rich & REGULAR with Kiersten and Julien Saunders

Isn’t it funny how we’ll side-eye Netflix over a $2 price increase, but somehow let a credit card quietly charge us $500, $700, even $895 a year without asking nearly as many questions? This episode is about why we give those increases so much more grace, and whether we should. Once you’ve convinced yourself you’re the kind of person who knows how to “maximize the benefits,” the annual fee can start feeling less like spending and more like proof that you’re good at money. So this week, we’re ...

Groceries are expensive, eating out is expensive, and somehow the advice for spending less on food is still “make a list.” Meanwhile, feeding yourself has gotten weirdly strategic these days. Between higher prices, smaller packages, busy schedules, food waste, and recalls, the smartest grocery strategy is simply getting better at buying for the life you actually live. So in this episode, we’re sharing 5 questions to ask before you even head to the grocery store so you can spend less, waste le...

Part 1 was Julien’s version of what happened, this is the part where I get to talk lol. Because apparently, one of the side effects of a family emergency is finding out exactly what you disagree about when everybody’s tired, somebody’s in pain, and your normal division of labor has completely fallen apart. The injury may have been his, but the emergency affected all 3 of us, which meant we all had to adjust…and that’s where the conflict started. So instead of giving you a neat list of l...

We’re back! We’ve been gone for months, and a lot of you have asked where we’ve been. The answer starts with a freak accident at Beau’s baseball practice, but that’s only the beginning. What followed was surgery, months without being able to walk, a crash course in pain management, caregiving, muscle loss, mental health, and learning the limits of “for better or worse.” Julien starts with his side of the story here. Kiersten joins him in Part 2. In this solo episode, he shar...

This week, we’re talking about what’s really going on in the AI layoff era, and why the way you interpret that moment matters almost as much as the layoff itself. If all you hear is “a robot replaced me,” it’s easy to spiral, panic pivot, and start solving the wrong problem. But if you know how to read the room, you can make smarter decisions about your career, your money, and where to go from here. Losing a job is already disruptive enough. The last thing you need is to turn it i...

We spent a week talking to hundreds of high school seniors about money, and they gave us more hope than we expected. Underneath the stereotypes about “kids these days,” we found a generation that already understands more than adults give them credit for, while still being dangerously underprepared for some of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. So this week, we’re talking about what stood out after speaking to 400+ students across 5 high schools in the Chicago area and what parent...

There’s a casino in everybody’s pocket now, and it’s wearing a jersey. This week’s episode is about sports gambling, why it’s exploding right now, and the data that should make you pause before you normalize it in your house, your group chat, or your relationship. We promise this isn’t an anti-fun sermon, it’s a reality check. If you’re someone who sports bets but has real limits in place…tell us what’s working. And if you’ve seen this start “small” and turn into something bigger in your life...

Most money advice for students is either condescending or delusional, and this episode is neither. This one is for the students…and for the parents, aunties, mentors, and big cousins trying to help without lecturing. Today I’m joined by Dr. Paris Woods, bestselling author of The Black Girl’s Guide to Financial Freedom and the new Student’s Guide to Financial Freedom. We talk about what she saw growing up in St. Louis, the “education is the ticket” promise, and why getting out of poverty...

This week, we’re joined by Brenton Harrison, founder of New Money New Problems. Brenton is a financial advisor who works with first- and second-generation high earners. We’re talking about how to tell the difference between quality financial advice and misinformation/scammy advice, making sense of what you hear online, and why not all “good advice” is good for YOU. And because we live in the real world where creators and advisors both exist, we get into the relationship between financi...

There are two sentences that can ruin a perfectly normal evening – “We need to talk”, and its evil twin, “We need to talk about money.” Even if your relationship is good, that phrasing makes it feel like somebody’s about to get graded. Even when things are fine, nobody wants to be the person who turns a decent Tuesday night into a full relationship audit. So this week, we’re introducing a better way: small doors. These are quick, low-stakes, real-life openings that normalize money talk ...

This week we’re talking to Rahkim Sabree, author, financial trauma educator, and the person who basically put “financial trauma” on the map for a lot of the internet. His work connects money behaviors to nervous system responses, family systems, and broader cultural and structural realities. His book, Overcoming Financial Trauma, and his whole approach are research-heavy, emotionally honest, and built to last. Julien starts this conversation by admitting something most people don’t say out lo...

Life is life-ing. Prices are up, surprise expenses are regular, and your “simple” money goal keeps turning into a weekly argument with yourself (or your partner). In this episode, we talk about why so many people are either going full finance drill sergeant in 2026, or avoiding goals completely. We break down what financial discipline actually looks like when your life changes mid-month, and how to build goals that bend instead of break so you can keep moving forward without the mental ...

There’s nothing like a surprise utility bill to humble your whole household. If you’ve ever stared at a bill wondering ‘how?!’ well, let’s talk about it. This week on the rich & REGULAR podcast, we're breaking down emotional manipulation, confusing rate plans, and overlooked hacks that are costing you real money on your gas, electric, and water bills. This isn’t about living in the dark or taking cold showers. It’s about paying attention, asking better questions, and taking back con...

When life feels loud, getting rid of stuff can feel like relief. But if the stuff keeps coming back, the real issue is usually what the purchases were trying to solve in the first place. ​​So this is an episode about what to ask yourself before you fill the donation bags. We’re talking about materialism as a pattern and what happens when your things stop just being “things”. Kiersten gets personal about why decluttering has always worked for her and why she finally realized it was only ...

Today’s episode is brought to you by Nutre Meals, a practical solution for eating better at home when you don’t have time, energy, or interest in cooking every night. The meals come fully prepared, fresh, and ready to heat in minutes. We tried them and were honestly impressed by the flavor, portions, and how easy it was to work them into a real week. If dinner feels like one more thing on your list, Nutre Meals can take it off. Get 40% off your first order with code RICH40. 👉 Star...

This is our annual “what to expect in the new year” episode, and our hot take is “affordability” is about to be the most overused, and least understood, word of 2026. You’re going to hear it everywhere, and this week, we’re explaining why that should make you a little nervous. We break down why affordability is becoming the new catch-all word for economic stress, how it’s being used to sell certainty in an unstable system, and why more people are about to find themselves saying, “I thou...

Kiersten here. This week’s episode is a solo one, and it’s inspired by a book I just finished called The Art of Spending Money by Morgan Housel. If you’re familiar with The Psychology of Money, you already know Morgan’s style: short chapters, clean sentences, and big ideas. This new book is about spending but not the kind most people are struggling with. In this episode, I unpack: Who this book is really forTwo core takeaways that stuck: the psychology of contrast and the sustainability...

In a year full of work drama and career pivots, our most eye-opening lessons came from the places no one talks about on LinkedIn. Somewhere between the PTA meetings, school drop-offs, HOA group texts, and community events, we kept bumping into reminders that real work doesn’t always pay. And that’s kind of the point. This week, we’re unpacking what happened when we leaned all the way into volunteering and brought our professional skills to the party. Because chances are, you’re more needed th...

Kiersten here. It’s just me this week. It’s been two years since my ADHD diagnosis, and in that time I’ve learned a lot. In this episode, I’m sitting down solo to unpack what this label actually changed, what it didn’t, and what I’ve had to unlearn about focus, money, and identity along the way. I’m revisiting the journey to speak directly to anyone navigating their own diagnosis (or the suspicion of one), especially while trying to manage money, relationships, and modern life. If you ever wo...

We’re 30+ days into a government shutdown, SNAP benefits are disappearing, layoffs are ongoing, and a catastrophic storm just hit Jamaica. But beyond the headlines, people are privately struggling with job loss, evictions, food insecurity, and the mental toll of trying to “stay positive” when everything feels urgent. In this week’s episode, we talk about how to be resourceful in the real, messy, "make-it-through-the-week" kind of way. Whether you're giving help or in need of it, this episode ...

It’s that time again…open enrollment season. And while we know this topic doesn’t get anyone out of bed in the morning, it SHOULD. Because buried in that HR email you ignored is a decision that could cost or save you thousands. This week, we’re breaking down why so many people just auto-renew last year’s health plan, what rising premiums in 2026 actually mean for your wallet, and how AI can help you stop making five-figure decisions based on casual conversations with your coworkers. We talk a...

We recently teamed up with Consumer Reports on an eye-opening project that made us rethink how we evaluate, purchase, and engage with our homeowners insurance policy. This week’s episode is about what we learned. Here’s what we unpack: Why homeowners insurance is way more confusing and critical than we thoughtWhat’s driving double-digit rate hikes (even if you’ve never filed a claim)How your dog, HOA, or even local crime rates affect your premiumsOne of the most overlooked parts of your polic...

Food prices are up (again), takeout is 4x more expensive than eating at home, and yet somehow..dinner still ends up on your doorstep. That’s exactly why we created Eat Better, a new video series that makes home cooking feel doable, even if you're not “a cooking person.” In this episode, we're breaking down why so many people aren’t cooking at home, and what it really takes to change that. Julien talks about how 20+ years of cooking at home and 7 years as a pro chef shaped our latest project, ...

If talking about credit makes you anxious, confused, or just flat-out annoyed… you're not alone. In this episode, we break down the truth about credit scores and reports: what they are, how they work, the most common myths people believe, and why it’s time we stop treating credit like a moral compass. Whether you’re building credit for the first time, trying to bounce back from a rough patch, or just wondering why your score dipped after doing the “right” thing - we got you. We cover: The big...

This episode is sponsored by NordProtect. To save up to 59% on annual plans for NordProtect visit https://nordprotect.com/richandregular and use code RICHANDREGULAR This week, we’re breaking down three money identities we’ve seen over and over again. None of these are “good” or “bad,” they’re more like energies, instincts, patterns we’ve all lived at some point. And just like a horoscope, you might recognize yourself in all of them. We’ll walk you through a quick quiz so you can find out wher...

If budgets are supposed to keep us on track, why do so many of them make us feel stuck instead? In this episode, we talk about why the most common advice fails and what actually works when life keeps changing. The problem with budgets isn’t discipline, it’s design. Most advice assumes your income, expenses, and goals stay the same forever. Ours doesn’t, and neither should yours. We get into: Why the “stick to your budget no matter what” mantra sets you up to failHow to spot seasonal spending ...

What if retirement wasn’t a one-time event at the end of a long career, but a rhythm you could build into your life right now? In this episode, we're joined by the brilliant Jillian Johnsrud, whose new book Retire Often flips the script on traditional retirement. Instead of waiting 40 years to enjoy life, Jillian makes the case for taking intentional mini-retirements throughout your career by taking one month off every couple of years….not to escape your life, but to design it. Jillian drops ...

This week we’re celebrating our 10 year anniversary by sharing some lessons about money, partnership, and staying excited about the long game. 10 years of marriage isn’t just a milestone, it’s a record of every choice you made together, from buying a house to splitting a check to deciding who’s unloading the dishwasher. Some of those choices aged well. Others? Let’s just say they came with late fees. In this episode, we get into: What to do when “my idea” needs “our money,” and how to bring a...

Some seasons of life are defined by money, and not in a good way. Those years test your patience, your relationships, and your identity. But they can become turning points and leave lessons that last long after the struggle is over. This week, we're talking about the kind of year that stretches everything. When progress feels invisible and the usual advice doesn’t cut it, it’s easy to lose momentum or give up entirely. We’ve been there, and in this episode, we’re sharing what helped us stay f...

Most people only invest for retirement through their employer plan, which means if that plan is weak, your future could be too. But how do you actually know if it’s bad, or if you just don’t understand it yet? In this episode, we break down the three biggest signs your employer plan might be holding you back, and what to do about it. We’ll get into: Why some 401(k) fund menus feel like a restaurant with no good options (and how to find the hidden gems)What “the match” really means, why it’s n...

Groceries in 2025? Whew. Let’s just say…it ain’t pretty. Prices are still climbing, shrinkflation is in full effect, and Americans are still wasting almost 40% of the food we buy. Add tariffs and supply chain pressures on top, and it feels like we’re paying more, getting less, and throwing too much of it away. The good news is you don’t have to stay stuck in the cycle. In this episode, we’re breaking down 4 real-world strategies to fight back against rising grocery bills without sacrificing f...

👉 Catch us co-hosting the Merging into Life podcast with AAA Northeast! The first 2 episodes are live now, and you can listen on Apple Podcasts or here 👈 This week we’re pulling the curtain back on a topic that rarely gets talked about honestly, whether private school is actually affordable… even if you can technically write the check. We’re not here to shame anyone’s choices. But if you’ve ever wondered whether that tuition bill is still worth it, or if you’ve been secretly thinking about pu...

We’ve been managing money together for almost a decade, and we’re still learning how to do it better. This episode is part relationship therapy, part financial strategy, and all the things we wish more couples talked about out loud. We’re talking about what it really takes to handle money together in a way that works for both people. Because most couples don’t need to watch each other’s every move, they just need to feel confident that they’re on the same page, making good decisions, and able...

A lot of people are feeling financially squeezed right now, and they’re blaming everything except their car. Transportation is one of the top three household expenses. Between longer loans, higher interest rates, pricier insurance, and cars that lose value faster than ever, owning a car has gotten way more expensive in the last few years. And yet most of us still treat the car note like it’s untouchable…like it just is what it is. In this episode, we break down what’s really changed abo...

We all want a raise, but what if you didn’t have to wait for your boss to give you one? In this episode, we’re breaking down how to actually give yourself a raise without changing jobs, negotiating with HR, or picking up a side hustle. From canceling forgotten subscriptions to rethinking professional services, we're exposing the cash leaks hiding in plain sight and showing you how to reclaim money that's already yours. If you’re looking for a 2025 mid-year financial review project that will h...

When we published our book Cashing Out in 2022, we knew we were making bold claims about work, money, and freedom. What we didn’t know was just how fast the world would catch up to them. In this episode, we revisit our book 3 years after its release to reflect on the stories, predictions, and uncomfortable truths that still hold up in 2025. We also share what we’ve learned since, and why the book continues to resonate with people across different industries, life stages, and income levels. Yo...

This week’s episode is a rare one that we recorded the same day it’s released, because… well, life is happening fast. After taking a much-needed break, we returned to headlines that changed the tone of the summer and the temperature of the market. In this episode, we’re talking about how to manage your investments during times of global instability and uncertainty. This isn’t advice or hype, it’s our perspective, grounded in history, patterns, and what actually works. We’re not here to guess ...

Youth sports are not just sports anymore. They’re a $40 billion+ industry and in this episode, we’re getting all the way into it. We’re talking about the emotional pressure, the social expectations, the team group chats, the $75 photo packages that somehow still exist in 2025, and why nobody tells you the signup fee is just the beginning. Whether you're new to the world of cleats and concession stands or already halfway through a season with three backup uniforms and a mini mortgage in ...

In this episode, we’re talking about how to know when it’s REALLY time to go. Not when your manager makes it unbearable, not when the reorg finally hits, but when YOU decide that staying is costing more than it’s worth. We break down the three questions that have helped us walk away from “good” jobs and build a better life on the other side. We talk about what your job is teaching you (even when you’re not paying attention), how to tell if you have any say in your future there, and why asking...

Most money advice assumes you’re either bad at math or just need more discipline, but what if the real reason your budget isn’t working is because it was never designed for how you actually spend? In this episode, we revisit a section from our book Cashing Out that recently got new life thanks to a great piece written by our friend Leo Aquino for Business Insider. It’s all about the three emotional spending profiles we’ve seen over and over again: Fast Spenders, Financially Insecure, and what...

Every year, we set aside an episode just for new grads, and this year’s version is an evolved view of last year’s advice to “Get Paid”. Because let’s keep it a buck, the Class of 2025 is graduating into a mess. The job market is weird, AI is replacing entry-level work, internships aren’t converting, and employers say they’re hiring, but for what? Meanwhile, everything is expensive and everyone online is yelling about branding yourself by Tuesday. So in this episode, we’re flipping the script ...

Sometimes you need a little extra money, but what you don’t need is another boss, a second shift, or a business plan you’ll never finish. In this episode, we’re walking through some of the most overlooked ways to earn extra income. Everything from plasma donation, junk hauling, voiceovers, waiting in line, and a few others I can’t put in the description without attracting a bunch of bots. We’re challenging the idea that income only comes from jobs. We talk about the emotional (and somet...

This week’s episode is about decision-making and how to know what’s actually worth it when you work for yourself. We recorded this right after speaking at a conference in Jamaica where we walked through some of our own real-life crossroads as business owners with a group of entrepreneurs. The talk resonated so deeply, the only feedback we got was: “Can you just put this all on one page?” This is our answer to that. We’re talking about those high-stakes, low-certainty moments every entrepreneu...

It's the last Monday of Financial Literacy Month 2025, and unless you’ve been living under a rock or blissfully disconnected, you’ve probably heard the noise about tariffs lately. U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports are climbing as high as 145%, with threats to go even higher. And while it’s tempting to think that’s a political issue, the truth is tariffs effect your wallet and budget. In this episode, we’re breaking down what tariffs actually are, how they distort prices, and why understan...

This week, we’re breaking down bankruptcy in the way it should’ve been explained all along: without shame, without legal jargon, and without the “womp womp” energy we’ve all been taught to bring to it. You’ve probably heard of Chapter 7. Maybe even Chapter 13. But unless you’ve filed for bankruptcy, or know someone who has, you’ve likely never learned what it actually means. We kick things off with the viral rise of the “debt strike” trend on TikTok and Instagram, where people are publicly de...

What if we told you there are cities in the U.S. that will pay you to live there? In this episode, we're following up on our popular expat conversation with a deep dive into domestic relocation incentives. We’re talking cash grants, down payment assistance, tax breaks, bikes, and even golf memberships offered by places you may have never considered calling home. Think Jackson, Michigan. Pawnee City, Nebraska. Topeka, Kansas. Tulsa, Oklahoma. Yes, they’re real places, and they’re putting real ...

Most people aren’t neutral about the idea of living in a car, and that’s exactly why we needed to talk about it. This week, we dig into the stigma, structure, and stories behind van life. It’s not a guide on how to gut a Sprinter or stealth-camp in a Target parking lot, it’s a deeper exploration of what it means to live differently and why that still freaks people out. From the viral story of Dawn Robinson of En Vogue (yes, *that* Dawn) who shared that she’s been living in her car by choice f...

This week, we’re sharing 3 of our best tips on how to live on a single income. It's a topic that might feel distant, perhaps even undesirable, but for many, it's becoming an increasingly relevant concern. We've lived the single-income life by choice and by circumstance. It's not always pretty, but it can be done. And sometimes, being forced to tighten your belt is the exact kick in the pants you need to get your financial house in order. Whether you choose to live on one income as some kind o...

Links: Watch the 90-second trailer of Taste the Impact Watch the full-length "Taste the Impact" mini-doc nowRegister for the Shifting Wealth, Shaping Futures info session on March 26th Become a member of Invest for Better (it’s free!)This week’s episode is about something personal, political, and, up until recently, way too overlooked: food. We spend a lot of time talking about food, but not nearly enough time talking about how it shows up in our kitchens, grocery carts, or di...

This week, we dive headfirst into the very timely topic of expating. Is it just a fantasy fueled by tough times or is there something deeper driving this urge to GTFO? In this episode, we're exploring the layers of this question. We break down the different flavors of expating, from slow travel hacks that let you vibe abroad for a few months with zero paperwork (hello, Schengen Zone!) to the allure of Digital Nomad Visas for those of us who can work from anywhere with Wi-Fi and a decent...

Join a Shifting Wealth, Shaping Futures Circle today: https://investforbetter.org/swsf/ Not quite ready for a circle? Sign up for a free membership with Invest for Better: https://investforbetter.org/membership/Get your ticket to the Northeast FI Camp Women's Weekend: https://khbfinancial.com/northeastficamps/ For information about future, co-ed events, sign up for their email list: https://eastcoastfi.kit.com/adab4cc93cFor most of history, women weren’t just left out of wealth-building...

Are you scratching your head trying to understand Gen Z's approach to…life? You're not alone! This week, we’re exploring the fascinating and sometimes frustrating world of Gen Z finances, why traditional financial advice often misses the mark with this generation, and what actually resonates with them. Every generation thinks they had it hard. And to be fair, most of them did. But Gen Z? They’re becoming adults in a world that looks nothing like the one we grew up in. Between AI disrupting en...

This week, we’re talking about impact investing, which if we’re being honest, is a phrase we used to think was reserved for people who call their parents by their first names. Turns out, it’s one of the closest things we have to financial resistance (with receipts!). This episode drops on the last Monday of Black History Month 2025, a month that, for once, felt less performative. Not because there wasn’t Black history being made, there was, just like there is every day of the year…but because...

Is the magic really gone, or are we just over it? This week's episode is a Quick Dip, where we're side-eyeing some old-school markers of success. We thought about calling this the "end of an era" edition but it might be too soon...you tell us! Think childhood trips to Disney, that diamond ring you're 'supposed' to want, and even that climb up the corporate ladder. We're wondering if these traditions still mean what they used to in a world that's changing so fast. The data suggests somet...

This week marks a significant milestone: our 200th episode of the rich & REGULAR podcast! In this episode, we’re taking a moment to reflect, not just on what we've built, but on the path we took to get here. Here’s what we cover as we peel back the curtain on the podcasting process: Our most memorable/favorite episodes It's more than just talking; it's an investment. From the upfront costs of good equipment like decent mics and mixers to the ongoing financial decisions involved...

This week we’re talking about "late bloomers" — the "over 40, mid-life-ish, but don't-say-that-to-us" gang who are just now getting their financial life together. This was a requested episode so we're skipping the generic "just do it" advice and getting into the nitty-gritty of what it actually takes to build wealth when you're not starting in your 20s. We're discussing the psychological hurdles, the structural roadblocks, and how to create a financial plan that works for you, no matter what ...

This week’s episode is all about shopping bans and the no-spend trend. This month our social media feeds have been flooded with one thing: people swearing off shopping. Like, really swearing it off. We see everything from no-spend months, to shopping bans, and even boycotts. And we get it. After the consumerist frenzy of the holidays, that pull towards simplicity or a “less is more” approach almost feels…. revolutionary. We've been covering this topic for years, and this "new" trend i...

This week, we’re dissecting the art of the modern scam. We've all experienced the subtle unease of a pitch that just doesn’t feel right, but in an era where the line between marketing and deceit is dangerously thin, it’s important to stay aware so you don’t get hoodwinked and bamboozled. We Discuss: Why we need to stop confusing charm with legitimacyHow corporations are now using MLM tacticsWhy companies who use hard-sells aren’t actually interested in your problems.Why financial fraud ...

This week, we're joined by entrepreneur, speaker, and author, Anthony O'Neal. You may know him from his incredibly popular YouTube channel or, maybe, from his previous book, "Debt-Free Degree." But Anthony's back with a new book called "Take Your Seat at the Table," which is all about taking control of your life, money, and future. If you’re unfamiliar with his work, he’s not your typical financial guru. He’s a self-made entrepreneur who went from being homeless to building a 7-figure busine...

This week, we’re breaking down the top stories and trends that will shape how we all earn, spend, and invest our money in 2025. And we’re not just looking at the year ahead, we're confronting the messy reality of now. If you're feeling like the financial ground is shifting beneath your feet and like the old rules don't apply anymore, then this episode is for you. If you're tired of feeling like you're chasing trends instead of building a future, or if you're ready to take control of how you e...

Is your "purpose" making you anxious? Do you feel like everyone online is "living their best life" except for you? Then you've come to the right place. It's January and you're probably knee-deep in resolutions that may or may not last past the first week. But forget the trendy diets and the overly ambitious gym routines. This year, we're going deeper and talking about a purpose reboot - not the "new you" version fueled by fleeting motivation, but the kind built on self-awareness, intent...

This week we’re diving headfirst into the one word that can save your budget and your sanity: No Julien kicks things off with some personal stories about recent awkward moments when "friends" ask for money, which sets the stage for a much-needed conversation. For some of us, saying "no" can feel just plain wrong, especially during the season of giving. This isn't your typical "budget better" advice, we're going deep into why saying "no" is so dang hard. But we don’t stop there. We also discus...

The latest inflation report shows that grocery prices are back up, making something as basic as eating feel like a financial tightrope walk. So this week, we're rethinking how we define "good" food and making a case that the best meals can be both cheap and delicious by sharing 3 of our favorite cheap meals. Hopefully you walk away from this episode feeling slightly less guilty about that impulse takeout order (as long as you learn from it), inspired to rethink what's possible with your...

We’re still revisiting fundamentals and this week we’re asking: Is your emergency fund actually an emergency fund, or just a well-intentioned savings account collecting dust (and maybe a tiny bit of interest)? In this episode, we unpack the truth about financial emergencies and reveal the flawed logic behind the old ‘3-months of expenses’ rule. Let’s be honest, climate change, unexpected job losses, and ridiculously high repair costs have made the classic “cash only” emergency fund advi...

We took a mini-break (and you KNOW we needed it) but we're back, and today we're tackling the sacred cow of financial planning: BUY AND HOLD. Let's face it, investing isn't a spectator sport and the pandemic proved that even the most "set-it-and-forget-it" advice can get messy. Plus research shows investors are holding stocks for less time than ever before. So this week, we’re asking if the classic "buy and hold" strategy is still the cornerstone of financial wisdom, or has the rise of ...

This week, we’re unpacking the surprisingly trendy world of underconsumption. Is it a Gen Z TikTok trend? A millennial coping mechanism? A wise old soul's secret weapon? The answer is YES to all of the above. In this episode, we cover: How to avoid overspending this holiday season on food and gifts. We even share our hard-won lessons on dealing with impulsive buying, managing the expectations of our loved ones, and teaching our son to approach spending with intention (no, we didn't always get...

This week, we’re unpacking the raw emotions and anxieties that followed the recent election. We explore the stark reality of a country deeply divided, not just politically, but also in terms of our visions for the future. This election wasn't just about who won. It was about a country that, frankly, feels more like it's been severed in half than unified. It’s a deep, messy reality and we question the easy labels and simplistic narratives that often dominate the political conversat...

It’s 2024, and inflation is the number one concern for voters. Today we’re unpacking both candidates' distinct approaches to addressing it. We discuss Kamala Harris's and Donald Trump's plans for tackling the rising cost of living, taking a closer look at their proposals and the underlying political and economic philosophies that drive them. Prepare yourself for an interesting and honestly, maybe slightly frustrating, discussion of how the election could impact your wallet and your futu...

In this special solo episode, Julien and Dr. Preston Cherry discuss the intersection of financial planning and personal well-being. Dr. Cherry brings a unique perspective and combines the rigor of financial expertise with the nuanced understanding of a therapist. He's here to tackle those awkward conversations with your partner about finances, the "financial harmony" that's more than just a feel-good buzzword, and how to find true satisfaction in a world obsessed with wealth. Dr. Cherry know...

This week, we're returning to our "Quick Dip" format, where we explore three timely topics, giving you the need-to-know without the fluff. First up, is cord-cutting still worth it? Julien shares his long history of cord-cutting, which began long before he met Kiersten, and she shares her own journey to embracing a cable-less lifestyle. We discuss the pros and cons of traditional cable versus streaming, and how the streaming wars have made cord-cutting more complex than ever. But, ultimately,...

This episode is for anyone who's ever said, "I wish I could just save more money" because we're spilling the tea on how it’s done (and more specifically, how to automate it) PAY YOURSELF FIRST. Yes, it sounds simple, but it's the kind of simple that's surprisingly difficult to pull off when you're battling bills, student loans, and a dozen ads featuring the latest shiny thing every time you look up. That's where automation comes in. We're talking about setting up systems that make sav...

This week, we're unpacking the murky waters of pay cuts and those awkward conversations where your boss wants you to do the same work for less. It's an increasingly common brutal reality, but you don't have to just roll over and take it. We explore the different types of pay cuts: those forced upon you (like when you're forced back into the office) and those you choose (like a lateral move for experience). We'll also get real about the sneaky ways pay cuts happen – from slow-burning merit-ba...

This week we're diving into the world of NIL, or Name, Image, and Likeness, and how this new, HUGE opportunity will impact youth sports. Think you're not impacted by NIL? Think again! This episode is for athletes, parents, coaches, and anyone who wants to understand how NIL is changing the game. And if you've got a kid with any sort of athletic talent, this is definitely a conversation you need to be having. The point is - this ain't your mama's college experience. This is about...

We’re all familiar with the pressure to make extra cash, but what if your side hustle wasn't just extra work, but an opportunity to tap into your existing skills? This week we’re discussing long-term side hustles with one of Kiersten’s best friends, Lauren. Lauren's side hustle (teaching fitness classes) evolved into a passion project that fuels her spirit and keeps her bank account healthy. In fact, after 12 years, it’s been the longest "job" she's ever had, and it's helped her weather...

Do you ever wonder why you buy things you don't need? This episode explores the fascinating (and sometimes alarming) ways culture shapes our budgets. We’re talking to Dr. Marcus Collins, who is a scholar of the hidden messages of consumption, a marketing professor at University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, and the author of For The Culture. He takes us on a journey into the heart of consumerism, explaining how brands create religions, how the people we admire influence our sp...

This week, Jackie Cummings Koski, author of "F.I.R.E. For Dummies," sits down with us to share her personal experience and offer some wisdom for anyone, no matter how late they are in the game, to begin building their financial future. This episode isn't your typical FIRE fantasy. As a Black, divorced, single mom who retired with $1.3 million at age 49, Jackie's got the receipts and the real talk about what it looks like to navigate personal finances when your story is a little more com...

Are you dreaming of owning your own business? Maybe you picture yourself running a bustling coffee shop or a sleek fitness studio in the perfect area of your town. Franchising often seems like the shortcut to that dream – a pre-packaged path to success, where the brand and the system are already in place. But, as with most things in life, the reality is a little less glamorous than the Instagram-filtered facade. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of franchising. From the init...

You've heard of the Snowball and Avalanche methods, but which one is right for you? In this episode, we discuss the nuances of these popular debt payoff strategies, exploring the psychology behind each and how they might affect your financial journey. We're not here to shame you about debt. Let’s be real, in this economy, it's practically a badge of honor to have survived the last few years without getting buried in debt. But, when you're ready to take charge, knowing the right approach can ...

Is it better to focus on building wealth (net worth) or making sure you have enough money coming in to cover your bills (cash flow)? This question represents a classic financial tug-of-war, and the answer, as you might have guessed, is both. So this week, we’re tackling both sides of the argument and reminding you why you don’t have to choose. Cash-producing assets like rental properties, dividend stocks, and business ownership allow you to generate cash in the short term while still ...

This week we’re talking about the stock market's latest tantrum and what it means for YOU. (Spoiler: maybe not as much as you think!) 🤫 In this episode we’re breaking down the psychology of fear and hype, and talking about how to avoid getting caught up in the noise while building a long-term strategy that makes you more confident and less stressed. Takeaways: An overvalued stock is one where the price is higher than its actual worth based on its current performance and future expectations.Ma...

As the world continues to change at a rapid pace, we’re starting to transition away from money being a taboo subject and more and more people are being encouraged to talk about money. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) talk about the thin line between being transparent and being tacky and how to navigate this new normal of openness. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e37shownotes Connect with us in the Success Achievers...

Roboadvisors were one of the reasons we fundamentally knew money and investing was changing forever and the pace of change would be faster than anyone could imagine. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) talk about what they are, how they work, how they differ from traditional advisors and a few recommendations on getting started. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e36shownotes Connect with us in the Success Achievers Comm...

People always talk about buyers remorse, but what about the other side of that coin? In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) run down the list of things they regret NOT buying and if there’s a way to recognize when you’re being CHEAP (vs. frugal) in the moment or if hindsight is truly 20/20 when it comes to financial regrets. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e35shownotes Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community where w...

In the spirit of awkward Thanksgiving conversations, this week’s episode is all about Success Guilt. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) break down why some people feel less inclined to share when things are going well, and what impact that has on others. If you’ve ever felt that ping of regret immediately after sharing a financial win, this episode is for you. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e34shownotes ...

If you were to survey 1000 people to identify a feeling they associate with their debt, most of them would say “shame”. While shame can be a productive tool for some, it doesn’t work for everyone. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) are talking about the relationship between shame and debt and how using shame as a motivator can actually work against you. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e33shownotes Connect with ...

Recent enhancements to technology have changed every aspect of how we manage our financial lives; particularly in managing credit. Most people are familiar with lucrative credit card offers and loyalty programs. But today, there are even more exciting features and benefits to lure in more customers. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) talk about how credit has changed over the years, what's changed in credit scoring, some emerging trends and how it all can im...

They say you can tell what kind of ideals a person has based on who their heroes are, but what happens when you start to disagree with the people you admire most? At first you might be compelled to try to convince them to see your side, but if they can’t be swayed...then what? In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss what it means to outgrow a financial hero and how you can recognize when it’s happening. Full show notes and resources can be fo...

It’s natural to identify with the places in your life where you spend the most time and receive the most feedback, but failing to realize that who you are is not the same as what you do can be an expensive endeavor. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) unpack identity and how it can be a powerful filter in the world that either increases your earning potential or decreases it. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e30shownotes Con...

In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss a recent article from the Nov/Dec issue of Success Magazine. The article features an interview with HGTV star Tarek El-Moussa where he shares his advice for new flippers, as well as where to focus your efforts if you want to protect the profit margin on your flips. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e29shownotes Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community where we host m...

“Buy low, sell high” is one of those money phrases that gets tossed around often...but how do you know if a low point is the lowest point? Or conversely, how do you know when a high point is at its highest and therefore know when to invest or when to sell? In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) explore what it means to be in a bull market and what you can do to ensure you’re not too late to the party. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.r...

The amount of fraud continues to rise among market and economic uncertainty. And after recently watching the Amazon Prime docuseries LulaRich, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) decided to tackle coping with financial fraud. In this episode, they discuss some common grifts as well as red flags and what to do to protect yourself if you’ve been defrauded. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/e27shownotes Connect with us in the Success Achie...

We’re in the middle of the Great Resignation, and more employees are citing burnout as the reason for leaving. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss the latest trends and reports related to burnout, and the financial implications of “rage-quitting” or leaving a job abruptly before you have another plan. From healthcare to tax and credit implications, there are few things you should be thinking about before you make a short-term decision that has longer-term f...

“Competitive” is one of those charged words that people either identify with or they don’t. It’s a word that is used to positively describe winners and negatively describe people who aren’t good team players, all at once. On this week’s episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) tackle the question: do competitive people make more money? Listen in for a nuanced discussion of how your competitiveness can either benefit or harm your financial journey. Full show n...

Goal setting is the cornerstone of wealth building, but what should you expect when you’re in between goals? What should you be planning for? In this episode Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss the financial, emotional and psychological effects of achieving financial milestones. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/listen Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community where we host monthly training on a range of topics! I...

They said when the student is ready, the teacher will appear! In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) talk about their favorite ways to learn about money. From books, to podcasts and even movies, there’s no shortage of modern day “teachers”. Pick one and then get your hands dirty and put all that knowledge into practice. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/listen Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community ...

If your fear of losing money is the thing that’s keeping you stuck, this episode is for you. Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss loss aversion and offer tips on how you can start to teach your brain to react differently to losses and more strongly to gains. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/listen Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community where we host monthly training on a range of topics! It’s completely free to join ...

Research suggests that the average millionaire has seven streams of income, and in this episode Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss some of the overlooked benefits of having multiple sources of income. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/listen Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community where we host monthly training on a range of topics! It’s completely free to join and there are opportunities for networking, course...

There is a natural conflict between wanting to be better at something and trying to minimize expenses - how do you know when it’s time to level-up and pay to play? We all love free stuff, but in this episode Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss how they decide when to spend money on a community, course or program. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/listen Connect with us in the Success Achievers Community where we host...

Money is the leading cause of arguments in relationships and a primary factor of why half of marriages end up in divorce. In this episode, Julien and Kiersten Saunders (@richandregular) discuss an article by Emma Johnson in the September/October issue of Success Magazine about the most common financial disagreements that drive couples apart and offer some practical tips to resolve them. Full show notes and resources can be found here: www.richandregular.com/listen Connect with us in t...