With Us:

1️⃣ Facebook Group – Join the community. Our free group is where the real talk happens. Connect with other women who are learning how to budget, save, and finally feel in control, together. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Automate Your Budget Masterclass – Watch it now, no waiting. This FREE on-demand training shows you how to set up a budget that matches your lifestyle, without tracking every dollar or feeling restricted. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/automate

3️⃣ Budget – Grab our Simplified Budget System! You don’t need another budget, you need a system that does the math, makes the plan, and gives you permission to spend. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/budget

4️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching – Get a plan and a coach. We’ll build your full budget system together, so you always know what to do and feel confident doing it. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

5️⃣ Be on the Podcast – Free coaching, real convo. Come chat with us on the show! Get real-time financial coaching and help other women by sharing your story. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" 👈🏻 If that sounds like you… ✨ Please take a second to rate & review the show! It helps us reach more people—just like you—who are ready to change their financial future. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode! 💌 And if you're feeling extra generous, share this podcast with a friend who needs it. We’d be so honored. 🙌

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you want a simple budget that fits your life in 2026, not a spreadsheet you’ll abandon by February, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa walk through how to create a simple budget that works with your real income, real spending, and real lifestyle.

If you make good money but still feel like your budget never quite fits your life, the issue isn’t discipline or motivation. It’s that most budgeting methods weren’t designed for how people actually live.

This conversation breaks down how to build a simple, flexible budget using an automatic system that helps you manage money, pay off debt, and save consistently without feeling restricted or overwhelmed.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• What does a “simple budget” actually mean in real life?

• How do you create a budget that fits your lifestyle instead of fighting it?

• Why do most budgets stop working after a few weeks?

• How can an automatic budget system make managing money easier?

• What should a modern budget look like in 2026?

If you’re tired of starting over every month and want a budgeting system that works in the background while you live your life, start with the Money Makeover Bootcamp or jump straight into the Simplified Budget System when you’re ready.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If your New Year’s goal is to be better with money, but the idea of tracking every single expense makes you want to avoid your bank app altogether, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa break down why traditional budgeting methods don’t work for real life and what actually does.

If you make good money but still feel like you have nothing to show for it, the problem isn’t you. It’s the outdated budgeting systems you’ve been taught.

This conversation walks through how to build a simple, automatic budget system that helps you manage money, pay off credit card debt, and save consistently without guilt, restriction, or spreadsheet burnout.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• Why does tracking every penny feel exhausting and unsustainable?

• Why do most budgets feel restrictive even when you’re earning good money?

• What does it actually mean to have an automatic budget system?

• How can you stop living paycheck to paycheck without cutting everything you enjoy?

• What does a modern budget look like for real life, not perfect spreadsheets?

If you’re tired of starting over every month and want a budgeting system that works in the background while you live your life, start with the Money Makeover Bootcamp (hyperlinked again) or jump straight into the Simplified Budget System (hyperlinked again) when you’re ready.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’ve ever said “I want to be debt-free, but I’m not giving up lattes, date nights, or vacations,” this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa kick off 2026 with a realistic, sustainable plan to get out of debt without white-knuckling your way through the month or living on rice and beans.

If you make good money but still feel stuck with credit card debt, the issue isn’t discipline. It’s the debt payoff strategies you’ve been taught.

This conversation breaks down how to pay off debt using a system that fits real life, supports consistency, and doesn’t require you to sacrifice everything you enjoy.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• Why don’t you need to be “gazelle intense” to get out of debt?

• How can you track all of your debt in one clear, simple place?

• What are the three main ways to pay off debt and how do you choose the right one?

• Why aren’t minimum payments actually the enemy?

• How do you find your “extra on debt” number without stressing every month?

• How can you act as your own bank so unexpected expenses don’t derail your progress?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’ve ever said “I want to be debt-free, but I’m not giving up lattes, date nights, or vacations,” this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa kick off 2026 with a realistic, sustainable plan to get out of debt without white-knuckling your way through the month or living on rice and beans.

If you make good money but still feel stuck with credit card debt, the issue isn’t discipline. It’s the debt payoff strategies you’ve been taught.

This conversation breaks down how to pay off debt using a system that fits real life, supports consistency, and doesn’t require you to sacrifice everything you enjoy.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• Why don’t you need to be “gazelle intense” to get out of debt?

• How can you track all of your debt in one clear, simple place?

• What are the three main ways to pay off debt and how do you choose the right one?

• Why aren’t minimum payments actually the enemy?

• How do you find your “extra on debt” number without stressing every month?

• How can you act as your own bank so unexpected expenses don’t derail your progress?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’re starting January 2026 feeling motivated but already overwhelmed by the idea of budgeting, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa walk you step by step through how to create a simple January budget that supports your real life instead of fighting it.

This isn’t about cutting everything fun or tracking every transaction. It’s about setting up a budget that helps you pay off debt, build savings, and feel confident with your money without burnout.

You’ll learn how to approach your January budget with clarity, how to plan for expenses without guilt, and how to use an automatic system that keeps your money organized in the background.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• How do you create a January budget that actually feels doable?

• Why do most budgets fall apart after the first few weeks?

• How can you plan for debt payoff and savings at the same time?

• What does a simple budget look like when you make good money?

• How do you stop restarting your budget every single month?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

This is a short and gentle check in for anyone easing back into real life after the holidays.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa pop in with a quick reminder that you don’t need to punish yourself, restrict everything, or start over aggressively just because the holidays are over.

There’s no budgeting homework in this one. No spreadsheets. No to do list. Just a moment to breathe, reset, and remind yourself that how you move forward matters more than how December went.

This episode is here to help you:

• Release post holiday money guilt

• Let go of all or nothing thinking

• Approach your finances with calm instead of pressure

• Reset without shame or urgency

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’re heading into a new year already feeling overwhelmed and behind, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa sit down with Kerri Patt to talk about how to plan a year that feels peaceful, intentional, and aligned with real life, not packed with unrealistic goals.

This conversation goes beyond budgeting tactics and focuses on how time, money, and priorities all work together. You’ll hear how to map out big life moments, plan ahead for what matters most, and use your budget as a support system instead of a source of pressure.

This episode helps you think beyond your next paycheck and start planning a year that reflects your values, your family, and the life you actually want to live.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• How do you plan a year without feeling overwhelmed?

• How can your budget support big life moments instead of reacting to them?

• What does intentional planning look like for real life?

• How do you balance money goals with rest, family, and joy?

• How do you move into a new year with clarity instead of chaos?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’re heading into a new year already feeling overwhelmed and behind, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa sit down with Carrie to talk about how to plan a year that feels peaceful, intentional, and aligned with real life, not packed with unrealistic goals.

This conversation goes beyond budgeting tactics and focuses on how time, money, and priorities all work together. You’ll hear how to map out big life moments, plan ahead for what matters most, and use your budget as a support system instead of a source of pressure.

This episode helps you think beyond your next paycheck and start planning a year that reflects your values, your family, and the life you actually want to live.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• How do you plan a year without feeling overwhelmed?

• How can your budget support big life moments instead of reacting to them?

• What does intentional planning look like for real life?

• How do you balance money goals with rest, family, and joy?

• How do you move into a new year with clarity instead of chaos?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’re trying to stop using credit cards but feel like your income is unpredictable and your budget never quite works, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa sit down with Leah, a self-employed listener navigating variable income, savings overwhelm, and the pressure to rely on credit cards just to stay afloat.

If you make good money but still feel behind, the issue isn’t discipline. It’s not having a budgeting system that can flex with real life and inconsistent paychecks.

This conversation walks through how to create a step-by-step budget that works even when your income changes month to month, how to build a one-month buffer, and how to stop depending on credit cards without feeling restricted or stressed.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• How do you get a paycheck ahead when your income isn’t consistent?

• How do you build savings buckets without feeling overwhelmed?

• Why can paying interest strategically sometimes help you move forward?

• How do you stop using credit cards without falling behind on bills?

• What does a realistic budget look like for self-employed or variable income households?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’re ready to invest but still carrying debt and don’t even feel clear on your budget yet, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa break down one of the most common questions women ask once they start making decent money: should you focus on paying off debt first, or is it time to start investing?

This conversation walks through how budgeting, debt payoff, and investing actually work together, not as competing goals, but as part of one clear system.

If you make good money but feel unsure about what should come first, the issue isn’t discipline. It’s not having a clear order of operations.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• When does it make sense to start investing if you still have debt?

• How do you know if you’re actually ready to invest?

• Why budgeting has to come before both debt payoff and investing

• How debt impacts your ability to invest confidently

• How to make progress without accidentally sabotaging your financial future

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Budget besties, this one’s gonna hit home...literally. We’re joined by the incredible Katy Wells, decluttering expert, podcast host of The Maximize Minimalist, and author of the upcoming book Make Home Your Happy Place. If you’ve ever looked around your house and thought “I cannot deal with this today,” this episode is your reset button. 🙌

We dive deep into:

• The emotional roots of clutter and how it ties to our “stuff story”
• Why traditional decluttering advice falls short (hello, rainbow bins and weekend burnout)
• The powerful connection between your home environment, mental health, and even your spending habits
• Practical ways to declutter without needing a free weekend and a magic wand
• How to involve your partner, kids, and even your shopping triggers in a totally doable way

Katy’s philosophy of holistic decluttering will have you rethinking your relationship with stuff—and how it's all connected to your finances, your energy, and your peace of mind.

✨ Plus, she shares how to set up a “donation station” (game changer), use clutter audits that take less than a minute, and why you don’t have to wait until your kids grow up to feel good in your home.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why clutter is never just about stuff
• How our upbringing, culture, and personal history shape how we manage our homes
• The psychology of “add to cart” and what it has to do with dopamine
• Small daily habits that make a BIG impact (without overhauling your entire weekend)
• Ways clutter and money stress feed into each other and how to stop the spiral

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

Connect with kathy:

Katy’s book Make Home Your Happy Place is available for pre-order now and is packed with everything we talked about (and more). It’s not just a book—it’s your companion through the mess, mindset, and magic of creating a home that works for you. 💛

Links & Resources

Get Katy's Book: Making Home Your Happy Place: A Real-Life Guide to Decluttering Without the Overwhelm

📚 Pre-order Katy’s book + get the bonuses: https://www.katyjoywells.com

🎧 Listen to The Maximized Minimalist podcast

📸 Follow Katy on IG: @katyjoywells

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’ve been listening to the podcast and thinking, “I get it… but how do I actually do this?”, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa break down why the Money Makeover Bootcamp exists, how it’s different from just listening to podcast episodes, and why it’s the fastest way to build real momentum with your money heading into 2026.

This conversation walks through what actually changes when you stop relying on willpower and start using a system that runs in the background of your life.

If you make good money but still feel stuck starting over each month, this episode explains why more information isn’t the answer and what kind of structure actually leads to consistency.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• What the Money Makeover Bootcamp is and who it’s designed for

• Why budgeting systems fail when they rely on motivation instead of structure

• How separating and automating your money reduces stress and decision fatigue

• What makes this bootcamp different from free content or traditional budgeting advice

• How the bootcamp supports you step by step instead of overwhelming you

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

If you’re heading into a new year and want your money to actually support the life you’re building, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa walk through how to set clear, realistic financial goals for 2026 without relying on vague resolutions or unrealistic motivation.

This conversation focuses on aligning your budget, savings, and spending decisions with what actually matters to you so your money works in real life, not just on paper.

If you make good money but still feel unsure whether your financial choices are moving you forward, the issue isn’t discipline. It’s having a plan that connects your goals to your day-to-day money decisions.

In this episode, we answer questions like:

• How do you set financial goals that are realistic and flexible?

• What’s the difference between short-term, mid-term, and long-term money goals?

• How do you tie your budget to your priorities instead of generic advice?

• How can you plan for big life goals without feeling overwhelmed?

• What does intentional money planning actually look like in real life?

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Check out Carrie's Podcast!

We’re bringing back one of our all-time favorite convos with our good friend and Diet Disruptor queen, Carrie Lupoli! If you missed it the first time (or need a refresh), get ready for one seriously powerful conversation on how your financial health and physical health go hand-in-hand.

Carrie has called us her besties for years (aw 🥹), and in this re-air, we finally sat down with her on the mic to talk about how getting your money in check can actually transform your mental clarity, stress levels, and even your relationship with food.

👯‍♀️ What We Chat About:

1. The surprising connection between financial stress and health struggles
2. Why “not knowing what you don’t know” is not your fault—and how to unlearn it
3. How Carrie and her husband completely shifted their money mindset and now have money left at the end of the month 🙌
4. What it means to budget like a grown-up without giving up brunch, beauty, or bacon 🍳
5. Why credit card “points” aren’t doing you any favors (sorry, not sorry 😅)
6. A simple, automated budgeting system that makes life easier—yes, automagically 🪄
7. Teaching your kids financial confidence early (Carrie’s 20-year-old is thriving!)

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Check out Office Hours!

Guess who’s back on the podcast? Our incredible coach Michelle is here, and she’s bringing the behind-the-scenes scoop from office hours — aka where the magic happens every single week.

Whether you’ve joined us live or you’re wondering what office hours are all about, this episode breaks down the real questions people are asking (and the “aha” moments they’re walking away with).

From paycheck planning to deciding between savings buckets and spending accounts, this convo is full of clarity, encouragement, and real-life strategy.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Schedule an Annual Planning Session.

Budget besties, 2026 is almost here—but don’t skip the most important step: looking back at your 2025 money moves. 👀💸

In this episode, we’re walking you through a quick + powerful Year-in-Review so you can:

• Actually see where your money went
• Celebrate how far you've come (yes, even if it doesn’t feel like it)
• Spot what needs adjusting before you set 2026 goals

We’re talking debt payoff, savings buckets, spending patterns, life changes—and how to use that info to feel way more confident going into the new year.

✨ Grab your free checklist: budgetbesties.com/yearinreview

✨ Simplified Budget System owners — book your one-time planning session at budgetbesties.com/annualplanning

✨ Bootcamp is coming Dec 29th: budgetbesties.com/bootcamp

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

You know what time it is... it's DECEMBER BUDGET TIME! 🎁 And if you're like us, you're probably already bracing for the whirlwind of holidays, parties, gifts, and those sneaky little expenses that come outta nowhere (we see you, secret Santa and gymnastics party #3).

In this episode, we walk you step-by-step through how to build your December budget before the chaos takes over—because clarity now means peace later.

Here’s what we’re diving into:

✅ Closing out November

Before we do anything for December, we gotta see how November wrapped up. That means checking bills, income changes, surprise spending, and making sure your budget reflects what actually happened, not just what you planned.

✅ Setting Up December’s Budget

We start fresh—but not really! If you're using our system, it all auto-fills based on last month, so you’re not building from scratch. We show you how to plug in your income, including paychecks, side hustles, garage sales—you name it. Every dollar coming in matters.

✅ Listing Your Debt Minimums

No skipping this step. We’re laying out all those minimum payments so you can see exactly how much debt is costing you monthly. Why? Because awareness = power. And some of y’all are one payoff away from a BIG monthly win!

✅ Mapping Out Your Bills

We walk you through how to list every bill with a due date—from the mortgage and electric to those pesky subscriptions that add up fast. (Looking at you, 7 streaming services.)

✅ Budgeting for Spending—Yes, Real Life Spending

Gas. Groceries. Fun. Kid stuff. Personal spending. We break down how we use separate checking accounts for each so you know what’s safe to spend—no tracking needed. 🙌

✅ Planning for the Extras This Month

December’s got layers: holiday travel, birthdays, class parties, random gift exchanges. We show you where to plug in those “extras” so they don’t sneak-attack your budget.

✅ Stacking Your Savings Buckets

Whether it’s for Christmas 2026 or your annual HOA fee, those savings buckets are key to staying out of debt for good. We give you the rundown on how our clients are funding theirs, even in a busy season.

✅ Using Leftover Money With Intention

Once everything’s plugged in, what’s left? That’s the magic. Whether it’s extra debt payments or beefing up your savings, we show you how to finish your budget strong—without guessing.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Hey, budget besties! 🙌

This week, we're bringing you straight into the coaching room—real client convos, real financial struggles, and real solutions that you can take and use TODAY.

We’re covering two big topics:

Whether you’re team “chores-for-cash” or you’re just trying to give your teen lunch money without handing over your debit card—this one’s for you.

We break down:

• Why separate kid accounts are a game changer
• How to start small with a simple debit card setup (no fancy apps needed!)
• What to do if your kids have jobs, commute siblings, or help around the house
• How this ONE system builds financial literacy, teaches responsibility, and saves you from being the Bank of Mom & Dad

Bottom line? This is less about the money and more about the life skills you’re handing your kids. And you don’t need some overpriced app to do it. You’ve got this.

We’re also diving deep into something that comes up all the time in our coaching sessions: trust around money in relationships.

Shana shares a powerful story from a couple who had been together for nearly 20 years but still hadn’t fully merged their finances. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t because of anything they did to each other—it was childhood money trauma they never unpacked.

We talk about:

• What might really be behind your hesitation to combine finances
• Why getting financially naked might be the real intimacy block 😬
• How to have honest conversations about past mistakes, guilt, and money baggage
• The path forward when there’s a history of mistrust—and how healing IS possible

If you’re married (or partnered) and feel like you’re in your own financial lane, this episode will hit home.

Whether you're teaching your teens to track their balances or working through decades of financial “stuff” with your partner, just know—we’re in this with you.

You’re not behind.

You’re not the only one.

And you’re definitely not alone.

🧡 We're cheering you on every step of the way.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Let’s clear the air: an emergency fund is NOT a catch-all for life’s expenses. Most of what wrecks your budget month to month? Not true emergencies — just unexpected-but-actually-expected stuff like car repairs, insurance renewals, and holiday madness.

In this episode, we’re breaking down:

1. The real difference between an emergency fund and savings buckets
2. Why saving $1,000 and calling it a day isn’t the move
3. What to do before paying off debt
4. The 6 steps we walk our clients through (and why this order makes your budget work better)
5. Why you’re always draining your savings account without realizing it

🎯 We’ll also chat about how to:

1. Figure out how much you need in your mini emergency fund
2. Brainstorm savings buckets that make sense for your real life
3. Avoid the “oops, I forgot about that bill” panic
4. Finally create a financial plan that’s flexible, clear, and works for you

Plus: We share details on our upcoming Budget Bootcamp starting December 29th! (Don’t worry — no homework now, just get your name on the list.)

This episode is your budget reset button — whether you’re just starting or you’ve been winging it and wondering why it’s not working.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Budget besties, whew — grab your tissues and your coffee. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mackenzie, a wife, mama of two, and full-time working powerhouse navigating a major life pivot after her husband lost his job. Spoiler: this conversation is about so much more than money.

From a job loss to reworking their budget and leaning into a new side hustle, Mackenzie walks us through the real life stuff — the stress, the faith, and the tough decisions that so many of us face but don’t always talk about.

We dig into:

💸 What to do when your income suddenly drops

🏡 Why selling your house might not be the answer

🧮 How to actually figure out how long your savings can last

❤️ The emotional weight of being the breadwinner... and choosing not to be anymore

💡 Why pursuing purpose can still be part of your financial plan

🙌 And the reminder we all need: THIS is why we budget — so we’re prepared when life hits

Mackenzie’s vulnerability, grit, and heart are what this community is all about. If you’ve ever felt like you're holding everything together with duct tape and coffee, this one’s for you.

Today, we’re bringing you another round of real-life stories and real-life lessons straight from our private coaching sessions. Because if our clients are dealing with it… chances are you are too.

Our goal? To help you avoid the same mistakes, feel less alone, and walk away with practical wins you can use today in your budget.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Today, we’re bringing you another round of real-life stories and real-life lessons straight from our private coaching sessions. Because if our clients are dealing with it… chances are you are too.

Our goal? To help you avoid the same mistakes, feel less alone, and walk away with practical wins you can use today in your budget.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

In this replay, we’re taking you back to a powerful holiday episode where we teamed up with the amazing Anna from the It's About Time Podcast! If Christmas tends to sneak up on you (and your wallet), this one’s a must-listen. We're sharing our best-kept secrets for cash flowing Christmas, ditching the credit cards, and yes—still being bougie on a budget 🎁✨

We break down:

1. Why you don’t have a spending problem—you just need to get organized
2. How our grandparents had 5-line-item budgets, and now we’re dealing with 85 tabs open in our brains 🤯
3. Why relying on credit cards for Christmas is a recipe for a holiday hangover
4. How to start being your own bank 💰 (bye-bye, points that don't pay)
5. Why budgeting isn’t restrictive—it’s just a plan for your priorities
6. The 5-column budget system we teach that makes things click
7. How to budget for Christmas without giving up what you love (pumpkin spice included ☕)
8. What to include in your holiday budget (spoiler: it’s more than just gifts)
9. How to loop in your kids without the money stress or guilt
10. Why Christmas can (and should!) be generous and planned

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

In today’s episode of Financial Coaching for Women, we sit down with Ashley—newly married, newly budgeting, and ready to take control of her family’s finances. Just two months into their budgeting journey, Ashley and her husband are working hard to live on their salaries alone so they can put commission checks toward debt payoff and long-term goals. But with unexpected expenses, consolidated loans, and a busy family life, staying on track isn’t always easy.

Together, we walk through her real numbers, real questions, and real challenges. If you're early in your budgeting journey—or trying to get back on track—you’ll feel right at home in this conversation.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Today, we’re bringing you real stories and lessons straight from our private coaching sessions — because if our clients are dealing with it, chances are you are too. From credit card points to refinancing decisions, we’re breaking down what’s really happening behind the numbers so you can avoid the same mistakes, feel less alone, and walk away with some quick wins for your budget.

You’ll hear about a client who thought credit card points were the key to “winning” with money (spoiler: they weren’t), how another family is tackling a 7% mortgage the smart way, and why simple awareness can transform everything about how you spend, save, and plan.

This episode is full of aha moments, real talk, and encouragement for anyone ready to move from surviving to thriving. 💪

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

DIY Debt Relief Guide

If you've ever felt tempted to call one of those "we'll fix your debt for you" companies, this episode is for you. 💸

We're pulling back the curtain on debt consolidation, settlement, and relief companies, and explaining how their promises can actually hurt your credit, delay progress, and drain your savings. Instead, we'll show you how to DIY your own debt relief plan — without paying someone else to do what you can do (better!) yourself.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why debt relief companies often make things worse, not better
• How debt consolidation and settlement actually work (and the hidden costs)
• How to organize your debt and negotiate with creditors yourself
• Building a DIY debt payoff system that puts you in control

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy.

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

College Ready with Shellee Howard

Y’all… this one is a must-listen if you’ve got high schoolers (or even middle schoolers 👀) under your roof. We sat down with college admissions expert Shellee Howard, and wow — she dropped SO many gems on how to help your kids go to college without taking on student loan debt. And yes, even if you’re not “low income.” There is strategy. There is money. And you’re probably missing it because you don’t know what you don’t know. Until now.

🎙 Here’s what we cover inside this episode:

• The biggest misconceptions parents have about college admissions (you’ve probably thought at least one!)
• Why relying on your high school counselor to help with college planning could cost you big time 💸
• The three buckets of money (merit, independent scholarships & need-based aid) and how to tap into them
• What really makes a student stand out on applications
• Why community service is the golden ticket — and how to help your kid find their unique lane 🎯
• The ROI mindset shift that’ll change how you and your kids pick a school
• Genius email tips (parents, your teen will miss deadlines… unless you do this ✅)

💬 Real talk moments we loved:

• “If you’re letting your teen pick their college list based on football teams or campus colors...we gotta talk.”
• “You’re not just sending them to college — you’re making a six-figure decision. So let’s treat it like one.”
• “Merit aid = they want you. So your kid better know how to bring it.”

👀 Favorite quote:

“There is SO much money out there. It’s not about being poor. It’s about knowing where to find it — and how to position your child as an asset to the school.”

📝 Free resources Shellee shared in this episode:

• College Ready Plan info: https://collegereadyplan.info (she’s got a hidden spot just for our listeners 😉)
• Empower Education World: A student-led nonprofit offering service hours + real impact https://empowereducationworld.org

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

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Michelle is back! 🎉 In this episode, we’re catching up with our beloved office hours coach, Michelle, to celebrate client wins, lessons learned, and the powerful mindset shifts happening inside our Budget Besties community.

From one client paying off $65,000 in less than a year to couples learning how to work as a team on their finances, this conversation is full of encouragement and practical takeaways. Michelle shares stories from her weekly office hours — where members bring their real budgets, ask real questions, and walk away with real results.

Whether you’re struggling to get your spouse on board, trying to simplify your money system, or just need some hope that your effort is paying off — this episode is for you. 💪

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

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Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Most people think budgeting means cutting back and saying “no” to everything fun — but we’re here to tell you it’s actually about saying yes! Yes to dinner out. Yes to vacations. Yes to the things you love — but with cash in hand and zero stress.

In this episode, we wrap up the Budget Besties Method with Step 8: Be Bougie on a Budget. You’ll hear how real clients and friends are living their best lives — from country clubs and horses to golf memberships and healthy food — all while sticking to their budgets. Because “bougie” looks different for everyone, and it’s not about how much you spend; it’s about spending with intention.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

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Budget besties, they're baaaack! Erin and Sarah return to the mic to share how their family is navigating yet another government shutdown — this time with way more peace of mind, way less panic, and (spoiler alert) a fully funded emergency fund. 🙌🏽

In this real and super timely episode, we dive into:

• What it’s really like to lose 50% of your household income overnight
• How the Simplified Budget System helped them stay calm (even when things got tight)
• The power of being your own bank — and avoiding credit card debt
• Strategic cuts (bye, vitamins 👋) + non-negotiables (hello, gymnastics 🤸‍♀️)
• How Sarah’s side hustle is showing up big time right now
• And how they’re getting their girls involved in budgeting without guilt or shame

If you’re in the thick of financial uncertainty — whether it's a shutdown, job loss, or just a tight season — Erin and Sarah’s story is your reminder that there is a way through it with clarity, connection, and cash flow that actually makes sense.

You’ll also hear:

• What gets paused (subscriptions), what stays (horse food 🐴), and what gets tabled (Erin’s dream gun purchase)
• Why getting on the same page with your partner is everything
• How budgeting before the emergency hit changed everything about how they’re managing it now

Budgeting doesn't solve everything. But it does give you choices. And these two are living proof. 🫶🏽

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

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Vanessa and Shana walk you step-by-step through wrapping up October and setting up your budget for the new month — from matching your numbers to planning for Thanksgiving, travel volleyball, and yes… even surprise bills.

Because guess what? You don’t have to do your budget alone. We’ve got you. ❤️

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

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Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Here’s why most budgets fail: they’re manual. Every week, you’re trying to remember what’s due, what’s left, and what you were supposed to transfer. The more hands-on your budget is, the more likely you’ll skip a step, make a mistake, or just run out of time.

But what if your budget could run automagically? ✨

In this laugh-out-loud episode, Shayna and Vanessa show you how to set up your bank so it becomes your personal assistant — moving money to the right place at the right time without you lifting a finger.

With the help of one of the funniest metaphors we’ve ever had (spoiler: it involves curling irons and teenage daughters 😅), the Besties explain why the old way of budgeting is like burning your hair in the ‘90s — and how automation makes your money come to life “Be Our Guest”-style.

You’ll walk away knowing exactly how to make your bills, savings, and spending accounts run themselves… so your budget finally works while you go live your life.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

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Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Divorce is one of the most emotionally and financially challenging transitions you can go through — but it doesn’t have to mean financial chaos.

In this episode of Financial Coaching for Women, Shana and Vanessa sit down with Linda, a listener who’s in the middle of an amicable divorce but still navigating shared accounts, joint debts, and a home they co-own.

Together, they walk through how to start separating finances, set up a simple money system, and communicate effectively with a spouse during such a sensitive season. You’ll hear practical steps for setting boundaries, tracking shared bills, and creating financial independence — even before the divorce is finalized.

If you’re trying to move forward financially while everything feels messy, this episode will give you both clarity and confidence. 💪

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

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Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Hey, Budget Besties! 👋

Today, we’re reairing one of our favorite conversations — a guest appearance we did with our good friend Jesse Mershon, host of the Bold Faith Moves podcast. This was the very first time her community talked about budgeting on her show — and we went all in on making the “B word” less scary, more joyful, and a whole lot more empowering. 💪✨

In this episode, we share our story of friendship and faith, how we both became debt-free, and the real-life budgeting tips that changed everything. You’ll learn how to simplify your money, stop feeling overwhelmed, and still enjoy the life God’s blessed you with — yes, even if you love Target runs and pumpkin spice lattes. ☕💸

• 💳 The one simple bank account hack that will change your financial life
• 🏦 Why separating bills and spending money brings instant clarity and peace
• 💁‍♀️ How to be “bougie on a budget” — and still hit your money goals
• 🔁 How to automate your money so it practically runs itself
• 🙌 Why budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom and stewardship
• 💖 The faith-filled mindset shift that turns guilt and shame into peace and purpose

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

You make way too much money to be in this much debt — and we say that with love. ❤️

If you’re swiping your credit card for groceries, juggling balances between cards, and convincing yourself it’s worth it “for the points,” this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the truth about debt — how it keeps you stuck in the past — and showing you what it really means to fund your future instead.

Today, we’re talking about why your credit card is not your budget, what it looks like to be your own bank, and the small but powerful steps that help you stop relying on debt once and for all.

• 💳 Why using credit cards (even if you pay them off every month) keeps you one month behind
• 🏦 How to be your own bank and stop borrowing from your future
• 💡 Why “earning points” is not the same as earning interest — and how to actually win with your money
• 💬 The simple mindset shift that breaks the habit of relying on credit
• 💰 Practical steps to remove credit cards from your daily spending — and finally use your own money
• 📘 How our DIY Debt Relief Workbook can help you talk to creditors, negotiate balances, and take control

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Sign Up For The Challenge Now

Festive season is coming in hot—and you don’t need to white-knuckle it. In this bonus chat with time management coach Anna Dearmon Kornick, we talk about setting a holiday vision, building simple guardrails for both time and money, and saying “yes” to what matters (and no to the rest). Plus: details on the Take Back Your Time Challenge: Stress-Free Holiday Edition—and our VIP workshop, Bougie on a Budget: How to Cash-Flow Christmas (No Holiday Hangover).

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

In this heartfelt episode of Financial Coaching for Women, we’re joined by Kayden — a former coaching client whose story will remind you that it’s never too late to turn financial frustration into freedom.

Kayden and her husband went from constant miscommunication and missed payments to budgeting as a team, buying a home, and cash-flowing their life — even after a massive income cut. Her journey shows that progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence, communication, and trusting the process.

If you’ve ever felt like you “make good money but have nothing to show for it,” this one’s for you.

• 💡 How Kayden went from “making good money with nothing to show for it” to paying every bill on time
• 🏠 How she and her husband bought a house while learning to budget together
• 💬 The mindset shifts that helped her improve communication with her spouse — even when he wasn’t in coaching
• 💳 How she tackled confusing student loans, renegotiated payoffs, and started cash-flowing expenses
• 🪣 Why starting small with savings buckets and guilt-free spending changed everything
• 📉 What to do when your income gets cut in half (and how to rebuild without panic)
• 🙌 The power of accountability, persistence, and coaching — even when life gets messy

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Today we’re bringing you real-life stories and real lessons straight from our private coaching sessions. If our clients are struggling with it, chances are you are too. We’re breaking down the mistakes we see most often, how to fix them, and how to set yourself up for easy, stress-free money wins.

In this episode, we’re talking about two of the biggest budget busters we see:

1️⃣ Overcomplicating your money system with third-party apps like PayPal and Apple Pay.

2️⃣ Losing track of your true numbers — like your real minimum payments — and making your budget harder than it needs to be.

These stories will help you see how small tweaks can completely change how confident and in control you feel with your money.

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Most people say their budgets get blown by “surprise” expenses — but let’s be real: Christmas isn’t a surprise. New tires? Not a surprise. Your dog’s annual vet visit? Definitely not a surprise. These are expected expenses that just don’t happen every month.

In this episode, we’re tackling how to stop the rollercoaster of “I was fine last month, now I’m swiping the credit card.” The solution? Savings buckets. When you create separate savings accounts for predictable but irregular expenses, you save today to avoid borrowing tomorrow.

• Why most “surprise” expenses aren’t really surprises
• How savings buckets can bring stability to your monthly budget
• The exact steps to set up your own buckets
• Real-life stories from clients who’ve transformed their finances using this method

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Get Our Simplified Budget System!

Quick Friday pop-in! If you make good money but have nothing to show for it, we walk through our simple, one-page budget system that actually matches how you live. You’ll learn the 5 money categories, how a separate Bills Account puts payments on autopilot, why separate spending cards end the guilt/fights, and how named savings buckets plus a clear debt plan tell you exactly what to do each payday—no expense logging required. Real client wins, practical steps, and a calmer way to pay bills, kill debt, and still enjoy life. 💸✨

00:00 – Introduction: Why You Need a Budget System for Financial Success

00:23 – Common Budgeting Mistakes: Why Tracking Expenses Isn’t Enough

01:07 – The Overwhelm of Money Management and How to Fix It

01:29 – The Five Simple Budget Categories for Real-Life Spending

02:43 – How Our Editable Budget System Works (and Why It’s Different)

04:11 – Powerful Tools: Savings Tracker, Debt Payoff, and Asset Management

05:38 – Real User Testimonials: Transforming Finances with Our Budget System

07:18 – The Power of Knowing Your Numbers: Net Worth, Debt, and Savings

08:34 – Automating Your Bills and Achieving Financial Organization

10:03 – Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Money with the Best Budget System

Client Wins We Read On Air

• Tammy: “6 months in—buckets growing, bills dropping, husband’s on board.”

• Rebecca: “Finally seeing my money clearly. Planned debt payoff + categorized savings = game changer.”

• Barbara: “Paid off 7 cards. Use cash for almost everything. No more checking the account before buying gas.”

• Lindsay: “Less stress. No guilt. Separate spending accounts = harmony.”

• Jess: “Net worth rising is my new favorite hobby.”

• Kathleen: “Went from $1,000 over each month to finally breaking the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.”

• Lori: “Autopaid bills from a designated account = zero stress.”

• Amanda: “Bird’s-eye month + Paycheck Plan replaced my old tracker. So much clearer.”

• Melissa: “It does the math. I actually have more money than I thought.”

• Sheena & Becky: “Whole-picture clarity → car paid off, long-term goals funded.”

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Ever feel like your work life and home budget are in a tug-of-war? Same, bestie — and you’re not alone. This week, we sat down with Stephanie, a law professor who’s been making huge moves with her money using our budget system. But like many of us, she hit a snag when it came to business travel.

Stephanie’s story is a masterclass in navigating:

• Work reimbursements that take months
• Whether credit cards are ever worth it (spoiler: rarely, but sometimes!)
• How to separate personal and professional expenses without losing your mind (or your receipts)
• Setting up a system that actually works — especially when math isn’t your thing

We cover:

✔️ Pre-funding business trips

✔️ Why a separate bank account is a game-changer

✔️ How to track expenses without burning out

✔️ What to do about credit card perks like car rental insurance or international fees

✔️ And why setting a weekly “receipt party” on your calendar might be your new best friend

Stephanie also shares how budgeting is now a whole family thing — from planning for Christmas (without the chaos) to giving her kids their own savings accounts (and real-time money lessons 💪).

Whether you're a working parent, frequent traveler, or just tired of the budget rollercoaster — this episode is packed with smart, doable strategies to help you stay on track and feel in control.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy

Curious? Start Here for Free!

Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!

Today’s episode is ripped straight from real coaching convos with our clients — because if they’re dealing with it, chances are you are too. We’re talking about a common money trap that shows up in more budgets than you’d think: whole life insurance.

Spoiler alert: It’s not a good investment.

Not when you’re paying hundreds a month, not seeing any return, and living outside your means just to keep it going.

We break down:

• Why whole life insurance is rarely worth it (especially when your budget is tight)
• The difference between whole life and term life insurance
• What to do if you’ve already been paying into a whole life policy
• How to reorder your financial steps so you can actually build wealth (on your own terms)

We’re all about helping you avoid costly mistakes, feel seen, and walk away with quick wins. So whether you're paying $473/month into a policy that’s draining you or wondering if your “life insurance” line item is doing anything for you — this one's for you.

Remember: we want you to save, invest, and protect your family on purpose — and in the right order. Let’s get that money back in your budget and get you back in control.

Let’s Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:

1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook

2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall

3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coaching

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.

Click here to view our privacy policy. https://budgetbesties.com/privacy