Couple Money Podcast: Build Your Marriage and Wealth Together

With over 17 million Americans victims of identity theft in 2014 alone, it’s even more important to learn how to protect yourself. David Rubinstein from Credit Shout shares the tools and resources you can use to make it harder for thieves to steal your personal information.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/How_to_Protect_Yourself_Against_Identitiy_Theft.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Protecting Yourself Against Identity  Theft Identity theft is a popular topic in the news. Whether it’s data breaches, tax fraud, or old fashion dumpster diving, it’s even more important to be smart with your personal information. In this episode, David Rubinstein, owner of CreditShout and CreditForums is here to help. We’ll look at: * how to better protect yourself offline and online * the difference between fraud alert & credit freeze * whether or not identity protection services are worth the costs I hope you enjoy! Helping Sort Finances with Credit Shout Special thanks again to David for sharing his tips and research. Please check out CreditShout. David and his team have some great information, not just on credit cards, but also some detailed articles on finances including: * Why Identity Theft Insurance May Not Be Worth the Cost * How Two Factor Authentication Helps Protect You From Identity Theft Additional Resources on Fighting Against Identity Theft * IdentityTheft.gov * How to Protect Your Identity * Creating Strong Passwords * What To Do If Someone Steals Your Identity * FBI Futurist Shares His Top 5 Tips For Protecting Your Identity Online

Sarah from High Fiving Dollars discusses tips on how you two can get more open and comfortable talking about money as a couple. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/Dealing_with_Money_as_a_Couple_with_High_Fiving_Dollars.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_pinterest=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Dealing with Money as a Couple Welcome to a bonus episode! I had such a great time talking with Sarah from High Fiving Dollars. Besides sharing her experiences working abroad, she some great and real stories about the psychology of money and becoming more comfortable with talking about it as a couple. Since it didn’t have too much to do with our original focus of working abroad, I split the interview. So here it is. Hope you enjoy!

Want to live abroad? Sarah Li Cain from High Fiving Dollars shares tips on how you can find work and handling your finances as a global citizen. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/Finances_and_Reality_of_Living_Aboard.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” social_pinterest=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. What You Need to Know About Working Abroad Have you ever wanted to live in another country? One of the popular reasons given for why people retire early is to travel more, but did you know it’s possible for you to live abroad without being independently wealthy? And you can do it with little ones? Sarah Li Cain from High Fiving Dollars is doing it now with her husband and their young son. And she’s here to help give the numbers and realities of living as an expat. In this episode we’ll get into: * how she found a career that allows her live abroad * how finances can vary with every country * tips on how you can get started So if you’re itching to travel, but you’re short of funds, this is your episode.  

Learn how you can protect your family with the right insurance coverage. Jennifer Fitzgerald, CEO and co-founder of PolicyGenius, helps explains the hows and why of disability and life insurance.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CMS3E13_How_to_Protect_Your_Family_with_Disability_and_Life_Insurance_with_Policy_Genius.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” social_pinterest=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Why Insurance Matters Insurance is one of those things  hardly anybody is excited about. You’re paying money for something you hopefully never have to use. Insane, right? It’s kind of weird how it works, but the main reason it’s important to get insurance is peace of mind – for yourself, your family. Protection for the Unexpected Over the past year, we’ve had reminders that the unexpected can come up. While we hardly have control on things of that matter, that doesn’t mean we just let stuff happen. Taking a little bit time now, while you can, gives you an ability to help protect your family. To help you get it done, Jennifer Fitzgerald, CEO and Co-founder of PolicyGenius is sharing her expertise. In this episode, we’ll get into: * what disability insurance is and why you need it * how to figure out whether term or whole life insurance is best * questions to go over to know much life insurance coverage to get So if you have a few minutes set aside some time this week to talk things out and make sure your family is protected should something happen. Becoming a Policy Genius with Insurance If you’re looking for some calculators and insurance resources, please check out PolicyGenius. Their mission is: “To get people the insurance coverage they need and make them feel good about it.” I think they’re doing a great job helping people understand the hows and why behind insurance. I’m also grateful that their CEO, Jennifer Fitzgerald took time out to come on the podcast and share her expertise. It shows their commitment from top to bottom. There’s a ton of great resources right there on their site, including  a guide for disability insurance and an insurance check-up tool to help you spot any holes in your coverage.  

Buying a house soon? Jon White,  financial coach and author of A Tale of Two Houses, shares tips on how you can find the right house for you and your budget! [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/How_to_Buy_a_House_with_Jon_White.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” social_pinterest=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. What You Need to Know About Buying a House Buying a house is usually one of the biggest purchases couples make. Add the financial paperwork of getting a mortgage and it can get complicated quickly. So it’s really important to make sure you’re ready for this leap before you sign the papers. When we were hunting for our house we did some legwork, but it was worth it. We bought a house a couple of months ago and we’re really happy with it. Are you thinking about buying house soon? Then please save episode! How to Buy a House  Jon White is on the show to share his stories about buying two homes. In this episode we’ll get into: * the real estate and financial myths that influenced him to by his place * his biggest mistake when he bought his first house * how they found a house that is a blessing and not a burden I hope this episode helps you by a house Jon White’s Tale of Two Houses He’s documented the process for both in his new book, A Tale of Two Houses. Jon goes into detail about the mistakes he made when he purchased his condo in 2006 and what he and his wfe did right with their current home.  Podcast listeners who pick up his book can get some bonus material including ways you can start and build up your down payment and audio recording of him and his wife about their journey.  You can get it all here. Resources to Help You Buy a House If you’re looking for tips and stories from others who have bought a house, here are some podcast shows and articles to check out: * How to Buy a House (And Not Regret It) * Run the Numbers Before You Buy a House * Buying a House: Deciding on What You Want * How Much House Can You Really Afford?

Looking to take on some DIY projects around your house? John Malecki, former Pittsburgh Steeler and now custom furniture builder, has tips to help your create a home workshop without breaking your budget.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CM_S3E11_DIY_101_Building_Your_Own_Workshop_at_Home_with_John_Malecki.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_pinterest=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. DIY Builder 101 Being a homeowner can be a pain in the butt when you have to make repairs, but there is a certain amount of fun and freedom you can have with building. Having a home workshop can allow you turn from mild mannered software developer into a maker. Or at least that’s the case in our house. When my husband I are were looking at houses we knew we’d be taking on some projects. Neither one of us had any real experience, but hey they do it on HGTV, so why not? Happy to report so far we have all our limbs still and are slowly making this house into our home. We’re hoping to take our skills to the next level and start really building. If you’re in the same boat, I got some good news. John Malecki, former Pittsburgh Steeler and now custom furniture builder, has tips and stories to help. In this episode we look at: * the benefits of building * what tools you need to get your home workshop up * resources to help you tackle your build projects I hope you enjoy! John Malecki: Custom Furniture Builder Born and raised in suburban Pittsburgh, John spent the early years of his life chasing athletics. After a 4 year career in the NFL, John turned his focus and work ethic from the field to the workshop. His goals shifted to building custom furniture for family and friends and acquiring the skills to run a thriving business. Based out of Homestead, PA an area rich in history. In the town that formerly forged America, and served as the center for steel manufacturing, John and his team use reclaimed industrial design to show their love for sustainable, well made goods that can serve people for generations to come. The team creates an assortment of products from dining sets to living room tables, custom shelving, beds, and everything in between. John has some wonderful posts and videos about his projects and advice for those looking to build themselves. * 3 Tables You Can Build With Only 2 Tools * 5 Ways To Take Your DIY Projects To The Next Level * Building Your Own Workshop – Step 2 : The Skills He’s very approachable and generous. You can find him online: * Instagram * Twitter * Facebook

Learn how you can grow your wealth by changing your money mindset and improve your habits. Jen Hemphill from Her Money Matters also shares how to work together as a couple when you have different money styles. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/How_to_Master_Your_Finances_By_Changing_Your_Money_Mindset_.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Improving Money Mindsets and Habits Our habits can make or break on finances. Do you pay yourself first and set aside money each paycheck for personal savings or investing? With busy lives, it’s easy to miss some things. And as important as savings is, let’s be honest – it doesn’t usually show up on our to do lists. But if we are in the habit of saving – either by automating or manually moving that money, we’re going to build wealth. So if you’re looking to change your habits and improve your mindset with money, Jen Hemphill is here to help. In this episode we’re going to get into: * how we pick up our money habits * dealing with differences within a marriage *  how you can be motivated to handle your finances better Her Money Matters with Jen Hemphill While some struggle with saving money, it was a habit she developed early. Please check her out along with the Her Money Matters podcast at JenHemphill.com. Thank You for Your Support Couple Money Podcast is made possible because of listeners like you. Every tweet, facebook like, and pin you make gets the word out. Thank you for your support!  

Looking to give back to your community in a bigger way? Dorethia Kelly shares her volunteer experience working as treasurer of the Detroit Parent Network and tips on how to start a non-profit.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CM_S3E9_How_to_Start_Your_Own_Non-Profit.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Giving Back and Volunteering I know as a personal finance podcast we go over how you use money to pay the bills and take care of our loved ones, which are good things to keep an eye on, but I also believe life is about more. Giving back to others, to the community fills another need. And yes sometimes that means donating money to charity and causes that matter to us. But sometimes our giving becomes more personal and involved with volunteering. There are so many wonderful opportunities out there where you can directly give and participate in. Finding that connection can incredibly fulfilling and meaningful. But what if there isn’t that perfect fit. What do you then? Starting a Non-Profit For some who have the time, energy, and passion, the answer is start a non-profit that addresses those specific needs in the community and aligns with their values. How do you do begin one from the ground up? In this episode, Dorethia Kelly joins us to discuss: * how she got into the world of non-profits and how you can too * she also has tips for those looking to start their own * she’ll go over the pitfalls to avoid So if your heart is moving you to get out there and do more, I hope this episode helps. Show Notes * Detroit Parent Network * 501(c) Application – IRS * The Money Chat More Resources to Help * Raising Money Smart and Generous Kids * Giving in Times of Disaster * How to Give More as a Family

Personal Capital released their State of Spending report, highlighting how the average American uses their money. We review the highlights and how you can slash your bills. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CM_S3E8_State_of_American_Spending_with_Personal_Capital.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Watching Our Spending We’re halfway through March already. Now that the dust has settled with the move, we’re figuring our our new monthly budget. The good news is electric and water bills were within our estimates. The bad news is we were hit with almost $2,000 of expenses at the beginning of month. We dipped into savings to cover them. The bright side is we took care of two big items on our fixer-upper list (just wish the timing was a little better). Personal Capital’s State of American Spending I admit it can be fun to peek and see how others are spending so we’re going to look at glance at how the average American is spending their cash. We’ll also look at ways we can slash them without living like a pauper. Personal Capital, one of my favorite tools to track our accounts,  analyzed almost 150 million transactions and recently released a State of Spending report. Two huge expenses they highlight in the report – cars and food – caught my eye. Saving on Cars According to Personal Capital, the average America spends about $725/month to own maintain, insure, and gas one car. There’s two ways you can tackle this and get that number down. First up is the car payment itself. Having a car loan, or for some couples two can eat up a huge chunk of your money. We paid off our car loan early and now pay with cash when we need a replacement. Contrary to what some people worry about, we’ve gotten some reliable cars through Craigslist and I sold one of ours through it. With the web there are so many ways you can research and find the right model for your particular needs. In some cities, you may be able to dump the car altogether.  Carpooling, taxis, and transportation have been around for while and work, but now there are different takes on it. Companies like Uber, Lyft, and Zipcar can give you the mobility that you want, but not having the maintenance and overhead of car ownership. Thoughts on Saving Money I’d love to hear from you. What are your two biggest expenses? Do you have any tips on how to save while still having room in the budget for fun?

Discover some wonderful European inspired getaways here in the U.S.! Audrey, from L’Eurocana shares tips on how she and her husband have managed to keep date nights fun and frugal. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CM_S3E7_Frugal_European_American_Adventures_and_Getaways_with_LEurocana.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Fun and Frugal Getaways Last show Audrey Michelle was sharing how she and her husband were working through things as their finances transitioning from a rock star life to something more down to earth. While a big picture view can help you become more content with big changes, it’s also helpful to create routines and habits that help things along in a practical sense that still resonates with who you are. For Audrey it meant finding ways to grab what they loved about Europe and incorporating into their lives. It was mindset of savoring what was around without spending a ton of money. With life off the road, they had to be a little more careful with their spending. One of the more popular parts of Audrey’s site, L’Eurocana, is a $50 series where Audrey and her husband spend a day relaxing and exploring on the cheap. * A European Day in LA for $50 or Less * A One Night European Fix in Las Vegas * A Petite Parisian Getaway for Two in Glendale for $50 or Less Slowing Down and Savoring Dinner Together Along with these road trips, the two like to unwind and take some time to make their day to day a little more special. One of their first big purchases after they bought their home was a dining table. Audrey and her husband love to entertain guest, but they also view dinner is an occasion to connect and enjoy. When it’s dinner time, they pull out the good china, have some music playing, and settle into a conversation. No distractions, just them.

Audrey from L’Eurocana shares how you two can find contentment through life changes. She shares how she and her husband are working through their new lives together in CA from a life of traveling as a sound engineer with artists such as Lady Gaga.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/Finding_Contentment_in_Life_with_LEurocana.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Finding Contentment as a Couple  Audrey is on the show as she and her husband are in the middle of a huge financial, career, life transition. He was working as a sound engineer, a job that took him all around the world living the rock star life. Now, things are slowing down and he is about to embark on another career. One that is less lucrative, but rewarding. In part one of this two part show, we get into: * talking through big changes * finding balance when making huge financial changes * appreciating what matters most Working together can be wonderful, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. I hope you enjoy! Life on the Road with L’Eurocana Have you ever visited a site and could tell just from reading it that there was more to it than just the pictures and posts? L’Eurocana is one of them. There are a ton of sites that get into fashion tips or decorating your house in a more European style, but Audrey knew when she started the site that she wanted the site to be more. Audrey is about bringing that European flair and sensibility so you can savor each moment. She has a fantastic series on European style getaways here in the States so you can have a beautiful and memorable weekend without breaking the bank. Some of my personal favorites include: * 10 Tips to Shop Craigslist for European Home Decor  * Six Books Every Eurocana Should Have * Petite Fiction: Coffee Break   Join us next show when Audrey gives tips on making your date nights romantic and how to slow down and enjoy life as a couple.

Want to travel together, but don’t know where to start? Derek and Carrie, from Better Conversations on Money and Marriage, share how they were able to simplify their lives and finances to travel the country as a family.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/How_to_Simplify_Travel_the_Country_and_Have_Better_Conversations_on_Money_and_Marriage_with_Derek_and_Carrie.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Traveling the Country Together How many times have you thought about traveling? Not just a weekend getaway, but really seeing another place? What’s stopping you? For many couples there are so many responsibilities, bills, and obligations. Next year. If you’re ready to stop thinking about some day and start planning for your own adventure, Derek and Carrie’s Olsen’s story is up your alley. These two along with their beautiful toddler Amelie took a cross country trip with their trusty travel trailer. In this episode, we’ll get into: * how Derek and Carrie simplified their lives to make this adventure happen * how you can purge and shed your stuff * how the two of you can achieve your goal before the end of the year I hope you enjoy!  

Johnny and Joanna from Our Freaking Budget are the special guests today and they have some great tips and stories about how to decide which is the best spot for you. We did it! After a ton of showings, we have sold out townhouse. We closed on the place a couple of weeks ago and we’ve bought a new place. This move was huge for us so that’s why there was a break in the podcast. And I think the timing is better because today’s topic is all about moving. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CMP_S3E4_Moving_Tips_to_Save_You_Money_and_Reduce_Stress_with_Our_Freaking_Budget.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Whether it’s across town or the country, packing up your stuff and getting things ready can be challenge. Johnny and Joanna from Our Freaking Budget are the special guests today. In this episode we also get into: *  how to decide if it’s better to hire movers or do it yourself *  how moving changed from when it was just Johnny and Joanna to moving across country with little ones in tow *  how to save money on your next move I hope you enjoy! Johnny and Joanna from Our Freaking Budget When I first start reading their site, , they were gathering information about finding a forever home with their 50 State Project. It was kind of a cool way to crowd-source of research from those living in the area. Besides their moves, Johnny and Joanna have some wonderful tips and stories about becoming debt free and working together with finances. * How We Made Money Off Our Baby * How We’re Keeping Our Budgeting System Simple * 10 Financial Gut Check Questions Moving Tips to Save You Time and Money If you’re thinking about moving or getting ready to, here are some resources to make the move easier. * How to Save Big on Your Next Move * Should You Hire Movers or Do It Yourself?

Want to retire early and be financially independent? Todd Tressider from Financial Mentor shows how you can create a path to wealth and ignore the noise. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CMP_S3E3_Financial_Independence_with_Todd_Tressider_the_Financial_Mentor.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Finding Your Path to Financial Independence While there are definitely circumstances which can stop us, there are many couples who could become financially independent. Not saying they have perfect circumstances, but they do have an opportunity to make it. We have Todd Tressider, founder of Financial Mentor, to help us out. He’ll share how you can gain a deeper understanding beyond the headline grabbing noise out there. In this episode, we also get into: * how to work together as a couple to become financially independent * why so many budgets fail * dispels some of the myths and misconceptions that can harm your finances Hope you enjoy! Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Meet Todd Tressider, Financial Mentor Todd Tressider isn’t  your usual personal finance writer.  Many bloggers and columists have documented their journey, either starting when they are heavily in debt or when they’ve decided to begin to build their wealth. Todd was financially independent when he began writing. He was able to retire at 35 because he followed the principles and advice he gives on Financial Mentor. There are plenty of resources including in-depth articles, his podcast, books, and courses. Some of my personal favorites: * 12 Tips To Build Wealth For Early Retirement * How Anyone Can Retire In 10 Years (or Less) * 52 Weeks To Financial Freedom

Ready to quit your job and start your own business? Steve Chou, Founder of My Wife Quit Her Job and co-founder of Bumblebee Linens, shares how you can build a business from home.  [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/couplemoney/CM_S3E2_How_to_Quit_Your_Job_and_Still_Make_Money.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Starting a Business from Home When we had Joe from Stacking Benjamins on last week, he mentioned that cutting back on expenses can only go so far. Earning more can be a powerful way to speed up your goals. This week we’re having Steve Chou, founder of My Wife Quit Her Job, discuss, well….how his wife was able to quit her job. Not only was she unhappy with her career, she knew that we wanted to be a stay at home mom. She also wanted to make sure the family’s finances would be able to handle the shift. In this episode we get into: * testing the waters before launching a business * how to manage a business while you’re still working full-time * resources you can use to make this leap Hope you enjoy! Subscribe to Couple Money Podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, or copy this link to use with a podcatcher of your choice. You can also find me hanging out on Twitter and Facebook. Meet Steve Chou, Founder of My Wife Quit Her Job Before Steve and Jennifer got married, she told him that she wanted to stay home when they had kids. After she became pregnant they set out to start a business that would allow her to quit her job, but still provide income. In its first year Bumblebee Linens was able to replace her $100k salary! While either one of them had experience opening or running a business, Steve and Jennifer were able to build one that allowed her to stay with the kids. Steve documented the process on My Wife Quit Her Job including: * what tools worked (and what didn’t) work for them * a start-up guide for new entrepreneurs * new developments that make opening an online store even easier You can also catch his podcast to get interviews with entrepreneurs in different industries and find out their systems and workflows. More Resources to Starting a Business If you’re looking to build or grow an income source:   * Using Your Creativity to Launch Your Career * How to Start a Side-Hustle with Fiverr * Develop a Money Making Hobby